Before you leave
Permit route, criminal records, apostilles, sworn translations, healthcare cover.
Guide
Moving to Spain: the legal checklist
A practical checklist of the legal steps that a move to Spain involves, in the order they actually need to happen.
Informational guide. This page is explanatory. Advice on your specific situation is given in consultation.
Who this is for
- Anyone planning a move
- Clients wanting to prepare before instructing a lawyer
On arrival
NIE, padrón registration, TIE appointment, bank prerequisites, lease signature.
First year
Tax residence assessment, driving licence exchange, renewals calendar, family registrations.
Get legal guidance on your case.
A confidential consultation with a Spanish-qualified, English-speaking lawyer — in person in Madrid or by video.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the padrón and why does it matter?
- It is your municipal registration. It conditions access to healthcare and schooling and is evidence of effective residence used later for nationality.
- Can I drive on my foreign licence?
- For a limited period, after which exchange or a Spanish test may be required depending on your country. Worth resolving early.