The practical checklist that saves a relocating family six months of small mistakes.
Moving to Marbella is the fun part. The ninety days that follow — the residency paperwork, the school enrolments, the utilities, the doctor registrations — are the part nobody warns you about. Here is our shortlist.
Weeks 1–2: NIE and empadronamiento
Apply for your NIE (foreigner identity number) and register with the local town hall (empadronamiento) immediately. Every other administrative step depends on these two.
Weeks 2–4: bank account and utilities
Open a Spanish bank account, transfer utilities into your name, and register with a mobile provider. Sabadell, Bankinter and BBVA are the usual choices for international residents.
Weeks 4–6: schools and doctors
Confirm school places, register the family with a private clinic (Hospiten, Quirónsalud or Vithas Xanit), and organise health insurance if your school does not include it.
Weeks 6–12: paperwork and residency
Apply for TIE (residency card), register for social security if you are working, and begin the tax residency process with a Spanish accountant.
The ninety-day mindset
Spain rewards patience. Nothing moves quickly. Everything works out — usually in the second appointment.
Speak to a partner
Considering a move — or a sale — on the coast?
Every enquiry is handled personally by a partner, in private. We reply within 24 hours.
