Consumer & Digital Rights in Spain

📦 How to Return Online Purchases in Spain – Legal Rules & Deadlines

Online shopping is fast, convenient, and often cheaper — but what happens if the product arrives damaged, doesn’t fit, or simply isn’t what you expected?

In Spain, you have strong legal rights to return online purchases, especially as a consumer (including tourists, expats, and non-residents). This article breaks down your withdrawal rights, refund process, and what to do if a seller refuses to comply.

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📜 What Law Governs Online Returns in Spain?

Online purchases in Spain are protected by:

• EU Directive 2011/83 on Consumer Rights

• Spanish Law on Consumers and Users (LGDCU)

These grant all consumers the right of withdrawal (derecho de desistimiento) — meaning you can return your order within 14 calendar days without giving a reason.

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🕑 Return Deadline: 14 Calendar Days

You have exactly 14 days from the day you receive the goods to notify the seller of your decision to return. Key points:

• It must be in writing (email, online form, or mail)

• The countdown starts when the product is delivered

• If it’s a service (not a physical product), the 14 days start from contract date

❗ Tip: Always save the delivery receipt or confirmation email as proof.

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💶 What Should the Seller Do?

Once you notify the seller, they must:

• ✅ Confirm your request within a reasonable time

• ✅ Refund the full purchase price + basic shipping

• ✅ Process the refund within 14 days after they receive the returned item

They cannot charge hidden fees or withhold the refund unjustly.

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📦 Who Pays Return Shipping?

• If the seller clearly informed you before purchase that return shipping is your responsibility, then you must cover it.

• If they failed to mention return shipping, they may be required to cover it.

📌 Some companies offer free return policies, especially large platforms (Amazon, El Corte Inglés, etc.).

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❌ Exceptions to the Right of Return

Not all online purchases can be returned. The right of withdrawal does not apply to:

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🌍 Can Foreigners Use the Right of Withdrawal?

Yes — Spanish and EU consumer law applies to all consumers in Spain, regardless of:

• Citizenship or residency

• Language

• Whether the purchase was shipped to a holiday rental, hotel, or friend’s address

As a foreigner, you’re fully protected when buying from Spanish or EU-based retailers.

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🛑 What If the Seller Refuses the Return?

If the seller ignores your request, delays refunding you, or tries to avoid the law, here’s what to do:

Step 1: Send a Formal Request

• Use a clear written notice by email or certified mail

• Include product info, purchase date, delivery date, and withdrawal statement

Step 2: Use the European Online Dispute Platform

• Visit ec.europa.eu/consumers/odr

• Ideal if the seller is in another EU country

Step 3: File a Claim with OMIC

• Go to your local Oficina Municipal de Información al Consumidor (OMIC)

• They can mediate directly with the seller

Step 4: Seek Legal Support

If the value is significant or urgent, a Spanish lawyer can:

• File a consumer protection complaint

• Demand refunds or damages

• Represent you in small claims or civil court

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✅ Summary: Online Returns in Spain

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👩‍⚖️ Need Help Returning an Online Purchase?

At Borderless Lawyers, we assist foreigners and expats in Spain:

• Drafting formal return requests

• Filing claims with Spanish sellers

• Seeking compensation for denied refunds

📞 Book a consultation today and let us protect your consumer rights — fast, affordable, and in your language.