The Costa Blanca, with its 300 days of sunshine, blue flag beaches, and Mediterranean charm, has become one of the top destinations in Europe for foreign property buyers. Whether you’re planning to relocate, invest, or secure a vacation home, buying property in Spain as a non-resident is entirely possible — but it comes with a few formalities.
This complete guide will walk you through each step of the process, from obtaining your NIE to opening a bank account and understanding the costs involved. Plus, we’ve included practical tips and real examples to help you make confident, informed decisions.
(Número de Identificación de Extranjero)
Your NIE is your foreigner’s identification number in Spain, and it is essential for any legal or financial transaction, including buying real estate, paying taxes, and connecting utilities.
TIP:
Start the NIE process early — especially during peak seasons. It can take 2 to 6 weeks depending on the location and method of application.
How to Apply:
In Spain: Visit a National Police station (with appointment).
From abroad: Apply at the nearest Spanish consulate.
Through a lawyer or power of attorney: Many foreign buyers opt to give legal representation to speed up the process.
Example:
Many of our clients from the UK and Germany choose to grant power of attorney to a local lawyer, allowing them to obtain the NIE and even complete the purchase remotely.
A Spanish bank account is required for:
Transferring your funds for the property purchase
Paying notary, taxes, and utility bills
Setting up direct debits for services like water, electricity, and internet
Most banks in Costa Blanca are familiar with foreign clients and offer multilingual service.
Documents typically required:
Passport
NIE
Proof of income (pay slips, pension, or bank statements)
Proof of address (e.g., utility bill)
TIP:
Choose a bank with English-speaking staff and online banking options. CaixaBank, Sabadell, and BBVA often have international branches and "Expat" services.
Besides the sale price of the property, expect to pay an additional 10% to 14% in taxes and fees. If you're buying a high-end property — particularly one over €1,000,000 — be aware that transfer tax rates may increase.
Main Expenses:
| Concept | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Property Transfer Tax (ITP) | 10% (for resale homes under €1M in the Valencian Community) |
| VAT (IVA) | 10% (for new-builds) |
| Notary Fees | €500 – €1,200 |
| Land Registry | €400 – €1,000 |
| Legal Fees | €1,000 – €2,500 |
| Mortgage Setup Fees (if applicable) | ~1% |
Higher ITP Rates for Luxury Homes in Costa Blanca (Valencian Community):
If the property is over €1,000,000, a progressive tax rate may apply:
10% on the first €1,000,000
11% on the portion between €1,000,000 and €2,000,000
12% on the portion above €2,000,000
Example:
A buyer purchasing a €1,500,000 luxury villa in Altea would pay:
10% on the first €1,000,000 = €100,000
11% on the remaining €500,000 = €55,000
Total ITP: €155,000 (instead of €150,000 at a flat 10%)
TIP:
Your lawyer or agent should provide a personalized tax estimate depending on the location and property value, especially for luxury or high-net-worth purchases.
Although it’s not a legal requirement to hire a lawyer, it is highly recommended. A specialized real estate lawyer will:
Perform due diligence on the property (title, debt, licenses)
Ensure all paperwork is correct
Handle contracts and payments
Protect your interests if you’re buying remotely
TIP:
Avoid using only the seller’s lawyer or a generalist. Choose a local lawyer with property law experience, especially if you don’t speak Spanish.
Once all documents are in order and the deposit is paid (usually 10%), you’ll sign the Escritura Pública de Compraventa at a Spanish notary.
The balance of the payment is transferred that day, and the property officially becomes yours.
TIP:
If you can’t be present, your lawyer (via power of attorney) can sign on your behalf.
Once the sale is complete, your lawyer or gestor will:
Register the property in your name at the Land Registry
Change the name on utilities and community fees
Arrange tax payments
TIP:
Consider hiring a property manager if you won’t live in Spain year-round. They can check the home regularly, handle maintenance, and manage rentals if needed.
Buying property in Costa Blanca as a foreigner is a straightforward and rewarding process when handled with care and local expertise. From sunny beachfront apartments to luxury villas with sea views, the region offers a wide range of opportunities.
At La Boutique Luxury Real Estate, we don’t just sell homes — we guide our international clients through every step of the buying journey, offering peace of mind, expert advice, and seamless service.
Contact us today to discover exclusive homes in Jávea, Altea, Moraira, Dénia, and other prime locations across the Costa Blanca.
Your Mediterranean dream home is waiting.
BIO. Alba Lopez is a world traveler with roots in Spain and Germany. Born in Valencia and raised in Spain, she inherited a love for different cultures from her German mother. At an early age, she left her home country to explore life abroad, living in Ireland and Germany for several years. These experiences shaped her perspective and deepened her appreciation for diverse ways of life. Now back on the sunny Costa Blanca, Alba enjoys sharing stories about travel, culture, and the beauty of returning home.
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