Buying property in Valencia is entirely legal for non-Spanish citizens. However, there are specific legal requirements every foreign buyer must meet before the transaction can be completed safely and successfully.
At Borderless Lawyers, we guide clients through each legal step to ensure smooth, secure property acquisition in Spain.
🆔 1. Obtain an NIE Number (Número de Identidad de Extranjero)
Every foreign buyer must have an NIE, which is:
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A tax identification number for non-residents
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Required to sign the deed, pay taxes, open a bank account
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Issued by Spanish police or consulates abroad
✅ We can obtain your NIE remotely via Power of Attorney.
🏦 2. Open a Spanish Bank Account
You’ll need a local account to:
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Transfer funds to the seller
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Pay taxes and notary fees
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Set up utilities post-purchase
✅ We assist with bank account setup and required documentation.
📑 3. Hire an Independent Property Lawyer
Under Spanish law, a lawyer is not required — but for foreign buyers, it’s essential. Your lawyer will:
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Conduct due diligence
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Draft or review the arras contract
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Represent you with Power of Attorney if needed
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Supervise all payments and legal steps
💡 Never rely solely on real estate agents for legal advice.
🧾 4. Conduct Legal Due Diligence
Your lawyer must verify:
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Title and ownership
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Debts, mortgages, or legal charges
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Urban planning compliance
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Licenses, boundaries, and property legality
✅ This step protects you from hidden liabilities or illegal builds.
✍️ 5. Sign a Contrato de Arras (Reservation Contract)
This contract:
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Reserves the property
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Requires a 10% deposit
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Sets penalties if either side backs out
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Must be properly drafted to protect your rights
✅ We prepare or review arras contracts to ensure fairness.
🏛️ 6. Sign the Public Deed Before a Notary
Final transfer of ownership must be:
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Signed by buyer and seller (or their representatives)
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Witnessed by a Spanish notary public
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Paid in certified funds
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Supported by all legal documentation
✅ We coordinate the notary signing and attend on your behalf if needed.
📚 7. Pay Property Taxes & Register the Property
After signing, you must:
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Pay transfer tax (ITP or VAT depending on property type)
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Submit documents to the Land Registry
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Update the Cadastre and local tax offices
✅ We handle 100% of the post-signing registration and tax filings.
💬 Final Word
Meeting the legal requirements to buy property in Valencia ensures your investment is valid, secure, and recognized by Spanish authorities.
At Borderless Lawyers, we take care of the full legal process from NIE to registration, whether you’re buying in person or remotely.
📞 Contact us today to start your property purchase in Valencia with total legal protection.