Ex-patriots encounter special difficulties and experiences while residing overseas. One such issue for Spanish retirees is the requirement to get a Certificate of Life or Life Certificate every year.
Are you a new expat from Spain who is preparing for the future and adjusting to life abroad? Do you need to know how to obtain a Certificate of Life since you recently retired? Perhaps you’re just seeking the latest recent details on getting your life certificate?
This blog has you covered.
When to Obtain a Certificate of Life
You must obtain a Certificate of Life during the first quarter of the year (January to March) to keep receiving your pension. Although it can be annoying at times, it proves that you are still alive and can get your money back, so everyone benefits. This document is also known as a Fe de Vida.
The Spanish Consulate General
If you reside in a country like Australia, you should take a flight to Sydney and show yourself in person at the Spanish Consulate General to obtain a Life Certificate. It is necessary to have a current Spanish ID, such as a passport or DNI, albeit one that has expired will not be recognised. The appropriate Social Security Office in Spain must get the original life certificate. If you’re in the UK, you must visit the Spanish Consulate General in London.
Certificate of Notarisation
The Notarial Certificate of Life is your best option if you are unable to appear before a Consulate General of Spain because there isn’t one there or because you can’t get to one due to health issues. Officials from your town hall or another local authority, such as the police, can receive and fill out a form, which they will then sign and seal. You need to present this to the relevant Social Security Office in Spain together with a copy of your ID or passport.
In some nations, a Public Notary can provide you with a certificate as proof of your life. You must ship it to the relevant Social Security Office, and it will nearly always need to be accompanied by a Hague Apostille.
Your pension will be suspended until you present the Life Certificate if you fail to produce your Fe de Vida during the first quarter of the year. They will backpay you for up to 90 days if your pension is suspended, so if you wait four months to finish it, you will forfeit one month of your pension.
Contact Spanish Probate Matters for Spanish probate assistance on 0208 1502010.
