Foreigners: legal requirements to buy in Spain

Image of area of ​​Spain used as a background for Mayrasa's blog banner: Legal aspects to consider when acquiring property in Spain
Content table

Spain is one of the most attractive destinations for the purchase of property by foreigners. Its climate, quality of life and profitability in real estate investments make cities like Torrevieja ideal options. However, before proceeding with the Purchase of a home, It is essential to know the legal and tax requirements that affect international buyers.

If you are interested in the houses for sale in Torrevieja, This guide will help you understand the key aspects so that your purchase is made safely and without unforeseen events..

1. Obtaining the NIE (Foreigner Identification Number)

He NO It is a mandatory requirement for any foreigner who wants to buy a property in Spain. This number is necessary for:

  • Sign the purchase and sale contract.
  • Pay taxes and carry out legal procedures.
  • Open a bank account in Spain.

It can be requested at the police station in Spain or at the Spanish embassy in the buyer's country of residence..

2. Opening a bank account in Spain

Although it is not a mandatory requirement, open one Bank Account in Spain facilitates the property payment process, payment of taxes and direct debit of basic service receipts (agua, luz, community, etc.).

Spanish banks require the following documents to open an account:

  • Valid passport or identification document.
  • NO (in some cases).
  • Proof of income or certificate of economic activity.

If you plan to buy one of the Chalets for sale in Torrevieja, Having a bank account will allow you to manage payments more easily and avoid fees for international transfers.

3. Reservation and deposit contract

Before final purchase, it is common to sign a Reserve contract to ensure that the property is not sold to another buyer while the paperwork is being finalized. Later, is signed AIR CONTRACT, which usually involves paying a percentage of the total price of the property (generally a 10%).

It is essential to have a real estate consultancy to review the contract to avoid abusive clauses and ensure that the purchase is made in a transparent manner.

4. Notary and public writing

The purchase act must be formalized before a notary by signing the Public deed of sale. The notary will verify that:

  • The seller is the legitimate owner.
  • There are no charges or debts on the property.
  • All legal requirements have been met.

After signing, the writing is inscribed in the Property Registration, which guarantees the legal security of the transaction.

5. Taxes and associated expenses

Buying a property in Spain entails a series of taxes and additional expenses that must be considered in the budget. Among the most important are:

  • Property Transfer Tax (ITP): Applies to second-hand homes and varies depending on the autonomous community (in the Valencian Community, ranges between 8% and the 10%).
  • IVA (Value Added Tax): In the case of new housing, The buyer must pay a 10% VAT plus 1,5% of Documented Legal Acts (AJD).
  • Notarial and registration expenses: Approximately between a 1% and a 2% of property value.
  • Real estate agency fees: Normally, These costs are assumed by the seller, but it is important to confirm it before closing the operation.

6. Financing for foreigners

If you need financing for the purchase, Spanish banks offer Non -resident mortgages, generally with stricter conditions than for Spanish citizens. Some aspects to consider are:

  • In general, is financed 60-70% of the value of the home.
  • Must demonstrate stable income and ability to pay.
  • The bank may require additional translated and apostilled documentation.

If your goal is to acquire a property in Spain as an investment, It is advisable to carefully analyze the financing options with the help of a real estate advisor.

7. Requirements for renting the property

If you plan to rent the home after purchasing, You must know the current legislation in the Valencian Community regarding vacation or long-term rentals.. Some key points are:

  • To Tourist rental, A specific license granted by the town hall is required..
  • There are regulations on taxes and withholdings applicable to non-resident owners.
  • It is advisable to have a well-drafted rental agreement and comply with local regulations.

If you are looking Chalets for sale in Torrevieja as investment, It is important to know these regulations to maximize profitability without legal problems.

8. Legal and real estate advice

The best way to avoid unforeseen and ensure a purchase without problems is to have a real estate consultancy specialized in foreign buyers. Professionals in the sector will help you:

  • Review the legality of the property and its registration status.
  • Manage administrative and fiscal procedures.
  • Negotiate the best purchasing conditions.
  • Ensure compliance with Spanish regulations.

Conclusion

Buying a property in Spain as a foreigner is a simple process if you follow the appropriate steps and have professional advice.. Since obtaining the NO until the signing of the deed and the payment of taxes, Each stage is crucial to guarantee a safe purchase free of legal problems.

If you are interested in the houses for sale in Torrevieja, in Mayrasa We have a team of real estate consulting experts to guide you through every step of the process.. Contact us and discover how to make your investment in Spain a reality with complete confidence.

Contact Mayrasa

call 966 263 013

Find the ideal house for you

We help you find the perfect property according to your needs and budget. Our team of experts will advise you at every step of the process so that your purchase is safe., fast and hassle-free.

We accompany you the end

Our commitment does not end with the sale. With our after-sales service, We accompany you in every detail so that the process is simple and worry-free.

Real estate advice to your measure

Let yourself be guided by our experts and get the best purchasing advice, sale or rental of properties. We know the market and we offer you personalized solutions so that you can make strategic decisions with confidence and security..

Drive your property with our services

Select the service you need and our team of experts will contact you to offer you the best strategy. From real estate marketing to professional photography or virtual tour, we help you stand out in the market.

Discover the real value of your home

Leave us your details and our team of experts will analyze your property to offer you an accurate valuation based on the current market. We help you make the best decision to sell successfully.

Ready to sell?

We help you at each step to get the best price

Leave us your information and one of our experts will contact you to advise you on each step of the sales process and obtain the best conditions..

Contact our team

Leave us your message and our team will contact you to help you with any real estate needs.

Contact Reform Experts

To increase the value of your home in record time

Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.