Registration is not just an administrative procedure.

Registering in the municipal census (Padrón) is not merely an administrative formality; it is a legal obligation in Spain with consequences for both citizens and local administrations.

The Padrón: A fundamental tool.

The Padrón is more than just a record of residents. It is a fundamental tool for local administration, as it gathers essential information about the municipality’s inhabitants. The data from the Padrón is used to calculate the population of a municipality, directly influencing the distribution of political representation and economic resources.

Recently, the Official State Gazette (BOE) reaffirmed the obligation to be registered in the municipality where one habitually resides, as regulated by Article 63 of Royal Decree 1690/1986, dated July 11.

Failure to comply with this regulation may result in financial penalties.

Although this regulation has been in place for decades, it remains in force and serves as the foundation for the administrative register known as the Padrón.

In essence, if you live in Spain, you must be listed in the Padrón of the municipality where you spend most of your time.