Padron ?

[Chandra]

Is it a legal requirement that I have to sign the Padron ?

[OldTimer]

Not as far as I know, although it is most useful in many circumstances like buying a car, getting a mobile phone or registering for utility bills etc...

[AJC]

No, it´s not a legal requirement, but it is in your best interests to register and also in the best interests of the Ayuntamiento, as the more they have listed, the more funding they get from central government.

[MickeyB]

I can't think of any reason why anyone would NOT want to register on the Padron ?

[Chico]

As far as I know it isn't a legal requirement. I have lived here for almost 2 years quite comfortably without being asked to produce one.

[Mekon]

If you are only here in Spain on a temporary basis, and don't have or intend to get residency here, maybe renting a property or staying with friends then I would say that there is no benefit, need or requirement for you to be on the Padron. I have a friend who has lived in the same house here in Spain for 5 years whilst working (legally) at the same company in the same town and he has never signed on the padron or been asked to produce a certifcate ever.
- On the other hand, if you intend to buy your own property and/or become resident here then it would be benficial to do so, and in many cases difficult not to.