Málaga Extranjería, Empadronamiento and Transportation
Málaga, located on the Costa del Sol, is one of the most vibrant and tourist-friendly provinces in Andalucía. It’s famous for stunning beaches, rich history, and a lively expat community. The capital, Málaga city, has a mix of modern lifestyle, historic sites like the Alcazaba, and a growing tech hub. Other popular towns include Marbella, Torremolinos, and Nerja, each with its own charm.
Málaga is also known for its Mediterranean climate, affordable cost of living (compared to bigger Spanish cities), and an excellent transport network. Whether you’re moving here for work, studies, or retirement, you’ll find a mix of urban life and coastal relaxation.
Major Festivals:
- Feria de Málaga (August) – A week-long street festival with music, food, and flamenco.
- Semana Santa (March/April) – Huge Easter processions, among Spain’s most famous.
- Noche en Blanco (May) – Free cultural events all night.
Málaga Extranjería & Comisaría Info
If you need to handle immigration procedures like TIE applications, fingerprints, or return authorizations, you’ll likely visit an extranjería police station. You’ll need an appointment (cita previa) for most procedures, so make sure to book ahead of time!
The main Comisaría de Policía Nacional in the Málaga province for foreigners is located at:
Foreign Affairs Office Málaga – C. Mauricio Moro Pareto, 13, Cruz de Humilladero, 29006 Málaga
Need help with Málaga extranjería paperwork?
For more information on making appointments and completing common procedures (like TIE renewals, criminal record checks, and more), visit our Procedures page.
Empadronamiento Málaga: How to Register Your Address
The empadronamiento (padrón) is your official residency registration with the local town hall. You must be registered to get a TIE, register for healthcare, and other administrative tasks.
- Where to apply? Make an appointment at any OMAC or at the Tax Management offices.
- What to bring?
- Completed Application Form
- Passport/TIE
- Rental contract or proof of address (Utility bill for example)
- Processing time: Same day or at most a few days.
Once registered, you will receive a Certificado de Empadronamiento, which is valid for three months when used for official processes.
Public Transportation Málaga: Bus, Metro & Commuter Rail
Málaga province has a well-connected and efficient public transport system, making it easy to travel within the city and to surrounding towns. The main options include buses (both local and interurban), the metro, and Cercanías trains, all of which are integrated to provide smooth connections. Public transport is managed by EMT Málaga for city buses, Metro de Málaga for the metro, and Renfe Cercanías for the suburban train system. There are also various transport passes available, such as the Tarjeta de Transporte and Málaga Card, which offer discounts for frequent travelers.
Málaga City & Intercity Buses
Málaga’s local bus system is operated by EMT Málaga, covering the entire city with more than 40 routes, including night buses. A single bus ticket costs 1.40€, but there are options for multi-trip cards and monthly passes. The main bus station, Estación de Autobuses de Málaga, serves as a hub for interurban buses, which connect Málaga with nearby towns like Marbella, Torremolinos, and Nerja. Companies like Avanza, and ALSA operate these routes, with frequent departures throughout the day.
Málaga Metro System
Málaga’s metro system is relatively new, with two lines (L1 and L2) that connect key parts of the city. The metro runs from Andalucía Tech to El Perchel and Guadalmedina, providing a fast and modern way to travel. The main interchange stations are El Perchel, which connects to the Cercanías train, and Guadalmedina, near the city center. Ticket prices start at 0.82€ with a transport card, and the system is expected to expand further in the future.
Málaga Cercanías – Suburban Train System
Málaga’s Cercanías train network consists of two lines (C1 and C2) operated by Renfe. Line C1 runs along the coast from Málaga Centro Alameda to Fuengirola, stopping at key tourist areas like Torremolinos and Benalmádena. Line C2 connects Málaga to Álora, serving more inland destinations. The Cercanías trains are a fast and reliable alternative to buses, especially for those commuting or traveling along the Costa del Sol. Prices depend on the number of zones traveled, and the Renfe Abono card offers discounts for frequent users.
