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How to register in San Sebastián (2026)

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Cost

Free

Free of charge

Time at office

15-20 minutes

Estimated time

On the spot (registration certificate issued immediately)

Quick summary

Complete guide for registering in San Sebastián, Basque Country. Requirements, necessary documents, where to do it and what the municipal registry is.

Required documents

  • ID card, passport or residence permit

    Valid identification document. For foreigners: passport, NIE or residence permit (TIE).

  • Documentary evidence of address

    Lease agreement, property deed, or authorization from the owner if residing in someone else's place.

  • ?

    Owner or tenant authorization Optional

    If you register at an address not owned by yourself, you need written authorization and a copy of their ID card.

    ⚠️ If registering in someone else's place

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: 2026

Step by step

  • 1

    Prepare the documents

    Gather your ID card, passport or residence permit and documentary evidence of address (lease agreement, property deed, or owner authorization).

    !

    Expert tip

    "If you register at a relative's place, you need their written authorization and copy of their ID card."

  • 2

    Visit the San Sebastián City Hall Citizen Service Office

    Go to any of the Citizen Service Offices of San Sebastián City Hall. Generally no appointment is needed, though there may be wait times during peak hours.

    !

    Expert tip

    "The neighborhood offices usually have less wait time than the central office."

  • 3

    Fill out and sign the registration form

    A staff member will provide you with a registration form. Fill in all data accurately, especially the exact address.

    !

    Expert tip

    "Ensure that the address matches exactly with your lease agreement or property deed."

  • 4

    Receive confirmation

    The city hall will process your registration on the spot. You can request a free registration certificate immediately.

Offices and service points - San Sebastian

Donostiako Udaletxea

San Sebastián, Donostia

Monday to Friday: 08:30 - 14:00

Frequently asked questions

What is the purpose of registration?
It verifies your residence in the municipality. It's required for renewing your ID card if you change address, enrolling children in neighborhood schools, applying for subsidies and benefits, and for foreigners to renew their residence permit.
Is it mandatory to register?
Yes. The Local Government Act obliges all residents (Spanish citizens and foreigners) to be registered in the municipality where they habitually reside.
Can a foreigner without papers register?
Yes. Registration is independent of administrative status. The city hall does not inform immigration authorities.
How long does registration take to become effective?
Registration becomes effective immediately upon processing. You can obtain a free registration certificate on the spot.
What is the difference between a certificate and an official statement?
The certificate is the standard, free document you receive immediately. The official statement has greater legal validity (notaries, courts) and is also free.

This procedure in other cities

Official sources and useful links

This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check the official source for current information.