Moving to Marbella: everything you need to know and arrange

Moving to Marbella: for many international buyers it starts as a dream during a sunny holiday. And more and more people are actually taking the plunge. Whether you are retiring, working remotely, starting a business or looking to begin a new life with your family, good preparation makes all the difference. In this guide we set out everything you need to know and arrange.

Why move to Marbella?

Around 300 days of sunshine a year, an international community, excellent schools and healthcare, golf, fine dining and an airport just 45 minutes away: together they make Marbella unique. See also Why does everyone go to Marbella?

Can EU citizens simply move to Spain?

Yes. As an EU citizen you are free to live and work in Spain. You do, however, need to complete a few formalities if you stay longer than three months.

The admin checklist

1. NIE number: your Spanish tax identification number, needed for almost everything: buying or renting a property, opening a bank account, signing a contract.
2. Registering as an EU citizen: if you stay longer than three months, you register with the Central Register of Foreign Nationals and receive a green certificate.
3. Empadronamiento: your registration on the Marbella town hall's population register. You need it for schools, healthcare and local benefits, among other things.
4. Deregistering in your home country: notify your local authority of your departure and sort out the implications for your health insurance, pension and benefits.
5. Spanish bank account: to pay your regular bills and taxes.
6. Driving licence and car: a European driving licence remains valid. If you bring your car, you must register it in Spain within a set period.

Tax: watch the 183-day rule

If you spend more than 183 days a year in Spain, or your main economic interests are based there, you will in principle become a Spanish tax resident. You then pay income tax in Spain on your worldwide income, and reporting obligations apply to assets held abroad. The tax treaties between Spain and your home country determine where each type of income is taxed. Be sure to take advice from a tax adviser who knows both systems, well before you move.

Healthcare

Marbella has the public Hospital Costa del Sol as well as several private hospitals and clinics with international doctors. If you work in Spain or receive a pension from an EU country, you may, subject to conditions, be entitled to Spanish public healthcare. Many residents also take out private health insurance.

Schools for your children

Marbella has a wide choice of international schools offering British, IB, German, Swedish or French education, as well as bilingual Spanish schools. Start early, as the most popular schools have waiting lists. See our overview of international schools in Marbella.

Working from Marbella

With no time difference from most of continental Europe, and just one hour ahead of the UK, Marbella is ideal for remote working. Fibre broadband is available in most areas and there are coworking spaces. See also Summer time in Marbella.

How much money do you need to move to Marbella?

That depends very much on your lifestyle and your home. Day-to-day costs for food, restaurants and energy are often lower than in the UK or northern Europe, but living in the prime locations is expensive. On top of your housing costs, allow for insurance, school fees and transport. Read more in Is Marbella expensive?

Which neighbourhood suits you?

• Families: Nueva Andalucía, Sierra Blanca, Guadalmina or the New Golden Mile, close to the schools.
• Retirees: the town centre, the Golden Mile or Marbella East, with everything within walking distance and flat seafront walks.
• Peace and nature: Benahavís, La Zagaleta or El Madroñal.
• Buzz: Puerto Banús and the town centre.

You can read more about the neighbourhoods in Where do the wealthy live in Marbella?

Rent first or buy straight away?

If you don't know Marbella well yet, renting for a year first can be wise: it lets you get to know the neighbourhoods before you buy. If you already know where you want to live, buying is often better value in the long run. We can help you with both. See also our step-by-step guide to buying a home in Marbella.

Settling in and learning Spanish

In Marbella you can easily get by in English, and you'll find fellow expats everywhere. Even so, we recommend everyone learns Spanish. It opens doors, makes everyday life more enjoyable and the Spanish really appreciate it. There are countless language schools and private tutors.

We'll help you feel at home in Marbella

We are Geert and Martine, Belgian estate agents with an office in Marbella. For years we have guided international buyers through their move, helping not only with their home but also with practical contacts: lawyers, tax advisers, banks, schools and removal companies. Take a look at our Prestige collection, our new developments or get in touch with us.

A timeline for your move

• Twelve months before: explore the neighbourhoods on one or more visits, contact schools and get tax advice.
• Six to nine months before: decide whether to rent or buy, and start your property search. Apply for your NIE number.
• Three to six months before: sign your rental or purchase contract, enrol your children in school and get quotes from international removal companies.
• One month before: arrange your insurance, notify your local authority of your departure and cancel subscriptions.
• After you arrive: register with Marbella town hall, register as an EU citizen, put the utilities in your name and find a GP.

The first few months: getting used to Spanish life

Your first months in Marbella often feel like a long holiday, but you soon notice the differences from home. Paperwork can take longer, appointments are treated more flexibly and the daily rhythm shifts: lunch after two and dinner after nine. Those who embrace it discover a delightful way of life, with more time outdoors, more contact with the neighbours and more enjoyment of the little things. Join a club, an association or a language course. That way you quickly build a new network, with Spaniards and other international residents alike.

Frequently asked questions

Can I emigrate to Spain as an EU citizen?

Yes. As an EU citizen you are free to live in Spain. After three months you must register as a resident and with the town hall.

Is emigrating to Spain a good idea?

For many people it is, provided you prepare well in terms of tax, healthcare and work. Get tax advice before you leave.

How long can I stay in Spain without registering?

Up to three months. After that, EU citizens are required to register.

Do people speak English in Marbella?

Yes, English is widely spoken. You will also find plenty of multilingual service providers in Marbella.