As always in Spain, the disfunctionarios that are there to implement the law don't seem to have the slightest idea of how to do it, hence the incredible conflicting evidence on many ex-pats sites of what actually happens.

Basically, they are a bunch of overpaid civil servants with total job security who couldn't care less if they get it right or not.

Sadly, we just have to live with it.

not surprised with the churlish replies.

Hi, I have also moved to Spain recently at an age of 47 We have had to do the following, buy private healthcare as we can not get on the Spanish system until we have been resident for 12 months. We had to get a bank certificate from our bank manager to prove we have a 650 euro per month each coming into our Spanish account via a direct debit/ standing order. We didn't have the as we send money in bulks so we were accepted with a minimum of 6000 euro in our account. So with NIE, padron, private healthcare and bank certificate you will get your residency . Please don't expect it to happen quickly though.... Enjoy your life here, we love it x

I don't think you can call honest practical replies churlish!
People don't always hear what they want to hear, but better before the move is made, than regretting it afterwards

Thank you to all those who took the time to reply. With reference to several comments on medical insurance.
If we don't take up private medical insurance, but fund ourselves privately etc, after one year can we still join the Spanish system? Thanks again.

Possibly, but to become residents you do have to prove that you have healthcare coverage, so a 'we'll pay if we need it' won't wash there.

At the end of the day if you are an EU citizen and through petty bureaucracy you are unable to register as resident- it's not the end of the world. You cannot get thrown out, fines are non existent and the benefits of being Res are not great. You can still buy or rent a house, you can still buy a car....