Well guys, I'm even more confused. I went to register again at the doctors with my NIE no. proof that I pay social security here, proof that I live and have a business here, to be told that my NIE certificate is now out of date, and I need to go to Palma for my residencia, but then they noted that my passport runs out in July of next year, and that to get my residencia it may have to be valid for 12 months?? I'm feeling totally despondent now. After reading your comments it would appear that I have to prove health cover to get my residencia, and vice versa! I'm really not sure what to do next. I don't have transport, so it's not just a case of jumping in the car and travelling from place to place , I have to plan my route around public transport. Please someone show me a light