Living in Málaga as an expat
The Costa del Sol capital and Spain's digital-nomad coast — sunshine, startups and a thriving international scene.
Your expat guide to Málaga
The Costa del Sol capital and Spain's digital-nomad coast — sunshine, startups and a thriving international scene. Whether you're moving to Málaga or already settling in, this YouExpats guide brings together English-speaking housing, legal and visa help, jobs, healthcare, schools and community — everything you need in one place, with verified, expat-friendly businesses across Málaga.
Explore other cities in Spain
Frequently asked questions
Is Málaga a good place for expats?
Málaga is one of Spain’s most popular destinations for international residents, with a welcoming community, English-speaking services and a high quality of life. This guide brings together everything you need to settle in.
Do I need a NIE to live in Málaga?
Yes — the NIE (foreigner identification number) is required for almost everything in Málaga: renting, working, opening a bank account or signing contracts. You can find English-speaking specialists to help in the Bureaucracy & Legal section.
How do expats find housing in Málaga?
Most newcomers start with rooms or co-living while they search, then move to a long-term rental. Browse expat-friendly housing options for Málaga in the Housing section of this directory.
Do I need to speak Spanish to live in Málaga?
You can get by in English in Málaga thanks to its large international community and English-speaking services, but learning Spanish (or Catalan, where relevant) makes daily life much easier.