How to Get a Fixed Phone Line Installed in Spain

 

Once you move to Spain and start settling in your new home, one of the first things you will want to get is a fixed phone line. To get a fixed phone line installed in Spain isn’t actually as difficult as you might expect, after all the other red tape you’ve probably had to deal with. Simply go to aTelefónica branch, if you’re in an area only serviced by Telefónica, or one of the newer service providers and place an order. The company should send someone out to install your fixed line phone within 3-5 days depending on the backlog.

Do be aware, however, this being Spain, there are all kinds of oddities associated with getting a fixed phone line in Spain that don’t usually occur in many other countries.

First, when you place your order with Telefónica, you should go as soon as they open. They seem to back up quickly, and I’ve heard of waits of 4 hours or more just to be able to complete your order. If you get there first thing in the morning, you might be lucky to get out within 30-45 minutes.

Second, Telefónica will often ask you for a phone number where they can contact you and, if you don’t have one, (well you are just getting your fixed line phone ordered), they often won’t place your order. That is why it’s better to have a prepaid mobile phone set up first, so you have a telephone number to give them. If you’re still staying in a hotel you can always give them that number instead.

Third, they will also need your bank account number, as monthly phone charges will be taken out of it, so make sure you have that with you when you go to the office.

Finally, don’t forget your passport as you are required to have that with you to get any kind of telephone or internet service in Spain.

At the time of ordering your fixed phone line, you also have the choice of Telefónica supplying you with a phone or using your own. As they charge a monthly fee for use of the phone, as long as you use it, it’s really not worth it, so we recommend buying your own phone beforehand. You’ll save more money in the long run.