Key insights into daily life in Spain: registration in Padrón, N.I.E. number, schools, transport, safety, and lifestyle.

Residency Registration for Residents

The Padrón Municipal de Habitantes is the municipal register of residents maintained by local town halls.
Registration isn’t mandatory, but it's highly beneficial as it confirms your residency and grants access to many public services.
By registering, you can obtain a health card, enroll children in school, apply for social assistance, or receive local discounts.
To register, simply visit the town hall with your passport and either a rental contract or property deed.
A few days later, you'll receive a Certificate of Residency – Certificado de Empadronamiento.

Permanent Stay and Documentation

Individuals spending more than 183 days a year in Spain should apply for residency (Residencia).
The application requires proof of income, private health insurance, and a passport.
Pensioners can present the S1 form from ZUS or NFZ.
Once residency is secured, you can access public healthcare and local benefits.
An N.I.E. number, the essential identification for foreigners in Spain, is necessary for all formalities.

Schools and Education

The education system in Spain is free and compulsory for children aged 6 to 16.
Public schools provide education in Spanish, and in some regions, also in regional languages such as Valencian.
Children from abroad are easily accepted and often have additional Spanish language classes.
Private and international schools are also available, with instruction in English, German, or French.
Tuition in such schools ranges from 4,000 to 12,000 euros annually, depending on the program and location.

Transportation and Communication

Public transport in Spain is well-developed and punctual.
In larger cities, buses, trams, and metro services are available, with tickets costing around 1.50 euros.
High-speed AVE trains and local Renfe Cercanías connections operate between cities.
In tourist regions like Costa Blanca, trams and bus lines are popular for connecting coastal towns.
Drivers from Poland can use their Polish driving license without the need for exchange.
If planning a longer stay, you can re-register your car with Spanish plates, requiring a registration tax and an ITV inspection.

Safety, Pets, and Lifestyle

Spain is among the safest countries in Europe.
The crime rate is low, and enforcement agencies are efficient.
The Policía Nacional, Guardia Civil, and Policía Local ensure safety in cities and on roads.
Nonetheless, as in any tourist country, it's wise to watch out for pickpockets in large cities and at beaches.

If you plan to move with pets, you need an animal passport, a microchip, and an up-to-date rabies vaccination.
Many restaurants and beaches in Spain are pet-friendly, especially along the Costa Blanca.

The lifestyle in Spain is relaxed, sociable, and balanced.
Spaniards value conversations, shared meals, and spending time with family.
The tapas culture, café gatherings, and local fiestas make life here a daily celebration of life's little pleasures.