Best Spanish Banks for Non-Resident Mortgages – Compared

Not all Spanish banks treat non-resident buyers the same. Some specialize in serving international clients with dedicated English-speaking teams and competitive offers. In this article, we compare the best Spanish banks for non-resident mortgages, including their conditions, pros, and cons.

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🏦 Top Banks Offering Non-Resident Mortgages

Here are the most popular and foreigner-friendly banks in Spain for non-residents:

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1. Banco Sabadell

✅ Known for working extensively with foreign buyers
✅ English-speaking mortgage advisors
✅ Streamlined process for non-residents

Typical Offer:

• LTV: up to 70%

• Fixed or variable options

• Requires NIE and proof of income

• Online pre-approval possible

💬 Best for: EU buyers and retirees looking for simplicity

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2. CaixaBank

✅ One of the largest retail banks in Spain
✅ Offers mortgage packages specifically for non-residents
✅ Extensive branch network

Typical Offer:

• LTV: 60–70%

• Good digital tools for document submission

• Requires Spanish bank account

💬 Best for: Buyers who want flexibility and strong online services

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3. Bankinter

✅ Smaller bank with competitive rates
✅ More flexible with self-employed or entrepreneurial buyers
✅ Some English-speaking staff in major cities

Typical Offer:

• Fixed and variable rates available

• Strong for medium-term loans

• Efficient approval timeline

💬 Best for: Experienced buyers or investors

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4. Santander

✅ Globally recognized bank
✅ Offers expat-friendly mortgage terms
✅ Competitive fixed-rate options

Typical Offer:

• Up to 65% LTV

• Slightly stricter documentation process

• Requires strong income proof

💬 Best for: Buyers from the UK, USA, or Latin America

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5. Cajasur

✅ Regional bank popular in southern Spain (Andalusia)
✅ More flexible in property types (rural homes, rustic land)
✅ Personalized service

Typical Offer:

• LTV: up to 70%

• May require higher deposit for non-EU citizens

• Fewer digital tools

💬 Best for: Buyers in Málaga, Marbella, or Granada

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🧾 What All Banks Require

Regardless of which bank you choose, you’ll need to provide:

• Passport or ID

• NIE (Foreigner’s ID number)

• Proof of income (payslips, tax return, etc.)

• Credit report

• Spanish bank account

• Deposit (30–40% typically)

💡 Documents must often be translated into Spanish and officially certified.

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📊 Comparison Table

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🔍 Tips for Choosing the Right Bank

• Compare LTV offers carefully — not all banks go beyond 60%

• Negotiate rates — even fixed rates are sometimes flexible

• Ask about early repayment penalties

• Work with a mortgage broker if you want help comparing offers

• Hire a lawyer to ensure the mortgage contract is fair and clear

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⚖️ Why Legal Support Is Essential

Banks won’t always explain contract terms in your language — and some include clauses unfavorable to foreigners. Your lawyer should:

• Translate and review the mortgage offer

• Flag hidden fees or risky clauses

• Coordinate with the notary and bank on your behalf

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❓ FAQs

Can I apply with two applicants (e.g. partners or spouses)?
Yes — most banks allow joint applications, and it can increase your borrowing power.

Do Spanish banks offer mortgages to Americans or Australians?
Yes — but you’ll often face slightly stricter scrutiny and may need a higher deposit.

Is it better to apply through a broker?
If you want access to multiple offers quickly or need help with negotiation, a mortgage broker is often worth the fee.

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🤝 How We Help

At Borderless Lawyers, we work with Spain’s top banks to secure the best mortgage deals for non-residents. We can:

• Compare and negotiate offers

• Review contracts in your language

• Represent you via power of attorney

👉 Book a call with our team to explore your non-resident mortgage options.