International Buyer's Guide

To move to Spain, you'll need: a valid passport, visa (if required), health insurance documents, criminal record clearance certificate, and proof of financial means. EU citizens only need a valid passport. We recommend consulting with an immigration lawyer for your specific situation. The requirements vary depending on your nationality and visa type.

A NIE is essential for tax purposes in Spain. You can obtain it at the local Policía Nacional office or through a Spanish consulate in your home country. The process typically takes 1-2 weeks. You'll need your passport, completed form EX-15, and proof of address. NIE is mandatory before purchasing property in Spain.

Yes, opening a Spanish bank account is highly recommended. It's necessary for paying taxes, utilities, and conducting daily financial operations. Most banks require a NIE. The account opening process usually takes a few days and requires your passport or ID card. Many banks also offer additional services like mortgage brokerage.

You must register at your local municipality's Registro de Habitantes. Required documents include a rental or property ownership contract, identification, and a completed form. This registration grants you voting rights and access to public services. It's recommended to do this immediately upon arrival in Spain.

Spanish residents pay: income tax IRPF (19–47%), VAT (IVA) at 21% on most goods and services, and the annual municipal property tax (IBI). Tax rates depend on income and property type. You must file an annual tax return (declaración de la renta) by June 30th. Self-employed individuals also pay monthly social security contributions.

IRPF (Personal Income Tax) uses a progressive scale from 19% to 45%. Rates in 2024: up to €12,450 - 19%, €12,451-€20,200 - 21%, €20,201-€35,200 - 25%, €35,201-€60,000 - 30%, €60,001-€300,000 - 37%, over €300,000 - 45%. Non-residents pay a flat 19% tax on Spanish-source income.

The trabajo deduction is a tax allowance for employees. In 2024, it's €2,000 per year for salaried workers. It's automatically applied when filing your tax return. Self-employed individuals can claim different deductions related to their business expenses. These deductions significantly reduce your taxable base.

Yes, pensioners pay IRPF on their pension income at the same rates as employees. However, there are specific deductions designed for pensioners. Additionally, social security contributions on pensions are partially deductible, reducing the taxable base. Many pensioners benefit from a lower overall tax burden due to these allowances.

The main income tax return is filed once annually by June 30th. However, other taxes are paid differently: VAT quarterly for businesses, employment taxes monthly via payroll deductions, property tax IBI once yearly in April-May, and self-employed contributions monthly. Quarterly and monthly payments are required for various business operations.

Foreigners generally need residency permission to work in Spain. EU citizens can work freely. Non-EU citizens must obtain a work visa and register with social security. Self-employed individuals can work under an economic activity visa. Work authorization is tied to your visa type and employment contract. Always verify current regulations with immigration authorities.

ITP is the transfer tax paid by the buyer of a resale home. Each region sets its own rate. Catalonia has applied a progressive scale since 27 June 2025: 10% up to €600,000, 11% on the portion from €600,001 to €900,000, 12% from €900,001 to €1,500,000 and 13% above €1,500,000. The rate is derived from the value of the whole property, so co-buyers do not each get the lowest band. It is payable within 30 days of completion. Full breakdown in our guide to the real cost of buying in Spain. Correct as of August 2026.

A newly built home bought from the developer carries VAT (IVA) at 10% of the price, plus stamp duty (AJD), which in Catalonia is 1.5% — about 11.5% in total, and it does not rise with value the way ITP does. The 21% rate applies to land and commercial property, not to housing. VAT is paid instead of ITP on a first sale. Correct as of August 2026.

On top of ITP or VAT, budget for notary fees (typically €600–€1,200), Land Registry fees (€400–€1,000), legal fees (around 1% for a prime purchase), a gestoría, and valuation if you are financing. All in, a foreign buyer should plan for roughly 10–14% of the purchase price above the price itself, and the upper end above €1.5M, because the transfer tax is progressive. Correct as of August 2026.

Yes, capital gains tax applies when selling property if it wasn't your main residence for 3+ years. Tax rates depend on holding period and buyer status. You also pay notary and registry fees (approximately 1% of sale price). Non-residents pay 19% on gains. Proper documentation helps minimize your tax liability during the sale.

No tax deduction exists for mortgage interest on your primary residence since 2013. However, if you obtained a mortgage before 2012, you may still claim the deduction (maximum 15% of interest, up to €9,040/year). For rental properties, mortgage interest can be deducted as a business expense. Consult a tax advisor for your specific situation.

Standard real estate commission in Spain typically starts at 6% of the sale price. This rate may be adjusted downward in exceptional cases, depending on the transaction complexity and high asset value. The exact fee structure is always formalized in the agency agreement.

The seller typically pays the commission, which is then split between the seller's agent and buyer's agent. However, in some cases, the buyer may negotiate a separate arrangement. Always clarify this in the exclusivity agreement before starting. With multiple agents involved, they coordinate commission distribution.

No, the property price and agent commission are separate expenses. The advertised price (precio de venta) excludes commission. Commission is calculated separately from this price. In some cases, commission may be included in a mortgage loan amount, but this should be explicitly stated.

Yes, agent commission is always negotiable, especially for high-value properties. Typically, offers start at 6% and can be renegotiated upon agreement. Real estate agencies often have flexible commission structures for significant transactions.

A buyer's agent typically provides: property search assistance, price evaluation, document verification, contract negotiation, property inspection, document preparation, notary and bank coordination, and support through closing. A good agent helps prevent fraud and title complications. We provide a detailed service proposal outlining all offerings customized to your specific needs and requirements.

No, we work worldwide. Thanks to CENTURY 21's global network, we provide comprehensive real estate services across multiple countries and continents. Whether you're looking to invest internationally or relocate globally, our network of specialists is ready to assist you with any real estate needs.

Yes, we facilitate mortgage and financing solutions for our clients. We partner with Spain's leading banks and international lenders to secure competitive rates. Our specialists guide you through every step: document preparation, bank selection, application submission, and final approval. Spanish mortgages, cross-border solutions, or international credit, we handle all processes. You choose the property, we handle everything else to make your dream a reality.

The typical property purchase timeline in Spain is 4-8 weeks from offer to closing. This includes: offer and acceptance (1 week), due diligence and financing (2-3 weeks), notary preparation (1-2 weeks), and final closing (1 week). Complex transactions or financing arrangements may extend the timeline. Upon receiving your request, we'll provide a detailed timeline customized to your situation.

We provide comprehensive post-purchase support including: property registration assistance, tax compliance guidance, property management services, rental coordination, and ongoing investment advisory. Our concierge team supports relocation, home setup, and vendor connections. Our relationship extends well beyond closing, we remain your dedicated advisor throughout the ownership experience.