Can foreigners buy property in Spain?

Yes. There is no general ban on foreigners buying property in Spain, and you do not need to be a resident. Overseas buyers can buy freehold in their own name. You will need a Spanish tax number (an NIE) and, in practice, an independent Spanish lawyer.

Buying a home does not give you the right to live in Spain. That is a separate question, covered on our residency page. What it does give you is ownership of the property, which you can use, rent out, leave to your family or sell.

Before you sign anything you need an NIE (foreigner identification number), a Spanish bank account, and a lawyer who works for you rather than for the seller or developer. Make sure the lawyer speaks your language; GOV.UK, for example, recommends an English-speaking lawyer when buying in Spain.

General information, not legal or tax advice. Rules and figures were last checked in November 2026 and change, so take independent advice from a Spanish lawyer for your own purchase.