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How to register in Málaga (2026)

Verified on:

Cost

Free

Free of charge

Time at office

15-20 minutes

Estimated time

Instantaneous (certificate issued on the spot)

Quick summary

Complete guide for registering your residence in Málaga, Andalusia. Requirements, necessary documents, where to do it and what is the municipal registry.

Required documents

  • DNI, passport or residence card

    Valid identity document. For foreigners: passport, NIE or residence permit (TIE).

  • Documentation of the address

    Lease agreement, property deed, or written authorization from the owner if residing in someone else’s home.

  • ?

    Owner or landlord authorization Optional

    If you register at a residence owned by another person, you need their written authorization and a copy of their DNI.

    ⚠️ If residing in someone else’s home

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: 2026

Step by step

  • 1

    Prepare the documentation

    Gather your DNI/passport/residence card and address documentation (lease agreement, deed, or owner authorization).

    !

    Expert tip

    "If you register at a relative’s or friend’s home, you need their written authorization and a copy of their DNI."

  • 2

    Visit the City Hall Citizen Service Office in Málaga

    Go to any of the Citizen Service Offices of the City Council of Málaga. Generally, you do not need an appointment, although there may be a wait during peak hours.

    !

    Expert tip

    "Branch offices usually have less waiting time than the main office."

  • 3

    Fill out and sign the registration form

    The official will provide you with the registration form. Fill in the data correctly, especially the exact address.

    !

    Expert tip

    "Make sure the address matches exactly what is on your lease agreement or deed."

  • 4

    Receive confirmation

    The city council processes the registration immediately. You can request a residence certificate at the same time (free of charge).

Offices and service points - Malaga

City Council of Málaga

Avenida de Cervantes, 4 29016 Málaga

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

Frequently asked questions

What is the purpose of registration?
It verifies your residence in the municipality. It’s necessary to renew your DNI if you change your address, register children in neighborhood schools, apply for benefits and subsidies, and for foreigners, renew their residence card.
Is it mandatory to register?
Yes. The Local Regime Basic Law obliges all residents (Spanish and foreign) to be registered in the municipality where they habitually reside.
Can a foreigner without documents register?
Yes. Registration is independent of administrative status. The city council does not inform immigration authorities.
How long does it take for registration to be effective?
Registration in the registry becomes effective immediately. You can obtain a residence certificate on the spot (free of charge).
What is the difference between a certificate and a residence certificate?
The certificate is the standard, free document obtained on the spot. The official certificate has greater legal validity (notaries, courts) and is also free.

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.