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Yes, foreigners can buy property in Spain with no general restrictions, whether EU or non-EU nationals, although special permits may be required for homes in protected or military zones. The process involves obtaining a NIE number, opening a Spanish bank account, signing reservation and purchase contracts, completing the deed before a notary, and registering ownership in the Land Registry. Buyers must pay purchase taxes (Transfer Tax or VAT + Stamp Duty), notary/registry/legal fees, and ongoing annual taxes such as IBI (local property tax), non-resident income tax, and potentially wealth tax. Mortgages are available to foreigners, usually up to 60–70% loan-to-value. While Spain’s Golden Visa program has been abolished, ownership does not grant residency, and proposals are under discussion to impose a 100% tax on non-EU buyers, so monitoring legislative updates is crucial. At Green Villas Estate, we are here to guide our clients through every step of the buying process, ensuring a smooth, secure, and professional experience.

The first step to buying property in Spain is obtaining a NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjeros), which is a unique identification number required for all legal, financial, and tax transactions in the country, including property purchases. Without an NIE, you cannot sign contracts, pay taxes, or register ownership. It can be obtained either in Spain at a police station or through a Spanish consulate abroad, usually by submitting a valid passport, the official EX-15 application form, and proof of your intention to buy property. Once the NIE is secured, you can proceed to open a Spanish bank account, reserve a property, and carry out legal due diligence. At Green Villas Estate, we assist our clients from this very first step, ensuring all documentation is in order and guiding them seamlessly through the entire buying process

While it is not legally mandatory to have a Spanish bank account to buy property, it is highly recommended and in many cases practically necessary. A local account makes it easier to pay the deposit, final balance at the notary, and all related taxes and fees, since many authorities and service providers require payments from a Spanish bank. It is also very useful for managing ongoing expenses such as utilities, community fees, property taxes (IBI), and insurance through automatic direct debits. Most Spanish banks will ask for your NIE number, passport, and proof of income or employment to open the account. At Green Villas Estate, we guide our clients through the account opening process and ensure all financial arrangements are in place for a smooth property purchase and future management.

Yes, financing is available for international buyers in Spain, as many Spanish banks offer mortgages to non-residents, though with stricter conditions than for locals. Typically, banks will finance 60–70% of the property value (sometimes up to 80% for EU citizens), and mortgage terms generally range from 15 to 25 years. Lenders will require documentation such as your passport, NIE number, proof of income, bank statements, credit history, and tax returns. Interest rates and approval conditions may vary depending on your nationality, residency status, and financial profile. Buyers should also factor in mortgage arrangement fees and associated costs. At Green Villas Estate, we work closely with trusted banks and mortgage brokers to help our clients secure the best financing options, making the buying process smooth and transparent.