Short answer: there are no restrictions on foreigners buying property in Spain. You need an NIE (foreigner identification number) and a Spanish bank account, and you should budget roughly 10–13% of the price for taxes and fees. Work with an independent lawyer from the start.
1. Get your NIE and a Spanish bank account
The NIE is the tax identification number every foreign buyer needs to sign, pay taxes and register the property. A Spanish bank account makes paying the price, taxes and later the utility bills much simpler.
2. Set your budget, including costs
On top of the purchase price, budget around 10–13% for taxes and fees: transfer tax (ITP) on resale homes or VAT on new builds, plus notary, land registry and legal fees. If you need a mortgage, speak to the bank before you make an offer.
3. Choose the area and the property
Decide first how you want to live: village, beach or urbanisation. Our comparison of Mijas Pueblo, La Cala and Mijas Costa and the area guides help narrow it down.
4. Legal checks before you commit
Your lawyer checks, among other things, that the seller owns the property and it is free of debts and charges (land registry), that it is legal from a planning point of view, and that community fees and local taxes are paid up. If you plan to rent to tourists, check the licence situation for that specific property before buying.
5. Reservation and private contract
It is common to take the property off the market with a reservation deposit and then sign a private purchase contract with a larger deposit. Read the conditions for getting the deposit back carefully: your lawyer should review every document before you sign or pay.
6. Signing at the notary and registration
The sale is completed by signing the deed (escritura) before a Spanish notary, paying the rest of the price and receiving the keys. Afterwards the taxes are paid and the deed is registered in the land registry in your name.
After the purchase
Switch the utilities and community fees to your name and set up direct debits. If you are thinking about renting, read what to check before investing in Mijas.
This article is general information, not legal or tax advice. For your specific case, talk to a local advisor.
