Checklist: All the paperwork to do if you're leaving Spain for good

So, you've decided to leave Spain. Perhaps you got another job abroad, maybe you have family commitments back in your home country or perhaps you're just ready for a new adventure. Whatever the reason, you can't just simply leave, yes that's right there are several official admin processes you'll have to do first, from de-registering your residency to de-registering from your town hall.

De-register as a resident in Spain

The first and most important step is to let the authorities know that you will no longer be a resident here and de-register. While this isn’t necessarily mandatory, it’s a good idea so that you don’t come across issues with the tax authorities. To de-register you will need to make an appointment and your local police station or foreigners’ office and download and complete form EX-18. On the form tick BAJA POR CESE and make sure to bring your TIE or green residency certificate to your appointment.

When this has been processed, make sure to ask for a certificate of non-residence status, so you can prove to the tax authorities that you’re no longer registered as living here. For this you will need to fill out form 790 to pay a small fee.

EXPLAINED: How to officially give up your Spanish residency

De-register from the Padrón

The Padrón is your Town Hall or Ayuntamiento registration similar to a census, which proves where you live. Again, while this isn’t obligatory it’s a good idea to de-register to show that you are no longer going to be living in your area. This may also help you prove tax residency status in the future if you need to. To do this, you will need to make an appointment at your local Ayuntamiento office and tell them you want to de-register as you’re moving away.

Cancel Bills and subscriptions

If you’re leaving your property, you’ll want to make sure that you cancel all your utility, internet and insurance bills etc. Any subscriptions you have associated with your address you’ll want to cancel them too. This can be pretty straightforward, but will involve calling several different companies to let them know. It’s a good idea to get a cancellation reference number for things like internet, so you can make sure you cancel the direct debits with your bank as well.

LISTED: Everything you have to update when you change address in Spain

Change your details with the DGT

If you have a driving licence and drove regularly in Spain, you’ll want to make sure you change your details with Spain’s General Directorate of Traffic. Give them your new address if you know it and tell them you’ll no longer be living in Spain. You will need to make an appointment at one of the DGT offices to do this and bring your driving licence.

Close your bank account

If you’re not keeping a property here and are cutting ties with Spain completely, then it’s a good idea to withdraw any remaining funds you have and close your bank account. Many banks in Spain charge for simply keeping an account open, even if you don’t have any money in there, so if you don’t close it, you could unknowingly rack up a big fee. Be aware that banks here have been known to chase people for this money, even if they move abroad.

READ ALSO: Everything you need to know about closing a Spanish bank account

Ensure all your tax bills and social security payments are up to date

You need to make sure you pay your final social security bills are and de-register if you need to. Your company will do this if you’re an employee, but you’ll have to do it yourself if you’re self-employed. You also need to make sure all your tax bills are up to date. Remember, if you move part way through the year, but still lived in Spain for more than 183 days, you will still have to fill out a yearly income tax return (between April and June of the next year), even if you’re no longer living here. Remember if you’re self-employed you will also have to de-register from the autónomo system, as well as social security.

Baja de autónomo: How to deregister as self-employed in Spain

Tell your local medical centre you’re leaving

While this isn’t completely necessary, it’s a good idea to tell your local clinic that you’re moving and will no longer be registered in the area. This way they won’t try and send any medical documents or personal information to your old address. You may even be able to request to have some your medical records so that you can take them with you to your new country.