🏡 Buying a property in Spain: What foreign buyers need to know

Are you considering buying a property in Spain? Whether it’s a holiday home, investment, or permanent move, understanding the legal process is essential — especially if you’re purchasing from abroad.

As a bilingual real estate lawyer with over 21 years of experience advising international clients, I’ve helped hundreds of families and investors navigate the Spanish property market with confidence and clarity.

In this guide, I’ll answer the most common questions buyers ask and explain how to avoid costly mistakes.

✅ Can Foreigners Buy Property in Spain?

Yes — foreign nationals can buy property in Spain without restrictions. Whether you’re a resident or non-resident, you have full ownership rights.

However, before you can buy, you’ll need a NIE number (Número de Identificación de Extranjero), a unique ID required for all official transactions.

🏦 What Is the Legal Process for Buying Property in Spain?

Here’s an overview of the steps involved:

Obtain your NIE and open a Spanish bank account
Hire an independent lawyer to carry out due diligence
Reserve the property by signing a reservation contract and paying a small deposit
Legal checks: your lawyer verifies ownership, debts, building licenses, etc.
Sign a private purchase contract and pay a deposit (usually 10%)
Complete the purchase at the notary by signing the public deed (escritura)

📌 Tip: Do not sign any contracts or pay deposits without legal advice.

What are the taxes and fees when buying a property?

Expect to pay 10–14% on top of the purchase price in taxes and fees. These include:

Transfer tax (ITP): 6%–10% (varies by region)
VAT (IVA): 10% on new builds
Stamp duty (AJD): approx. 1.5% on new properties
Notary and land registry fees: 0.5%–1%
Legal fees: Typically 1% + VAT

🔗 Guide: Property taxes for foreign buyers in Spain

Do I need a lawyer to buy a house in Spain?

Absolutely. Spanish property law is different from the UK, US, or other countries. Having a lawyer ensures:

The property has no hidden debts or legal issues
Planning permissions are in order
The title is correct and properly registered
You are protected throughout the transaction

As an independent lawyer, I represent your interests only — not the seller or the estate agent.

🌍 Can I Buy Property in Spain from Abroad?

Yes — many of my clients purchase without being in Spain by granting a power of attorney. This allows as your lawyer to:

Obtain your NIE
Sign contracts
Represent you at the notary
Set up utilities and register the property in your name

🔗 Learn more: Buying property remotely in Spain

🏦 Can I Get a Spanish Mortgage?

Foreigners can apply for a Spanish mortgage. Here’s what you need to know:

Up to 60–70% loan-to-value is typical for non-residents
Spanish banks require proof of income, ID, and a property valuation
Terms and interest rates vary by bank

📞 I work with several trusted banks and can help you compare mortgage offers. We provide full assistance to apply for a mortgage as non resident in Spain.

Can I Get Residency by Buying Property in Spain?

Buying property in Spain does not automatically grant residency, but it can support your application for a Non-Lucrative Visa — ideal for retirees and individuals who wish to live in Spain without working.

What is the Non-Lucrative Visa?

The Non-Lucrative Visa allows non-EU nationals to reside in Spain as long as they can prove sufficient financial means to support themselves (and their family) without working in Spain.

To qualify, you must:

Show a regular income or savings (the 2025 minimum is approx. €2,400/month for the main applicant)
Have private health insurance valid in Spain
Provide proof of accommodation (owning property can be a strong supporting factor)

🏡 While buying a home is not a requirement, owning property strengthens your visa application and demonstrates your ties to Spain.

🚫 Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Signing a private contract without legal review
Not verifying the legality of renovations or extensions
Buying a property with debts or inheritance issues
Using the seller’s lawyer or relying solely on the estate agent

⚖️ I provide full legal due diligence so you don’t face surprises later.

Ready to buy property in Spain? Let me help.

Buying a home in Spain should be exciting — not stressful.

As an English-speaking registered real estate lawyer highly internationally recommended, I offer:

Clear, bilingual legal advice
Personalised guidance through every step
Representation whether you’re in Spain or abroad
Concentrate in key points of your interest
Experience in International rules and Local law

📩 Contact me today to schedule a consultation, or download my free PDF checklist to get started:

🔽 Download: Property Purchase Checklist for Foreign Buyers

Virginia Ramos – Abogada | Lawyer
Trusted by international buyers for over 22 years
📞 Book a consultation | 📧 Email me at contacto@virginiaramos.com