Paperwork

Let's see, what do I have.

A Spanish husband.

My marriage certificate issued in the UK - which I've been told is invalid in Spain as it does not have a stamp.  Madre mia.

My passport, which I have to carry everywhere with me as I don't have a national identity card.  I even have to show it to get into the local swimming baths.

My European health card issued in the UK in my married name which may cause issues as my passport is in my maiden name.

An E112 from the UK confirming that I can have health cover, including maternity services, until March 2010 (stamped, thankfully).
 
A certificate from the local police confirming that I am a foreigner in Spain and an NIE (Numero de Identidad de Extranjero) - a foreigner's identity number.  Obtaining these two pieces of documentation  took three visits to the police station (with a mandatory ten days break between visits 1 and 2), two visits to the bank (?) and a large helping of patience. The bank said we couldn't pay the fee as we didn't have the number and the police said that we couldn't have the number until we'd paid the fee.  Catch 22.  The policeman shut up shop at 10am to go for breakfast.  The security guard shrugged and said, "well he has to eat." 

A certificat d'empadronament - I'm really not quite sure what this is, but the local council issued it and it means I can join the local library.

The paperwork is mounting, and yet trying to get a clear answer from anyone in a position of authority as to exactly what it is that I need to just receive health care here is almost impossible.   I've been told I need a social security number, but I can't have my own as I've never paid tax here.  Fine.  I understand that.  So I can be registered on Ivan's number.  But he's been out of the country for five years, so until he starts work (on Monday) neither of us our covered.  Let's hope we have an illness free weekend.