How to register on the padrón in Mallorca
The padrón is your town hall’s record of where you normally live. In Mallorca you register with the ajuntament for your actual address. Palma’s instructions are a useful example, and each municipality has its own application route and document checklist.
1. Find the right town hall
Search the council’s website for alta en el padrón or alta al padró. If you’ve moved within the same municipality, look for cambio de domicilio. If you’ve moved to a different municipality, ask the new council how to apply for an alta. Check whether you need an appointment or can submit online.
2. Gather identity and address evidence
Check what the council accepts for every adult and child being registered. A tenant may be asked for a signed rental agreement and supporting evidence. An owner can ask which ownership documents are accepted. If you live with someone else, ask about the householder’s signed authorisation, their identification and proof they can authorise the address.
If you lack the usual paperwork, describe your situation to the town hall and ask how it can verify your actual residence. For a child, check what proof of parentage, custody or consent the council needs.
3. Get the right proof of registration
Ask whether the organisation you’re dealing with wants a volante or a certificado de empadronamiento, and whether it needs a recent or historical record. Confirm how to request it after registration. Ask about any renewal or confirmation requirement that applies to you.
Useful vocabulary in English, Spanish and Catalan
| English | Spanish | Catalan |
|---|---|---|
| Municipal register | padrón municipal | padró municipal |
| Registration | alta en el padrón | alta al padró |
| Change of address | cambio de domicilio | canvi de domicili |
| Registration certificate | certificado de empadronamiento | certificat d’empadronament |
| Written authorisation | autorización escrita | autorització escrita |
Frequently asked questions
Can I register if my name is missing from the lease?
Ask your council what proof it accepts, such as authorisation from the person entitled to occupy the property. It can explain the route if you lack the standard documents.
Is the padrón proof of legal residency?
It records your municipal address. Immigration status and residence documents are handled separately.
Do I apply in Palma if I live elsewhere on the island?
Apply to the municipality where you normally live. Palma’s forms are for addresses in Palma.
Listen to the Majorca Mallorca Podcast
Official information
Related guides
- Renting a home in Mallorca long term
- NIE, TIE and residency in Mallorca
- Registering your child for nursery or school
This post may contain affiliate links that help support Majorca Mallorca in creating content like this. If you make a purchase using one of these links, Majorca Mallorca may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. Read our disclosure for more information.