Arriving
Bureaucracy & First Steps
Everything you need to know to settle in Spain. From the NIE number to the Certificado Digital to registering at the Ayuntamiento - we guide you through the most important official procedures.
Articles
14
Avg. reading time
9 min
Updated
March 2026
Your Start on Mallorca - Official Procedures Made Easy
Moving to Mallorca is exciting, but Spanish bureaucracy can quickly feel overwhelming. From the NIE number to the residencia to the empadronamiento - as a German newcomer you have to complete several official steps before you can truly settle on the island. Many of these procedures build on each other: no flat without a NIE, no residencia without an empadronamiento.
In our guides we explain every single step clearly and in plain language. You will learn which documents you need, where to book appointments and how long processing takes. We also show you how to get the Certificado Digital - the digital certificate that lets you handle many official procedures online. Our checklist for the first 30 days helps you stay on top of things and not forget anything important. All information is prepared specifically for newcomers, kept up to date and written from first-hand experience. So that your fresh start on Mallorca is stress-free and well organised.
The most important guides
Your First 30 Days on Mallorca - Checklist
ChecklistArriving on Mallorca can feel overwhelming. This checklist keeps you on track with all the important tasks you should complete in the first 30 days to settle safely and legally on the island.
10 minCita Previa CAIB - Booking a Government Appointment on Mallorca Online
NewWith the official Cita Previa CAIB app you can book an appointment with Balearic government offices in just a few minutes. We show you when you need the app, what the requirements are and how to get an appointment on Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza or Formentera step by step.
7 minWhich Documents to Bring to Mallorca - Apostille, Translation, Checklist
Which documents you absolutely must bring from Germany, which ones need an Apostille and where to find sworn translators. A practical checklist for dealing with authorities on Mallorca.
7 minEmbassies and Consulates for English-Speaking Expats on Mallorca
Which embassies and consulates serve English-speaking expats on Mallorca, what they can and cannot do for you, and how to reach them in an emergency. Covers UK, US, Ireland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa.
14 minEmpadronamiento - Registering at the Ayuntamiento on Mallorca
ImportantThe Empadronamiento is your registration with the local municipality (Ayuntamiento). It is one of the most important administrative registrations in Spain and a prerequisite for almost everything: a school place for children, bank accounts, social security and access to municipal services.
7 minGetting Set Up on Mallorca - What Matters in the First Weeks
Which contracts, cards and purchases make sense in the first weeks after arriving - from SIM card to bank account and home essentials. With the right order, recommended providers and typical costs.
7 minThe 10 Most Common Mistakes When Moving to Mallorca
Which mistakes German emigrants on Mallorca make time and again - from the wrong order for NIE and Empadronamiento to tax pitfalls. With clear tips on how to do it better.
8 minApplying for the NIE Number on Mallorca - Step by Step 2026
ImportantHow to apply for the Spanish NIE number on Mallorca: appointment, documents, costs and processing time. Step by step, including the consulate route from abroad.
12 minPre-Move Home Country Checklist for Expats Moving to Mallorca
Moving to Mallorca takes months of preparation at home before you ever board the plane. This checklist walks you through the key admin tasks to complete in the 3-6 months before you go, covering tax, banking, healthcare, documents and more - for US, UK, Irish, Canadian and Australian residents.
18 minApplying for the Residencia on Mallorca
ImportantThe Residencia (Certificado de Registro de Ciudadano de la UE for EU citizens) is an important document that confirms your legal residence in Spain. It is required for long-term stays and is requested in many administrative processes.
9 minSeg-Social App - Using the Seguridad Social digitally on Mallorca
NewWith the official Seg-Social App from the Spanish social security authority you can handle your Vida Laboral, certificates, contribution checks and family benefits directly from your smartphone. We show you when you need the app, what the requirements are and how to use it on Mallorca.
7 minApplying for the social security number on Mallorca
The Spanish social security number (Numero de Afiliacion a la Seguridad Social) is mandatory for everyone who wants to work in Spain or access healthcare. This article explains how to apply, what documents you need and what to watch out for.
4 minTax number (NIF) explained - the difference between NIE and NIF
The Spanish tax number (NIF - Numero de Identificacion Fiscal) is often confused with the NIE. This article explains what the NIF is, why it is identical to the NIE for foreigners, and when you need the NIF.
5 minMoving to Mallorca - removal companies, containers, pets
How moves to Mallorca work logistically, which removal companies are reputable, how containers are shipped and what you need to bear in mind when transporting pets. With costs, timelines and a checklist.
9 min