Step-by-step guides to life on the Costa Blanca: where to apply in your town, what to bring and what it costs. Each one checked against official sources.
NIE and residence papers: which one you need on the Costa Blanca
The NIE is your foreigner number in Spain. EU citizens who move here get it on the green registration certificate, UK and other non-EU residents with the TIE card, and non-residents such as buyers can ask for the number alone (EX-15, €9.84). The National Police handle all three.
Checked 3 November 2026Padrón registration: how to sign up at your town hall
Everyone who lives in Spain must be on the padrón, the town hall's register of residents, in the municipality where they spend most of the year. It is free. Bring ID, your deeds or rental contract and the town's form, then book an appointment or apply online with a digital certificate.
Checked 3 November 2026Temporary protection: key dates for Ukrainians and their employers
The EU has extended temporary protection for people from Ukraine to 4 March 2028, automatically. It includes the right to work, so employers need no separate permit. Spain has extended the TIE cards to 4 March 2027 so far. Since April 2026 holders can move to an ordinary residence permit.
Checked 3 November 2026Driving licence in Spain: using and exchanging a foreign licence
EU and EEA licences stay valid in Spain until they expire. A UK licence must be exchanged within 6 months of becoming resident, with no tests. US, Canadian and most other licences stop being valid 6 months after you become resident and cannot be exchanged: you take the Spanish tests.
Checked 3 November 2026SIP card and healthcare: how to see a doctor on the Costa Blanca
The SIP card is your patient card for the Valencian public health service. You get it at the health centre for your padrón address. What decides free care is your entitlement: a job or Spanish pension, an S1 form from the UK or another EU country, or the regional pay-in scheme.
Checked 3 November 2026