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FAQ: living in and buying property in Spain

1. Can a Polish citizen buy property in Spain?

Yes. Polish citizens can legally buy property in Spain without any restrictions. All you need is an NIE number, a passport and a bank account in Spain.

2. What is an NIE number in Spain?

The NIE is the Spanish identification number for foreigners. It is required to buy property, open a bank account or sign a notarial deed. More information: the NIE number.

3. How much does buying in Spain cost on top of the price of the property?

You should add around 10–14% of additional costs to the price of the property, such as:

  • taxes,
  • notary,
  • land registry entry,
  • translations,
  • legal services.

Details: how much it costs to buy a property.

4. Can I buy a home in Spain with a mortgage?

Yes. Spanish banks also lend to foreigners. For non-residents, financing is usually 60% to 70% of the value of the property. More information: mortgages for non-residents.

5. How long does buying a property in Spain take?

The whole process can take anything from a few days to a few weeks, or even a few months, depending on the documents, the financing and the state of the property.

6. Is buying property in Spain safe?

Yes, provided the documents are properly checked and you work with a professional estate agent and a lawyer.

7. What taxes are paid when buying property in Spain?

The amount of tax depends on the region and the type of property. On resale properties ITP usually applies; on new-build properties, VAT and stamp duty. More information: taxes in Spain.

8. Do I need a bank account in Spain?

In most cases, yes. A bank account makes it easier to handle payments for the purchase and for the later upkeep of the property.

9. Can I buy a property remotely?

Yes. The purchase can also be done through a power of attorney, without having to be permanently in Spain.

10. Where should I buy property in Spain?

Popular regions among Poles are:

  • Costa Blanca,
  • Costa del Sol,
  • Costa Cálida,
  • Valencia,
  • Alicante,
  • Torrevieja,
  • Costa Azahar.

Each location has its own advantages, from investing for rental to a quiet life by the sea.

11. Is life in Spain expensive?

The cost of living in Spain depends on the region and lifestyle. In many places, especially on the Costa Blanca or the Costa Cálida, daily expenses can be lower than in big cities in Poland. The main influences on cost are:

  • renting or maintaining a property,
  • restaurants,
  • transport,
  • private healthcare,
  • bills and utilities.

Many people choose Spain for the climate, a calmer lifestyle and greater everyday comfort.

12. How much does it cost to maintain a home in Spain?

The cost of maintaining a property in Spain depends on the location, the size and the standard of the building. Usually you need to allow for:

  • the community fees,
  • electricity and water,
  • internet,
  • property tax (IBI),
  • home insurance.

For holiday apartments there are also rental management or cleaning costs.

13. Is it worth investing in property in Spain?

For many investors Spain is an interesting destination because of:

  • strong interest in holiday rentals,
  • the growing popularity of the Costa Blanca and the Costa del Sol,
  • the chance to use the property for part of the year,
  • possible growth in the value of the property (which is not guaranteed).

What matters most, however, is choosing the right location and type of property, and analysing running costs and potential rental income.

14. What is retirement in Spain like?

More and more people decide to spend their retirement in Spain because of:

  • the mild climate for most of the year,
  • a calmer lifestyle,
  • access to the sea and to infrastructure,
  • lower stress levels,
  • an active lifestyle and plenty of sunny days.

Popular regions among retirees include the Costa Blanca, Alicante, Torrevieja and Valencia. More about benefits: pensions in Spain.

15. Is Spain safe?

Spain is regarded as one of the safer countries in Europe to live and holiday in. As in any tourist country, it is wise to be careful in crowded places and popular resorts.

Many people choose Spain not only for holidays but also to live permanently, precisely because of the comfort, the climate and the sense of safety.

16. How do I rent out an apartment to tourists in Spain?

Tourist rental is very popular in Spain, especially in coastal regions. To rent an apartment legally to tourists you usually need:

  • the relevant permits or a tourist licence,
  • registration of the property,
  • compliance with the region's local requirements.

Rules differ between autonomous communities, so before buying it is worth checking the rental options in the specific location.

Do you have more questions about living in or buying property in Spain?

Joanna Sikorska, Sun Team Property
Phone and WhatsApp: +34 636 16 49 16

Need a more specific offer? Get in touch.