Want to secure financing before setting foot in Spain? Many foreign buyers get pre-approved for a Spanish mortgage remotely — giving them confidence when making an offer and speeding up the purchase process. Here’s how non-residents can obtain mortgage pre-approval from abroad, including the steps, paperwork, and legal tips.
✅ What Is Mortgage Pre-Approval?
Pre-approval (or precalificación hipotecaria) is a non-binding offer from a Spanish bank confirming:
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You meet their lending criteria
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How much they’re willing to lend
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What your estimated interest rate and terms will be
📌 Pre-approval gives you negotiating power when making an offer on a property.
🌍 Can You Apply From Abroad?
Yes — most Spanish banks allow foreign buyers to apply remotely, provided you:
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Have a valid passport
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Obtain a Spanish NIE (Foreigner ID)
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Provide all financial documentation
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Can sign digitally or via courier
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Use legal representation if needed
🧾 Documents Required for Pre-Approval
| Document | Required? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Passport / National ID | ✅ | Certified copy may be required |
| Spanish NIE | ✅ | Mandatory for any real estate transaction |
| Proof of income | ✅ | Payslips, pension, rental income, etc. |
| Tax returns | ✅ | Typically 1–2 years |
| Credit report | ✅ | From your home country |
| Bank statements | ✅ | 3–6 months |
| Proof of assets or savings | ✅ | Especially if self-employed |
| Property details (if chosen) | ☑️ | Optional at pre-approval stage |
📌 Documents must usually be translated into Spanish and may need apostille/legalization.
🖥️ How the Remote Process Works
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Choose a Bank or Broker
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Work with a bank that handles non-resident clients
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Or use a mortgage broker who compares offers for you
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Submit Financial Documentation
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Send digital copies by email
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Some banks may require certified paper copies later
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Get Pre-Approval Letter
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Usually within 7–15 business days
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Valid for 1–3 months depending on the bank
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Use It to Secure a Property
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You can negotiate or reserve a home with a strong offer backed by financing
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Finalize Mortgage After Valuation
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Once you choose a home, the bank will order a formal property valuation
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Then the mortgage is officially approved (and binding)
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🏦 Which Banks Offer Remote Pre-Approval?
| Bank | Remote Pre-Approval? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sabadell | ✅ Yes | English-speaking mortgage team |
| CaixaBank | ✅ Yes | Online process for foreigners |
| Bankinter | ✅ Yes | Good for self-employed buyers |
| Santander | ✅ Yes | May require more paperwork for US buyers |
| Cajasur | ☑️ Possible | Regional – slower response time |
🔐 Legal Tip: Grant Power of Attorney (PoA)
If you want to close remotely, your Spanish lawyer can:
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Open a Spanish bank account
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Submit your NIE application
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Sign the mortgage and property deed on your behalf
💡 This can save you weeks of travel and paperwork.
💸 Does Pre-Approval Guarantee a Mortgage?
Not always. It depends on:
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Final property valuation
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Updated income documents
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Compliance checks (especially for US or high-risk nationalities)
📌 Pre-approval is not binding until the property and all documents are verified.
❓ FAQs
Do I need to be in Spain for pre-approval?
No — the entire process can be done from abroad via email, phone, and courier.
Can I pre-approve before having a property?
Yes — it’s recommended to get pre-approved first, so you know your budget.
How long is pre-approval valid?
Typically 1–3 months, but you can request an update or extension.
🤝 How We Help
At Borderless Lawyers, we help non-resident buyers:
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Collect and legalize documents
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Apply for mortgage pre-approval from abroad
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Review offers and terms in your language
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Sign all documents remotely via power of attorney
👉 Ready to buy in Spain? Book a consultation and let us handle your mortgage pre-approval.