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!
Accessing free public healthcare in Andalucía
The public health system in Spain often ranks among the world’s best. Known for its universality, it provides free-at-the-point-of-use healthcare (for most services) to all residents, regardless of their income level or employment status. Funded through taxes and social security contributions, the system offers comprehensive coverage, including primary care, specialist services, hospital care and prescription drugs. Health centres and hospitals […]
How to get a NIE in Malaga
If you’re not Spanish and you’re planning on staying in Spain long term, the chances are that you will need a Número de Identidad de Extranjeros (known most commonly as a NIE). Why do I need a NIE? To get practically anything done in Spain, you need an identification number. For foreign nationals, the NIE is your all-purpose identification and […]
Registering and getting a Social Security number in Malaga
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. You require a Social Security number for any work contract in order to start working legitimately and to begin making pension contributions. How to get a Social Security number in […]
Getting on the ‘padrón’ in Malaga
If you’re going to stay in Spain indefinitely, you should get yourself registered on the ‘padrón’ (population census). This is important for a number of reasons. Firstly, this can be used as proof that you have been residing in the city and, secondly, this will allow you to sign up for a number of services such as private health insurance, […]
Finding somewhere to live in Malaga
Just arrived in Malaga? You’ll need to find somewhere to live – and you’ll probably be looking to rent an apartment. With Malaga forging a strong reputation abroad, and the Covid pandemic, it’s trickier than ever to find an apartment or house that meets your needs… especially in the city centre. Prices have gone up a lot, especially with an […]