How to buy a property in Andalusia as a British citizen

For a British citizen to buy a property in Andalusia, the process has changed slightly since Brexit, as British citizens are now considered third-country nationals (outside the EU).

Here are the main steps and requirements in addition to the NIE:

1. Obtaining the NIE (Foreigner’s Identity Number)

As you rightly mention, this is the indispensable first step. It is the tax number that identifies you to the Spanish tax authorities and is necessary to sign any contract, register for utilities, or pay taxes. It can be requested at the Spanish Consulate in the United Kingdom or at a police station in Spain. Normally, it is easier to obtain if the deposit or reservation contract has already been signed. You can ask for it in your own country in any Spanish conslulate nearby.

2. Bank account in Spain

Although it is not strictly mandatory by law, in practice it is essential. You will need a local account to transfer the purchase funds, pay notary fees, and, most importantly, set up direct debits for taxes (IBI) and utility bills (electricity, water, community) once you are the owner.

3. Legal Representation (Lawyer)

In Spain, unlike in the United Kingdom, the notary does not carry out an exhaustive investigation of the property. It is highly recommended to hire a local lawyer to carry out Due Diligence: verification of charges, debts in the community, urban legality, and that the property is correctly registered in the Property Registry. Normally is also done by the Reral Estate, and afterwards, the Notaria tells you f all is fine. But is not a bad idea to have a lawyer check all.

4. Additional Documentation

Valid passport: Main identity document.

Proof of funds: Due to anti-money laundering laws, you must prove the origin of the money (bank documents, tax declarations in the UK, etc.).

Visa (Only if you are going to reside): You do not need a visa to buy, but if you plan to stay more than 90 days out of every 180, you must process a residence visa (such as the Golden Visa if the investment is greater than €500,000, although the laws regarding this are under review, or a Non-Lucrative Residence).

5. Contracts and Expenses

Arras Contract: This is a reservation contract where a deposit is handed over (normally 10%). If the buyer backs out, they lose the money; if it is the seller, they must return double.

Public Deed: Signed before a Notary.

Taxes (Andalusia):

If it is a new home: VAT (10%) + AJD (Documented Legal Acts).

If it is second-hand: ITP (Property Transfer Tax), which in Andalusia has a general rate of 7%.

6. Summarized steps:

-Request the NIE.

-Hire a lawyer specializing in Spanish real estate law.

-Open a Spanish bank account.

-Carry out the search and legal check of the property (verify if it requires a military permit).

-Sign the arras contract.

-Signing of the deed before a notary and payment of the remaining price.

-Registration in the Property Registry and change of ownership of taxes and supplies.