Looking to buy luxury homes in Marbella here are some practical tips. Moving to Marbella, Spain, requires taking several important steps to ensure a smooth transition. Here’s a basic guide to help readers understand what’s needed for relocation:

Opening a Bank Account

1. Choose a Bank: Research and select a bank that offers services matching your needs. Consider international banks or local Spanish banks with experience dealing with expatriates.

2. Required Documentation: Typically, you will need your passport, proof of address (which can sometimes be an address from your home country), NIE number (Foreigner Identification Number), and sometimes proof of employment or income.

3. In-Person Visit: While some banks may allow you to start the account opening process online, many require you to visit a branch in person.

4. Non-Resident Accounts: If you haven’t yet obtained residency, you can open a non-resident bank account, which can be converted to a resident account once you have your residency.

Registering at a School

1. Research Schools: Marbella has a range of international and public schools. Depending on your preference for language of instruction and curriculum, you’ll want to research the best fit for your family.

2. Application Process: Contact schools directly to understand their application and enrollment process. Documents typically required include passports, previous school records, a health certificate, and possibly a NIE.

3. Public School Enrollment: If opting for a public school, you will need to register your child with the local education authority and provide the necessary documentation, including proof of residence in the school’s catchment area.

Registering for Tax and Employment

1. Obtain an NIE Number: The NIE number is essential for all financial and legal transactions in Spain, including employment.

2. Social Security Number: You must register with the Spanish social security system to work legally. This can be done at the local Tesorería de la Seguridad Social office.

3. Income Tax: Residents in Spain are taxed on their worldwide income, so you must declare all income to the Spanish tax authorities by submitting an annual tax return.

4. Professional Advice: It’s often worth seeking advice from a tax advisor, especially if you’re self-employed or running a business.

Getting an NIE Number and Residency

1. Apply for an NIE Number: This can be done at a local police station with a foreigners’ department or at a Spanish consulate abroad. You’ll need your passport, application forms, and, in some cases, a reason for applying for an NIE.

2. EU Citizens Residency: If you’re an EU citizen, you can apply for a certificate of residency at the police station if you plan to live in Spain for more than three months.

3. Non-EU Citizens Residency: Non-EU citizens may require a visa to stay long-term and will need to apply for residency through a different process, often starting in their home country.

4. TIE: The TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero) is a biometric residency card that non-EU citizens must apply for upon arrival if they plan to reside in Spain for more than six months.

Additional Tips:

• Always carry original documents and photocopies when dealing with administrative offices.
• Learn some basic Spanish; it will greatly assist with navigating bureaucracy.
• Consider hiring a “gestor,” a professional facilitator who navigates Spanish bureaucracy on your behalf.