Thinking about buying a holiday home, a retirement retreat, or an investment property in sunny Spain? You’re not alone. Spain remains one of the most attractive destinations for property buyers from across the EU thanks to its golden beaches, excellent infrastructure, and high quality of life.
As of 2025, the buying process is straightforward for EU citizens, but it still involves important legal steps and financial planning. Here’s the definitive guide to buying property in Spain in 2025 — accurate, up-to-date, and based on trustworthy sources.
Can EU Citizens Buy Property in Spain?
Yes! EU citizens can purchase property in Spain without restrictions. You have the same property rights as Spanish nationals. The process is safe and highly regulated, provided you follow the correct legal steps.
👉 Source: Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Step-by-Step Guide to Buying a Property in Spain
Find you property
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1. Get Your NIE Number
You must obtain an NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) — a personal identification and tax number for foreigners. You can apply at a police station in Spain or through a Spanish consulate in your home country.
2. Open a Spanish Bank Account
Although not mandatory, most payments (including taxes) must be made from a Spanish account.
3. Reserve Your Property
Once you find the right property, sign a reservation agreement and pay a small deposit to secure it (typically €3,000 to €12,000).
4. Legal Due Diligence
Hire an independent Spanish lawyer to check the land registry, debts, and licenses.
5. Sign the Private Purchase Contract
A contrato de arras will lock in the deal and typically requires a 10% deposit.
6. Complete the Sale at the Notary
Sign the escritura pública at a Spanish notary office, transfer the remaining funds, and receive your title deed.
7. Register Your Property
The final step is registering your property at the Registro de la Propiedad (Land Registry).
Taxes and Fees You Should Know
- Resale Properties: Transfer Tax (ITP) of 6–10% (varies by region)
- New Properties: VAT (IVA) of 10% + Stamp Duty (AJD) of approx. 1.5%
- Notary + Registry Fees: Usually 1–2.5% of the property price
- Lawyer fees: Around 1%–2% of the property price
Total additional purchase costs: Approx. 10%–15% of purchase price.
Can International Buyers Get a Mortgage?
Yes. Spanish banks offer mortgages to EU residents, typically covering up to 70% of the property’s value.
You’ll need:
- Passport
- NIE
- Proof of income
- Bank statements
- Credit report
What’s Changed in 2025?
- Golden Visa Ending: Spain has announced the end of the Golden Visa programme for non-EU nationals in 2025.
- New Proposals for Non-EU Buyers: A potential 100% tax on property purchases by non-EU investors was discussed in 2025 (still under review).
- No Changes for EU Buyers: EU citizens continue to enjoy full property rights without extra restrictions.
Ongoing Obligations
- IBI (Property Tax): Annual local tax
- IRNR (Non-Resident Income Tax): If renting out your property or for deemed income
- Community Fees: If your property belongs to a complex
👉 Official municipal taxation info: Spanish Ministry of Finance
Do EU Buyers Need a Visa to Live in Spain?
No, EU citizens have the right to live and work in Spain. If staying over 90 days, you must register as a resident locally.
👉 Residency info: EU Immigration Portal
Final Thoughts
Spain remains one of the safest and most attractive places for EU citizens to buy property. It offers incredible lifestyle benefits and stable legal protections. Always work with independent legal and financial professionals, and use only licensed real estate agents.
Ready to start your journey? Explore our Costa Blanca Area Guide and Costa del Sol Area Guide to find your perfect place in the sun.