Empadronamiento (Domicile Registration) is the official process by which a student registers in the census register of the town hall of the city where they will live (Padrón Municipal).
The certificate obtained (Volante de Empadronamiento) is the legal proof of domicile in Spain.
Why is Empadronamiento vital for a student?
Without this document, the student's administrative process is blocked:

1. For Non-EU students: It is the mandatory document to be able to request the physical TIE residence card at Step 7. The police will not issue the TIE without proof of address approved by the town hall.
2. For EU students: It is necessary to obtain the permanent Residence Certificate (green sheet).
3. Health: It gives the right to request the public health card (Tarjeta Sanitaria Individual) to be assigned to a family doctor at the nearest local medical center (CAP - Centro de Atención Primaria).

This step is closely related to the type of accommodation selected by the student

- If they have chosen Private / Public Residence / Colegio Mayor (RESA, Livensa, etc.):
- Advantage: The process is extremely simple. The student requests an official certificate of accommodation (Certificado de residencia) from the reception of the residence.
- If they have rented an apartment on the open market (private owner):
Technical Barrier: The student needs the original rental contract (valid for a minimum of 6 months) signed by them and the owner. If the student's name does not appear on the contract (it is only sublet), an authorization signed by the contract holder and a copy of their identity card are required.

Checklist Documents (For the visit to the Town Hall)

- Completed application form (Solicitud de Alta - provided free of charge by the town hall or downloaded from their website).
- Identity Document: Original valid passport (mandatory for Non-EU) or National ID (for EU).
- Proof of Residence:
- For Residences: Certificate issued by RESA / Livensa / Hostel.
- For Apartments: Original rental contract + latest utility bill (water/electricity) in the name of the owner.

How long does it take and how to obtain it?
The student must make an online appointment (Cita Previa) at the local town hall. On the day of the appointment, the clerk checks the documents and, in most cities, issues the document (Volante) on the spot, free of charge.