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How to open a business in Málaga (2026)

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Cost

Free

Variable according to the municipality and type of activity. The responsibility declaration is free in many cases. The business license can cost between 150€ and 2,000€ depending on the municipality and the activity.

Time at office

30-60 minutes (first consultation)

Estimated time

Responsibility declaration: immediate opening. Full business license: 1-4 months.

Quick summary

Complete guide for opening a business in Málaga, Andalusia. Business license, responsibility declaration, municipal procedures and legal requirements in 2026.

Required documents

  • DNI or NIE of the owner

    If it is a company, founding deed and CIF of the company.

  • Tax registration (Modelo 036/037)

    You must be registered as self-employed or have a company constitution before opening.

  • Social security registration

    Register as a self-employed in RETA or register employees if you hire them.

  • Lease agreement or property deed of the location

    Documentation that proves your right to use the premises where the activity will be developed.

  • ?

    Technical project (if required by the activity) Optional

    For activities with environmental, acoustic impact or requiring works, you need a signed project by an eligible technician (architect, engineer).

    ⚠️ Only for classified activities or with works
  • ?

    Urban compatibility certificate Optional

    Confirms that the premises can be used for the activity intended. Requested at Málaga City Hall before renting the location.

    ⚠️ Recommended before signing the lease agreement

0 €
Variable according to the municipality and type of activity. The responsibility declaration is free in many cases. The business license can cost between 150€ and 2,000€ depending on the municipality and the activity. €0.00
€0.00
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: 2026

Step by step

  • 1

    Check urban compatibility of the premises

    Go to official site

    Before renting or buying, check with Málaga City Hall whether the location allows the activity you want to develop. This step saves you from time and unnecessary expenses.

    !

    Expert tip

    "Most municipalities resolve urban compatibility queries within 5-10 working days. Always ask for written confirmation."

  • 2

    Register with Hacienda and Social Security

    Go to official site

    If you are not already self-employed, do this first. Modelo 037 at AEAT and registration in RETA via Importass. Without this step, you cannot process the opening.

    !

    Expert tip

    "If your company is already established, you only need its CIF and self-employment registration with AEAT."

  • 3

    Apply for the business declaration or license at Málaga City Hall

    Go to official site

    For many commercial and service activities, a responsibility declaration of opening is sufficient before Málaga City Hall. For more impactful activities (bars, workshops, industries) you need a full activity license. The Junta de Andalucía offers Single Business Windows (VUE) in the Chambers of Commerce across each Andalusian province. They allow coordinated municipal permit applications and business openings online through the Junta’s portal.

    !

    Expert tip

    "Use the Single Business Window Junta de Andalucía portal to determine which type of procedure is required for your activity before visiting the municipality."

  • 4

    Obtain other sector-specific authorizations

    Depending on the type of business, you may need additional authorizations: sanitary (food, catering), environmental (workshops, industries), tourism (accommodation), or entertainment (venues with music).

    !

    Expert tip

    "Check the Ministry of Industry (IPYME) portal for a full list of necessary authorizations according to your CNAE activity code."

Offices and service points - Malaga

Málaga City Hall — Licenses and Activities Office

Calle de Cervantes, 4 29016 Málaga

+34 952 13 53 48
Monday to Friday: 08:30 - 14:00

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between business license and responsibility declaration?
The responsibility declaration allows immediate opening, assuming that the owner fulfills all legal requirements. The municipality can verify it later. A full business license requires a prior inspection by the municipality and may take months. For most commercial activities without special impact, the responsibility declaration suffices.
How much does the business license cost in Málaga?
The cost of the business license varies according to Málaga City Hall and the type of activity. For harmless activities (offices, small businesses) the municipal fee usually ranges between 100€ and 300€. For classified activities (restaurants, workshops) it can exceed 1,000€ due to required technical reports.
Can I open a business from home in Spain?
Yes. Many service, consultancy or online sales activities can be carried out from your private residence. In that case, the 'location' is your domicile and, if there's no public service, it usually doesn't require municipal licensing. However, you must register with Hacienda and Social Security.
What happens if I open a business without a license?
Opening a business without the required responsibility declaration or license can result in municipal penalties ranging from hundreds to thousands of euros, including local closure. City authorities have activity inspectors who perform periodic checks.
Do I need renovations to adapt the location?
If the premises require renovations, you must apply for a works permit or prior communication of work with the city hall before starting any work. Minor works (painting, light installations) can usually be done via prior communication. Major works require a technical project and works license.

This procedure in other cities

Official sources and useful links

This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check the official source for current information.