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 (15-45%), Value Added Tax VAT (21%), property tax IBI, and environmental property tax. 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 a property transfer tax paid by buyers when purchasing second-hand real estate. The rate varies by region from 6% to 10% of the purchase price. For example, Catalonia charges 5%, Madrid 6%, other regions 7-10%. ITP must be paid within 30 days of contract signing. This is a significant expense that must be budgeted when purchasing property.

VAT of 21% applies to new properties (less than 3 years old) as a first sale. VAT is paid instead of ITP on new construction. The tax is included in the purchase contract. Properties must be officially registered as a first sale to qualify for VAT treatment. VAT applies to apartments, homes, and commercial properties.

Beyond ITP/VAT, there are: notary fees (0.5-1%), land registry fees (0.1%), survey costs (0.4-0.6%), legal fees (1-2%), title search, inspection, and insurance. Total additional costs typically range from 8-12% of purchase price. Always calculate exact amounts in advance. These costs are in addition to the property price and should be budgeted separately.

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.