November Newsletter 2025

Opening Note

As we move into the final stretch of 2025, this month’s headlines bring a mix of long-overdue enforcement, high-level proposals, and signs of economic resilience in our corner of the world. Local authorities are finally cracking down on organized crime with force, tourism infrastructure continues to expand, and municipalities like Estepona are setting the pace for regional growth.

At the same time, national debates on immigration and expat rights are heating up again, and weather volatility reminds us that even the Costa del Sol isn't immune to nature’s tantrums. As always, we keep the summaries short, sharp and practical; with an eye on what affects your life, property and investments here in southern Spain.

Global News

UK passport redesign rolls out in December
British passport holders will soon receive redesigned documents featuring King Charles III’s coat of arms. New passports also include updated security features and UK landmark illustrations. Existing passports remain valid until expiry.

Hurricane Melissa disrupts Caribbean, triggers Spain storm alerts
The powerful storm battered Jamaica in late October, forcing mass evacuations and infrastructure shutdowns. Its remnants contributed to extreme rain and tornado alerts in southern Spain days later. See regional section for local impacts.

EU News

EU to invest €550 billion in high-speed rail
The EU announced a mega-project to expand high-speed train connections between European capitals by 2040. A Madrid–Paris journey could drop to 6 hours. While Spain isn’t top priority on the rollout map, long-term implications for European mobility are significant.

EU continues to push for common return policies on migration
Discussions intensified this month over standardising rules for deporting illegal migrants across EU states. Mutual recognition of expulsion decisions is gaining traction, though member states remain divided. For Spain, the risk is added pressure to enforce returns without sufficient support.

Armenia–EU visa liberalisation plan launched
A formal action plan is now in motion between the EU and Armenia, aiming to eventually establish a visa-free regime. This follows similar paths seen with Georgia and Ukraine. The move could impact labour flows and immigration dynamics, particularly if security or economic instability drives movement westward.

EU migration “return hubs” in third countries proposed
Brussels is debating the controversial idea of housing deported migrants in non-EU partner countries. Critics say it's outsourcing the problem, while proponents argue it's necessary to reduce illegal entries. Either way, expect immigration to remain politically explosive heading into 2026.

Spain National News

Opposition party proposes stricter immigration criteria
The PP (centre-right) proposed new reforms targeting irregular migration. These include ending automatic “arraigo” residency unless a valid work contract exists, and raising Spanish-language requirements for citizenship to B2 level. While not yet law, it signals a tougher stance ahead of national elections.

New rules for elderly drivers in development
Spain’s traffic authority is drafting reforms to reassess driving privileges for people over 65. Instead of blanket bans, expect more frequent license renewals and tailored driving restrictions based on medical evaluations.

Flu season hits early and hard
Spain is seeing a sharp uptick in flu cases this autumn, particularly in the north. Health authorities warn the current vaccine may be less effective against dominant strains. Seniors and vulnerable groups are urged to get vaccinated as hospitals begin ramping up flu preparedness protocols.

Andalucía Regional News

Seville hit by record-breaking rainfall
On 29 October, Seville experienced its heaviest daily rainfall since records began: over 115 mm in 12 hours. Widespread flooding hit hospitals and roads. Málaga and other parts of the Costa del Sol also faced storm warnings, with localised flash floods and school closures.

High-speed rail frustration: no progress for Costa del Sol line
Regional leaders are furious after Madrid officials admitted the long-promised coastal railway (connecting Málaga to Marbella and Estepona) is likely “decades away.” Mayors called the statement outrageous, and some are now proposing public–private partnerships to push it forward.

Garbage tax returns in Vélez-Málaga, sparks protests
A controversial reintroduction of the rubbish collection tax (scrapped in the 1990s) has triggered backlash from residents. Locals accuse the town hall of “double taxation” since property tax already includes waste fees. The mayor blames national law for forcing the change.

Málaga Province News

Organised crime crackdown: 55 arrests, 7 gangs dismantled
Police in Málaga province have arrested over 50 suspects in one of the region’s biggest anti-mafia operations to date. Weapons, drugs and millions in cash were seized. Most of the criminal cells operated out of rented villas on the coast — some tied to international cartels.

Record-breaking tourism traffic at Málaga Airport
For the first time ever, Málaga Airport will handle more than 10 million passenger seats during the winter season. That’s a 6% increase over last year and solidifies its position as Spain’s third-busiest airport for new routes. British tourism remains the main driver.

Local Municipal News (Marbella & Surroundings)

New health centre opens in central Marbella
The Ricardo Soriano public health centre was inaugurated this month. Funded by the town hall and regional government, it adds 24 consultation rooms, diagnostic imaging, and a minor surgery suite — serving up to 20,000 residents. It’s the sixth public centre in Marbella and eases strain on other clinics.

Puerto Banús gangland killing adds to crime surge
In a chilling scene, an injured man was dumped from a car outside Puerto Banús marina and later died. The case is suspected to be part of the same wave of drug-related violence that triggered Marbella’s recent law enforcement crackdown. Police are treating it as a mafia-style execution.

Estepona sets the pace for business growth
Estepona continues to shine with over 200 new business licenses issued so far this year. It now boasts one of the lowest unemployment rates in Andalucia. Officials cite local tax incentives and simplified bureaucracy for attracting entrepreneurs.

Controversial development near heritage site in Vélez
A new 45-home project by developer Metrovacesa near a protected 16th-century watchtower has sparked outrage among residents. Locals say the construction — just 40 metres from the monument — ruins its historic surroundings and possibly violates cultural preservation laws.

Upcoming Events

World Travel Market (London – early Nov)
Costa del Sol tourism leaders attended the WTM in London to court more British tourists. With record airport traffic and new UK campaigns underway, Marbella’s bet on high-end winter tourism appears to be paying off.

Private Sector & Business News

Málaga leads Spain in self-employed growth
The number of autónomos in Málaga province has surged 34% in the last decade — far above the national average. Much of that growth comes from foreign residents and women, with booming sectors including tech, property, wellness and digital services.

Inheritance tax relief solidified in Andalucia
Andalucia continues to offer near-zero inheritance tax for immediate family members. This makes estate planning far easier for residents and is part of a broader trend among Spanish regions cutting succession taxes. Good news for families with property holdings here.

Long-term rental prices continue rising
Rents on the Costa del Sol are now among Spain’s most expensive. Málaga province ranks fifth nationwide, with prices rising nearly 12% year-on-year. The usual autumn cooldown hasn’t materialised this year, pointing to persistent demand from remote workers and high-net-worth residents.