Have you ever felt out of place? Outsider, like this life does not go with you. You don’t feel connected because to be on vacation or as a tourist is completely different to start a brand new living in a strange country, wishing to be involved in local life, not just an observer.
This is one of the stages we go through during the transitional period.
Which, fortunately, has a pleasant interruption at the time of completing one of the required formalities to settle down in Madrid.
Yeah, you guessed it. It’s about signing up for your consulate.
—I’ve always been surprised by the change in people when stepping in their consulate —says Paloma.
—Yes, it’s exciting! Suddenly all doubts are left behind and confidence is recovered —says Almudena.
—They seem to be reborn.
—That’s a bit much!
—I’d say I have empathy…
The truth is, when you walk into your consulate, you almost feel like you are at home, your own language, familiar faces and many compatriots, perhaps going through other circumstances, but all with the same roots and always with interesting stories.
It is also one of the simplest procedures.
—Well, it depends on which consulate. But yes, I agree, it’s one of the smoothest.
—All you have to do is carry your passport.
—And fill out some form. And a picture, right?
—In some cases, it can even be done online.
It is advisable to do so as soon as possible, once you’ve arrived in Madrid. There is no mandatory registration deadline. If you’re quick to find housing, you can go to the consulate once you’ve found a house because you’ll have to designate an address; this way you don’t have to report later on the change of address. You can even give the address of a hotel.
—The worst thing is that in most consulates you can’t make an appointment beforehand and the waiting time will depend on the people who have had the same idea as you.
—Right! but usually in a couple of hours you’re done.
—Well, I always book all morning. If I finish early, I have a few hours of free time to take advantage of them.
—Or waste them …
—In any case, an extra time that is always welcome.
It is essential to contact the Consulate beforehand and make sure of the opening hours and even days. Please note that in addition to local public holidays, holidays in the country of origin are also considered as non-working days.
—The Lebrechts are going to the South African consulate tomorrow.
—With the 3 children?
—Of course!
—They plan to arrive around 10:00. They already have all the documentation prepared and the forms completed and printed.
—Finally, have they decided how to go?
—By taxi. They don’t feel like going around until they find the exact address and … parking.
Many countries offer the possibility of processing it online, but whenever possible, a face-to-face visit may be more useful because you may find a lot of relevant information.
Consular registration, depending on the country concerned, is used to carry out certain procedures, vote in elections in the country of origin, receive information and assistance in emergency situations, etc.
It is always best to check the information about your Embassy or Consulate in Madrid before travelling.
In case you plan to move to Madrid soon, you will find all the relevant information in The secret of relocating to Madrid. If, in addition, you need help with the organization or even if you prefer we accompany you, check out our services.
In the meantime, you can receive regular information by filling out this questionnaire. And if you find it useful, we appreciate your sharing.
