Relocating to Spain: Discovering the Costa Tropical in Granada
Why Choose the Costa Tropical?
The Costa Tropical is named for its subtropical microclimate, which offers over 320 days of sunshine a year and mild winters. The average temperature ranges between 18°C (64°F) in winter to 30°C (86°F) in summer. This makes it an ideal destination for those seeking a warm, outdoor lifestyle year-round.
Key benefits include:
- Stunning Beaches: clean, uncrowded beaches ideal for relaxation and watersports.
- Rich History: The area boasts Moorish castles, Roman aqueducts, and historic villages.
- Local Cuisine: The mix of fresh seafood, tropical fruits like avocados and mangos, and traditional Andalusian dishes creates a culinary paradise.
- Proximity to Granada City: The historic city of Granada, home to the Alhambra and vibrant tapas culture, is just an hour’s drive away.
- Proximity to Málaga International Airport: The Costa Tropical is conveniently located just over an hour’s drive from Málaga International Airport, offering easy access to international flights for both business and leisure travel.
- Affordable Living: The cost of living in Granada province is lower than in major cities. Expect to pay less for groceries, dining out, and transportation.
- Healthcare: Spain has an excellent healthcare system. EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), while others need private insurance or must register with the public system after becoming residents.
Step 1: Research residency and work permits according to your personal needs
Before making the move, it’s crucial to gather all the information you can about living in Spain, specifically in Costa Tropical. Research the following aspects:
- Residency and Work Options: Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to relocate. Non-EU citizens often apply for a non-lucrative visa if not working. Alternatively, Spain recently introduced a Digital Nomad Visa, aimed at remote workers and freelancers, allowing them to reside in Spain while working for companies or clients outside the country. This visa offers an excellent opportunity for professionals in the growing remote-work sector. See more in our Digital Nomad Visa page. EU citizens only need to register for a Número de Identidad de Extranjero (NIE)
- Education: If you’re moving with children, research the Spanish education system and available international schools. For families, the Cosa Tropical region offers a mix of local public schools and international schools, such as the Almuñécar International School, where lessons are conducted in English and Spanish.
- Job Market: Explore the job opportunities in Spain, especially in the Costa Tropical area. Consider salaries and industries that are growing in the region.
Step 2: Search Where You Want to Live
Costa Tropical offers a variety of beautiful towns and neighborhoods, each with its own charm and lifestyle. To find the perfect place for you, it’s important to explore different areas and consider your needs.
Rent First: It’s a good idea to rent a property for one year before making any long-term decisions about buying. Renting allows you to get a feel for the area, explore different towns, and determine which neighborhood suits your lifestyle best. Whether you’re drawn to the beachside town of Almuñécar, the historic village of Salobreña, or the more inland areas like Jete, renting first gives you flexibility.
Property Types: Costa Tropical offers a range of property options, from modern apartments in coastal towns to charming villas with mountain views. Prices tend to be more affordable compared to larger Spanish cities like Madrid or Barcelona, making it an attractive choice for expats.
Location Considerations: Consider factors such as proximity to the beach, local amenities, schools, and public transportation. If you’re planning to commute to Granada or Málaga for work or leisure, choose a town with good connections to major roads and public transport.
Rental Market: The rental market in Costa Tropical is generally favorable, with options ranging from short-term holiday rentals to long-term leases..
Taking your time to find the perfect property will ensure that you settle in an area that truly fits your needs, so renting for a year is often the most practical option.
Step 4: Translate and Legalize Documents Before You Arrive in Spain
Before leaving your home country, it is crucial to ensure that all your important documents are translated into Spanish and legalized. These may include your birth certificate, marriage certificate, educational documents, and work-related certificates.
For your Spanish residence permit application, all documents must be legally translated into Spanish and legalized with the Apostille of the Hague. This ensures that your documents are recognized as valid in Spain. It’s important to note that submitting documents in your native language is not acceptable—everything must be in Spanish.
In Spain, official documents translations must be carried out by a sworn translator (traductor jurado), who is officially authorized to translate legal documents. Sworn translations carry legal weight and are required for official processes such as visa applications, residency permits, and other legal matters. You can find available sworn translators here.
Having all of your documents properly translated and legalized in advance will save you time and prevent delays once you arrive in Spain. This is an essential step to ensure that your relocation process goes smoothly.
Step 4: When you arrive, register at the Town Hall
Once you’re settled, it’s important to register at the Ayuntamiento (Town Hall) in your local town or city. This will give you the certificado de empadronamiento, which is an official certificate of your residence in Spain. This document is necessary for things like applying for healthcare, setting up utilities, and more.
Step 5: Get Your NIE Number
The NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) is a unique identification number for foreigners living in Spain. You will need an NIE to sign contracts, open a bank account, or apply for a job. You can apply for an NIE at the police station or local foreigner’s office.
Step 6: Apply for Health Insurance
Spain’s public healthcare system is excellent, but it’s essential to make arrangements for health insurance as soon as possible. If you’re an EU citizen, you may be eligible to use your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Otherwise, you will need to apply for private insurance or register for the public healthcare system once you become a resident.
Step 7: Open a Spanish Bank Account
A Spanish bank account is crucial for managing your finances, paying bills, and receiving payments. Most major banks in Spain offer accounts in English and online banking services, which makes the process straightforward. You will need your NIE number and proof of address to open an account. See more in our Banking page.
Step 8: Get a Local SIM Card
Having a local mobile number is important for communication and navigation. You can purchase a SIM card at the airport or local shops. Many mobile providers offer prepaid options, which are convenient if you don’t plan on committing to a contract.
Step 9: Register to Pay Tax in Spain
If you plan to work or earn an income in Spain, you need to register with the Spanish Tax Agency (Agencia Tributaria). This involves getting a tax identification number (NIF) and ensuring you are paying the appropriate taxes.
Step 10: Apply for Insurance
In addition to health insurance, you may want to apply for other types of insurance, such as home, car, or life insurance, depending on your personal needs.
Step 11: Exchange Your Driver’s License
- If you are relocating to Spain and plan to drive, you may need to exchange your foreign driver’s license for a Spanish one. Citizens of EU countries can usually exchange their licenses without taking a test, while non-EU citizens may need to pass a driving exam. The process typically involves presenting your original license, proof of residence, and a medical certificate at the local traffic department (DGT). It’s essential to check the specific requirements based on your country of origin, as some licenses may have agreements with Spain for direct exchange.
What to Expect in Everyday Life
Community and Lifestyle
- Expat Communities: Costa Tropical attracts retirees, digital nomads, and families from the UK, Germany, Scandinavia, and beyond. Towns like Almuñécar host active expat groups organizing social and cultural events. See more in our
- Learning Spanish: While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, learning Spanish helps integrate into the local culture and opens doors to authentic experiences.
