I have seen a couple of posts referring to a new style certificado de empadronamiento. We have certificados issued last September (07) - does that mean that we need to go back to the Padron to get new ones?

Which posts ? Are you getting confused ? The residencia is now a certificate and not a card.

Also the residencia must be acquired by all residents - many areas now insisting before the padron.

I think I mis-read your post on “tips for saving time queuing at the trafico”. However, we were also told by someone else that you needed a recent certificado de empadroniamento to apply for the new residency certificate. I’m hoping that this isn’t the case, as (as you mention) you cannot now register at the Padron -at least, in Calpe- without the new residency certificate, so it would seem to be catch 22! Interestingly - the Calpe Padron are now also insisting on a Police visit to verify your address and status if you don’t have any documentary proof (escritura, utility bill, rental agreement) in your own name. They will no longer just take your word for it that you live with your boyfriend/girlfriend/whoever.

The guidance notes on applying for the new residency certificate only mention passport, EX16 form and TASA 790 form for payment (plus copies of course). Fingers crossed that this still holds true, as we are off to queue at the crack of dawn at Benidorm next week.

No now they want you to get residencia first and then padron! I think you would be wise to take photos with you as well!

I agree with you the instructions (and the booklet document) do not mention photos but they wanted them in both Elche and Alicante (and I read Murcia)

Good luck!