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How to Buy Property in Spain as a Polish Citizen: Step-by-Step Guide

Dreaming of a house or apartment in Spain but not sure where to start? Good news: as a Polish citizen you can buy property in Spain without major restrictions, and it is simpler than you might think.

This guide explains step by step how the buying process works, what it costs and what to watch out for to avoid mistakes.

Can a Polish citizen buy property in Spain?

Yes. As a citizen of the European Union you have the same rights as a Spaniard in this respect. You can buy, with no special permit required:

  • a flat
  • a house
  • a holiday apartment
  • an investment property

How to buy property in Spain, step by step

Step 1: the NIE number (compulsory)

The NIE is the foreigner's identification number in Spain. Without it you cannot:

  • buy a property
  • sign the deed before a notary
  • pay taxes

You can apply for it in Spain, at the consulate in Poland, or with our help: we can assist you in obtaining it quickly in Spain.

Step 2: choosing the property

At this stage you choose the offer that best fits:

  • your budget
  • the location (Costa Blanca, Costa Cálida, Valencia, etc.)
  • your purpose (investment or personal use)

Once you have chosen, you sign a reservation agreement and pay a deposit.

Step 3: checking the property (essential)

This is the most important moment in the whole process. We check:

  • the legal status (no charges or debts)
  • the owner
  • the documentation

These checks greatly reduce the risk of the purchase.

Step 4: the preliminary contract

You pay around 10% of the property's value. Typically:

  • if the seller withdraws, they return double the amount received
  • if you withdraw, you lose what you paid

The exact terms depend on what the contract says, so it should be reviewed before you sign.

Step 5: completion before a notary

You sign the public deed and become the owner. You receive the keys and can enjoy the property or rent it out.

How much does it cost to buy property in Spain?

On top of the purchase price you need to budget for:

  • taxes
  • the notary
  • the land registry
  • a lawyer

In total, costs usually come to around 12% to 15% of the property's value; the exact percentage depends on the area and the type of purchase (new build or resale).

How much deposit do you need?

If you plan to take out a mortgage in Spain, the bank typically finances 60% to 70% of the value, which means you need:

  • a deposit of 30% to 40%
  • plus the purchase costs

In practice, expect to need roughly 40-50% of the property's value up front. If you would like the tax details, ask us.

The most common mistakes

  • not understanding the process
  • not checking the property
  • underestimating the costs
  • going it alone without support on the ground

This is where buyers most often lose money, which is why it pays to have someone on the spot to guide you through the whole process.

Is it worth buying in Spain in 2026?

There are several reasons to think so:

  • strong rental demand
  • more than 300 days of sunshine a year
  • lifestyle and investment in one

Prices have risen in recent years, so each area should be assessed with up-to-date data.

Summary

Buying property in Spain is safe and open to Polish citizens, but it takes a good strategy and a sound understanding of the process. Done well, you gain not only a property but also quality of life and a stable investment.

At Sun Team Property we help clients from Poland buy in Spain from start to finish, without stress and, as we understand it, without a commission for the buyer. Write to us and we will show you the best offers for your budget, or browse the properties for sale.