When buying a property and getting a mortgage in Spain, you’ll need the following documents:
- Copy of Spanish National identity card or passport
- NIE number (Número de Identidad de Extranjero)
- Payslips (usually for the last 3 months)
- Annual tax payments and deductions (P60 Form in the UK)
- Last 3 years for sole traders
- Last year’s tax return
- Proof of the primary residence
- For homeowners: Land Registry title
- For renters: Lease Agreement
- Employment contract (with all annexes)
- Bank statements (usually from the last 6 months)
- Savings and investments statements (to prove the origin of the deposit)
- Credit report
In certain situations, banks may ask for additional documents to determine an applicant’s eligibility, which is done on a case-by-case basis.
How to obtain a NIE number to buy a property in Spain
The “Número de Identidad de Extranjero” (NIE) is an all-purpose ID and tax number in Spain required to buy a property and get a mortgage.
When living abroad, you can apply for the NIE number:
- In-person: in Spain or via a Spanish Consulate abroad
- Through a representative in Spain
The required documents when applying for the NIE number are:
- Original and one copy of the Ex-15 application form filled out and signed (the form must indicate the economic, professional, or social reasons that justify the NIE application)
- An original document (and extra copy) that explains the reason for applying for an NIE number (a purchase contract for a property, or a mortgage application)
- Passport and a photocopy of the main page of your passport (the page with name, photo)
It’s worth mentioning that the NIE is usually issued within two weeks, but in exceptional situations, it may take longer. The document is sent to the applicant by email.
We recommend contacting your local consulate to check the latest guidelines regarding applying for the NIE, as processes and instructions may change over time.