Free relocation guidance
The Complete Guide to
Relocating to Fuengirola, Costa del Sol
Everything you need to know about moving to the Costa del Sol — visas, paperwork, healthcare, schools and daily life — with a local advisor on hand for your specific questions.
Based in Fuengirola
English and Spanish
Local advisor follow-up
Free, no obligation
What we cover
What’s Inside the Guide
Our relocation guidance covers every aspect of moving to Fuengirola, from the paperwork to the lifestyle.
Visas & Residency
- Non-Lucrative Visa requirements and timeline
- Digital Nomad Visa for remote workers
- Golden Visa: abolished in April 2025 — what it means for buyers
- NIE application step-by-step
- TIE card and Padrón registration
Healthcare & Insurance
- Spanish public healthcare (SNS) and how to register
- Private health insurance options for expats
- English-speaking doctors and dentists in Fuengirola
- Nearest hospitals and emergency services
- Prescription medication and pharmacy system
Property & Finance
- Step-by-step guide to buying property in Spain
- Spanish mortgage options for non-residents
- Property taxes: IBI, Plusvalía, income tax for non-residents
- Utility setup: electricity, water, internet
- Community fees (comunidad) explained
Schools & Family Life
- International schools near Fuengirola
- Spanish public school enrolment
- After-school activities and sports clubs
- Family-friendly beaches and parks
- Childcare and nursery options
Cost of Living
- How to build a monthly budget for your household
- Grocery shopping: supermarkets and local markets
- Restaurant and dining costs
- Transport: car, train and bus
- What to compare with your current costs at home
Daily Life & Culture
- Opening a Spanish bank account
- Learning Spanish: schools and resources
- Social clubs and international groups
- Driving in Spain: licence exchange
- Local traditions, fiestas and markets
Relocation FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
The questions we hear most often from people planning a move to Fuengirola and the Costa del Sol.
Do I need a visa to move to Fuengirola from outside the EU?
Non-EU nationals generally need a residency visa to live in Spain long-term. The most common routes are the Non-Lucrative Visa for those with sufficient passive income and the Digital Nomad Visa for remote workers. EU and EEA citizens do not need a visa but should register locally once settled.
Can I still get a Golden Visa by buying property in Spain?
No. Spain abolished the investor residence permit known as the Golden Visa, and no new applications have been accepted since 3 April 2025. Buying property no longer gives residency on its own; non-EU buyers who want to live here usually look at the Non-Lucrative Visa or the Digital Nomad Visa instead. Check your options with an immigration lawyer, as requirements change.
What is an NIE and do I need one?
The NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) is a foreigner’s identification number required for almost any official or financial transaction in Spain, including buying property, opening a bank account, and setting up utilities. Anyone relocating to or investing in Fuengirola will need to apply for one early in the process.
Can I access healthcare in Fuengirola as an expat?
Yes. Residents who contribute to the Spanish system or register as residents can access the public healthcare network, and many expats also take out private health insurance for faster access and English-speaking doctors. Fuengirola and the surrounding Costa del Sol have hospitals, private clinics, and pharmacies throughout the area.
Are there international schools near Fuengirola?
Yes. Fuengirola and the wider Costa del Sol offer several international schools alongside Spanish public and concertado options, teaching in English and other languages. Families also have access to after-school activities, sports clubs, and nurseries across the area.
Is the cost of living in Fuengirola lower than in Northern Europe?
For many relocating families, day-to-day costs such as dining out, fresh produce, and leisure tend to be lower than in the UK, Germany, or Scandinavia, though this varies by lifestyle. Housing, utilities, and local taxes should be budgeted for individually, and a local advisor can help you work through the numbers for your situation.
How easy is it to settle into life on the Costa del Sol?
Fuengirola has a large, well-established international community with social clubs, language schools, and expat groups that make settling in straightforward. With around 300 days of sunshine a year, good transport links, and a welcoming local culture, many newcomers integrate quickly into daily life.
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