Moving address in Spain: changing important paperwork

Whenever you move house there is always a never ending list of tasks that have to be completed before you can settle into your new home and fully relax.Some jobs are arduous: packing and cleaning, a few can be fun: working out where the best local bar is, and there are others that are just important: the personal admin.

In Spain the administration required for moving house differs slightly to what is essential in other European countries. If you find it difficult to negotiate Spanish bureaucracy and the official departments that process important paperwork here then make sure you run through a checklist with your property agent or lawyer for advice.

When changing address in Spain you should consider the following:

Registration (empadronamiento)

It is important to formalise a change of address in Spain and this should be logged with your local municipal registration office. A list of documents will be required to complete this procedure and the process varies from region to region.

Utilities

Don’t forget to cancel all payments for utilities on your old property including the internet. If there are services set up in the new property but in the previous owner’s name, it should be a simple matter to transfer the bills into your name by speaking directly to the provider.

NIE & Passport

Your official identity number, your NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero ) will need to be updated, and it would be advisable to change your passport data if the new property is your main home.

Taxes

There’s no escaping the tax man! Your new address should be logged with the tax office: Agencia Tributaria.

Driving Licence

For those with a Spanish driving licence, make sure that you notify the official body: Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT). The process is free of charge and only requires a document proving your new/current address.

Bank Account

Visit your branch in person or online, and make sure they have your up to date details in full.

At Altavista we are always happy to help our clients to double check what administration work is needed when moving house and to point them in the right direction when important paperwork should be filed. When you buy a new home in Spain or change your Spanish address Altavista will be close at hand to assist with every essential element of the move.

About Altavista Property

Altavista Property is a professional real estate agency that represents a portfolio of exclusive modern properties located in Marbella, Puerto Banús and the surrounding area. For more information please visit our website or contact us at: www.altavistaproperty.com