A clear, friendly guide from Golf del Sur Properties
Life in Tenerife brings big moments — new arrivals, difficult goodbyes, and everything in between. Whether you’re a UK national, an EU citizen, or a long‑term resident, here’s what you need to know about registering births, dealing with bereavements, getting married, and accessing notarial services in Spain.
👶 Registering a Birth in Spain (UK & EU Citizens)
If your child is born in Spain, you must register the birth locally and then register it with your home country.
✔️ Step 1: Register the birth in Spain
This is done at the Civil Registry (Registro Civil) in the municipality where the baby was born.
✔️ Step 2: Register the birth abroad
- UK nationals: register the birth with UK authorities
- EU citizens: register the birth with your home-country civil registry
This ensures your child receives the correct nationality documentation and passports.
⚰️ When Someone Dies in Spain (UK & EU Citizens)
Losing someone abroad can feel overwhelming, but there is clear guidance available.
You can:
- Read the UK government’s guidance on what to do after someone dies abroad
- Read specific guidance for UK nationals dealing with bereavements in Spain
- Access lists of English‑speaking funeral directors in Spain
- EU citizens can also contact their home-country consulate for support
Funeral arrangements in Spain often move quickly, so early contact with a funeral director is recommended.
💍 Getting Married in Spain
If you’re planning to get married in Tenerife, you can read official guidance on:
- Legal requirements
- Documentation needed
- Whether you can marry in Spain as a UK national or EU citizen
- Civil vs. religious ceremonies
Each municipality may have slightly different procedures, so always check locally.
🖋️ Notarial & Documentary Services (UK & EU Citizens)
British nationals in Spain can access a range of notarial and documentary services, including:
- Certifying copies
- Administering oaths
- Witnessing signatures
- Preparing statutory declarations
EU citizens can access similar services through:
- Spanish Notaries
- Their home-country consulates in Spain
These services are often required for property transactions, marriage paperwork, powers of attorney, and inheritance matters.
🌴 Life’s Big Moments, Made Simple
Whether you’re welcoming a new baby, navigating a bereavement, planning a wedding, or handling official paperwork, Tenerife has clear systems in place — and support is available in English when needed.