Can foreigners buy property in Spain?

Yes. Foreigners can freely buy property in Spain, with very few exceptions (e.g. certain military or protected areas).

Do I need to be a Spanish resident to buy property?

No. You can buy as a non-resident; the process is similar, but your taxes and mortgage options differ.

What is an NIE number and why do I need it?

The NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is your foreigner ID number in Spain. You need it for the purchase, taxes, utilities, and banking.

How do I get an NIE number?

You can apply at a Spanish police station in Spain, at a Spanish consulate in your home country, or via a lawyer with power of attorney.

Do I need a Spanish bank account?

Technically it's not mandatory, but in practice it's essential for paying taxes, utilities, community fees, and mortgages.

Are there restrictions on non-EU citizens?

Normally no. Non-EU buyers can purchase like EU citizens, though separate rules may apply for residency permits.

How long does the buying process take?

On average 6–12 weeks from offer acceptance to completion, depending on mortgages, paperwork, and due diligence.

What are the main steps?

Choose area → find property → reserve → hire lawyer → due diligence → sign private contract → arrange finance → sign deeds at notary → register and pay taxes. See our first-time buyer guide for a complete walkthrough.

How much deposit do I need?

Usually 10% of the purchase price is paid at the private contract stage (after an initial smaller reservation fee).

What should I do first before viewing?

Get your NIE process started, speak to a lawyer, set a realistic budget, and obtain a mortgage pre-approval if you need finance.

What's the most important tip?

Always use an independent lawyer who works only for you and never sign or pay anything significant before they've checked it.

What are typical buying costs?

Allow roughly 10–14% of the purchase price for taxes, notary, registry, legal fees, and other costs. Use our buying costs calculator to get an exact estimate.

What taxes on a resale property?

You normally pay Transfer Tax (ITP), which varies by region, plus notary, registry, and legal fees.

What taxes on a new-build?

You pay VAT (IVA) at 10% on residential property plus stamp duty (AJD), plus notary, registry, and legal fees.

What ongoing taxes as an owner?

You may pay local property tax (IBI), non-resident income tax, and tax on rental income if you let the property.

Do I pay tax if I don't rent out?

Yes. Non-residents pay a small "imputed" income tax based on the property's cadastral value.

IBI (Impuesto sobre Bienes Inmuebles) is the annual local council property tax, similar to council tax.

Any hidden costs to watch for?

Community debts, unlicensed extensions, unpaid taxes, or higher-than-expected renovation costs—proper due diligence helps avoid them.

Yes, it's strongly recommended. An independent lawyer protects your interests and checks all legal aspects before you sign.

What does the lawyer do?

They check ownership, debts, licences, planning, community fees, contracts, and manage tax payments and registration.

The notary is a neutral public official who formalises the sale, reads and witnesses the title deed, and ensures it complies with Spanish law.

What is the Escritura de Compraventa?

It's the official title deed that transfers ownership from seller to buyer, signed at the notary.

What is the Nota Simple?

It's a land registry extract showing who owns the property, any debts, charges, or legal issues affecting it.

Do I need to be in Spain to complete?

Not necessarily. You can grant power of attorney to your lawyer to sign and complete on your behalf.

Can I get a mortgage as a foreigner?

Yes. Many banks offer mortgages to non-residents, usually up to around 60–70% of the property value.

What documents do I need?

Typically passport, NIE, proof of income, tax returns, bank statements, details of debts, and property details.

What are typical mortgage terms?

Terms are usually 20–30 years with fixed, variable, or mixed interest rates.

How much can I borrow as non-resident?

Most banks offer 60–70% loan-to-value for non-residents, depending on your profile and the property. Use our mortgage calculator to estimate payments.

Are mortgages more expensive for non-residents?

Conditions can be slightly stricter, and maximum LTV is lower, but rates are often still competitive.

Do I need home insurance?

It's not legally required but highly recommended; banks usually insist on it if you have a mortgage.

Are community fees common?

Yes. In apartments and urbanisations, you'll pay community fees for shared services like pools, lifts, gardens, and cleaning.

What is a Comunidad de Propietarios?

It's the community of owners that manages shared parts of the building or complex, sets rules, and collects community fees.

What is a reservation contract?

An initial agreement where you pay a small fee to take the property off the market while your lawyer checks it.

Is the reservation fee refundable?

It depends on the contract. Often it's non-refundable unless specific conditions are not met.

What if the seller pulls out?

If there is a private contract with penalties, the seller may have to return your deposit—sometimes double—depending on the terms.

What if I pull out after signing?

You usually lose your 10% deposit, unless the contract allows withdrawal under agreed conditions.

Do I pay the seller's unpaid bills?

Debts linked to the property can pass to the new owner, which is why your lawyer must check and ensure they're settled.

Buying FAQ

Buying FAQ | 50 Questions Answered

Answers to the 50 most common questions about buying property in Spain. From NIE numbers and mortgages to taxes, lawyers, and legal requirements.

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Rachel Yetton Real Estate Expert

"These are the exact questions I get from buyers every week. If yours isn't here, get in touch — I'm happy to help."

Rachel Yetton , Real Estate Expert, Blanca International

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Buying FAQ | 50 Questions Answered

Eligibility & Requirements

The Buying Process

Costs & Taxes

Lawyers & Notaries

Mortgages & Financing

Insurance & Community Fees

Contracts & Deposits

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Buying FAQ | 50 Questions Answered

Related Guides

First-Time Buyer

Buying Process

Costs & Taxes

Legal Requirements