First steps
Got somewhere to live? Got your papers in order? Probably not! It’s an obstacle we all have to overcome… it’s all part of the experience!
How to get a NIE: step-by-step guide
If you are planning on staying in Malaga for a longer period of time and becoming a resident, you will quickly notice that you will need a Número de Identidad de Extranjeros (NIE) for almost all paperwork, such as opening a bank account, getting paid work or even getting a […]
Accessing public healthcare in Andalucía
If you have both your NIE and social security number and you are in work then you are entitled to free healthcare in Spain. There are a number of health centres (or ‘centros de salud’) in the centre but it is important that you go to the one that corresponds […]
Finding housing
When you first arrive in any city, the first thing you’ll need to do is find somewhere to live. Unfortunately, with Malaga now forging a reputation abroad, it is more difficult than ever to find an apartment or house with prices soaring and increasing numbers of landlords choosing to target […]
Registering with social security
Registering with Seguridad Social (social security) is another essential step for anyone who would like to stay long term in Malaga, get a job and have access to free healthcare. There are a number of social security (‘seguridad social’) offices close to the centre, but if you live in or […]
Getting on the ‘padrón’
If you’re going to stay in Spain long term then you really need to get yourself registered on the ‘padrón’ (population census). This is important for a number of reasons; firstly you’ll then be a legal resident in the city and secondly this will allow you to sign up for […]