Can a non-resident get a mortgage in Spain: Yes, with a bigger deposit.
// Short answer
Can I get a mortgage in Spain if I do not live there?
Yes. Spanish banks lend to non-residents, usually up to 60 to 70% of the purchase price or the bank’s valuation (tasación), whichever is lower. Residents are often offered up to 80%. You need an NIE, a Spanish bank account and proof of income. Under the 2019 mortgage law the bank pays the notary, registry and stamp duty on the mortgage deed; you pay the valuation and the purchase taxes.
Most buyers ask about the rate. The number that decides the deal is the deposit. At 60 to 70%, a non-resident brings far more cash than a resident, before a single cost is paid.
How much a bank will lend
Loan-to-value for non-residents is bank policy, not law. Most lenders offer 60 to 70%. Some go lower for buyers from outside the EU; a few go higher for strong profiles. The percentage applies to the lower of the price and the valuation, so if the valuation comes in under the agreed price, the loan shrinks and the gap comes out of your pocket.
Banks also test affordability: your total monthly debt payments as a share of net income, counting the loans you already have at home. Many lenders work to a ceiling of about 30 to 40%.
What you need to apply
An NIE (foreigner identification number), a Spanish bank account, your passport, recent payslips (or accounts if you are self-employed), your last tax returns, bank statements and a credit report from your home country. The nota simple and NIE guide covers the NIE. Documents not in Spanish may need a sworn translation.
Who pays what under the 2019 law
Spain’s mortgage law, Ley 5/2019, splits the costs of the loan. The bank pays the notary for the mortgage deed, the land registry entry, the gestoría, and the stamp duty (AJD) on the mortgage. You pay the valuation.
You still pay every cost of the purchase itself: transfer tax on a resale or VAT on a new build, plus notary and registry for the sale deed. Spain property buying costs lists them.
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The protections before you sign
The bank must give you the FEIN, the standard European information sheet, at least 10 calendar days before signing. Before the signing you also meet a notary of your choice, free of charge, who checks that you understand the loan and records it in a transparency certificate. Use those days: compare the total cost (TAE), not the headline rate.
Banks may offer a lower rate if you also take their life or home insurance. They must also offer the loan without it. Price both versions over the full term.
How much cash to bring
Work it out before you view. On a 60% loan you fund 40% of the price yourself, plus the purchase costs on top. On 70%, it is 30% plus costs. If the valuation comes in low, add the difference. Then check the property earns its keep: the Spain rental guide shows how to test real rents.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to be a Spanish resident to get a mortgage?
Is the loan based on the price or the valuation?
Who pays the notary and stamp duty on a Spanish mortgage?
Can I get a Spanish mortgage in pounds or dollars?
Independent research, not financial, legal or tax advice. Rules, fees and data sources change; confirm the current position with a licensed local professional before you commit money.