Barcelona continues to rank among Europe’s most attractive cities for property buyers—whether you're looking for a second home, an investment opportunity, or a permanent residence. The good news? Buying property in Barcelona is not only possible for foreigners, it’s also surprisingly straightforward.
Still, it helps to understand the process before diving in. Here’s a clear breakdown of what you’ll need and what to expect along the way.
Yes—foreigners can freely buy property in Spain, including in Barcelona. This applies to both EU and non-EU citizens. There are no restrictions, which is one reason Barcelona draws so much international interest.
The first thing you’ll need is a Spanish tax identification number for foreigners, known as a NIE. This is required for virtually all official transactions in Spain, including buying property. You can apply for one in Spain or through the Spanish consulate in your home country.
You’ll need a local bank account to handle payments related to the purchase—such as deposits, taxes, utilities, and mortgage payments if you finance the property.
Start by narrowing down your search based on key criteria:
Desired location (central Barcelona, coastal areas, up-and-coming neighborhoods)
Budget range
Property type (apartment, house, new build, resale)
Purpose (personal use, long-term rental, holiday let)
Before signing anything, make sure the property is free of legal or financial complications. Key checks include:
Ownership and title verification
Any outstanding debts (e.g., mortgages, community fees)
Valid licenses and building permits
Legal status and structural condition of the property
It’s highly recommended to work with an independent local lawyer to guide you through this stage.
Once you’ve found the right property, you’ll typically pay a small reservation fee to take it off the market. After completing due diligence, a Contrato de Arras (private purchase agreement) is signed, and you’ll usually put down around 10% of the total price.
This contract outlines the terms of the sale, including a completion timeline and penalties if either party pulls out.
The purchase is finalized in front of a Spanish notary. During this meeting:
You’ll pay the remaining balance
Both parties sign the official deed of sale (Escritura Pública de Compraventa)
Ownership is registered with the Spanish Land Registry
At this point, the property is officially yours.
Yes, many Spanish banks offer mortgages to non-residents. However, the terms may differ slightly compared to resident buyers.
Typical loan-to-value (LTV) ratios are around 60%–70%
Lenders require proof of stable income and financial health
Be prepared to submit more documentation than locals would
It’s wise to consult with a mortgage advisor who works with international clients.
Besides the property price, you should budget an additional 10% to 13% to cover purchase-related costs. These may include:
Property Transfer Tax (ITP): 6%–13% for resale properties
VAT (IVA): 10% on new properties
Notary and legal fees
Land registry fees
Mortgage arrangement fees (if applicable)
Exact figures vary depending on the region and the type of property.
Buying property in Barcelona as a foreigner is very doable—and increasingly popular. The key is to approach the process with good advice and proper preparation. Whether you're drawn by the city’s culture, climate, or investment potential, owning real estate in Barcelona can be a smart and rewarding move.