Buying a Property in Spain as a UK Citizen (2025): Complete Legal Guide by a Spanish Solicitor

Buying a home in Spain is one of the most common goals for UK citizens, whether for retirement, investment, holidays or permanent relocation. However, after Brexit, British nationals are now considered non-EU citizens, which means the buying process requires more legal attention, proper documentation and clear advice.

As a Spanish property lawyer (Solicitor) based in Almería, I assist British clients every day with safe and stress-free purchases. Here is the complete legal guide for UK citizens buying a property in Spain in 2025.

1. Can UK Citizens Buy Property in Spain After Brexit?

Yes. British buyers can purchase any type of property in Spain, even after Brexit.There are no restrictions on buying:

• Villas

• Apartments

• Rural or rustic houses

• Commercial premises

• Plots of land

Important:Buying a property does NOT grant Spanish residency. If you want to live in Spain full-time, you need a valid residence permit (NLV, work permit, etc.).

2. Required Documentation for UK Buyers

UK citizens need the following documents before signing a property contract:

✔ NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero)

Mandatory for any purchase, tax payment or contract.

✔ Valid Passport

✔ Spanish Bank Account

Needed to pay taxes, utilities and receive funds for the transaction.

✔ Proof of Funds

Especially if buying with a mortgage or transferring large amounts.

3. Taxes When Buying a Property in Spain (Explained for UK Buyers)

If the property is second-hand (most cases):

• ITP (Transfer Tax):In Andalucía, the rate is 7% (or reduced rates in some cases).

If the property is new from the developer:

• IVA (VAT): 10%

• AJD (Stamp Duty): 1.2%

Additional Costs:

• Notary fees

• Land Registry fees

• Solicitor fees

• Bank and mortgage fees (if applicable)

Plusvalía Municipal

Paid by the seller, not the buyer.

4. Step-by-Step Guide to Buying a Property in Spain (UK Edition)

STEP 1 – Reservation or Offer Acceptance

A small deposit is paid to take the property off the market.

STEP 2 – Legal Due Diligence

Your solicitor verifies:

• Property ownership

• Debts or charges

• Urban situation

• Licences

• Community fees

• Catastral and registry data

STEP 3 – Private Purchase Contract (Contrato de Arras)

Normally, a 10% deposit is paid.

STEP 4 – Completion at the Notary (Escritura)

Both parties sign the final deed.You pay the remaining balance, and the keys are handed over.

STEP 5 – Registration & Taxes

Your lawyer registers the property and pays taxes on your behalf.

5. Common Risks for UK Citizens When Buying in Spain

• Properties without a valid habitation licence

• Illegal constructions or extensions

• Rustic land limitations

• Hidden community debts

• Properties without registration (very common in rural areas)

• Incorrect tax calculation

• Fraudulent sellers or agencies

A Spanish solicitor prevents all of this BEFORE you pay any money.

6. Inheritance & Wills for UK Citizens with Property in Spain

If you are British and own property in Spain, you should have a Spanish Will.It avoids complications and delays for your family and reduces costs.

7. Why UK Citizens Need a Spanish Solicitor

Working with a bilingual solicitor ensures:

• Full legal checks of the property

• Secure payments

• Clear tax guidance

• Communication with the seller, notary and agents

• Representation with a Power of Attorney

• Complete service even if you are still in the UK

I work regularly with British clients buying in Vera, Mojácar, Garrucha, Turre, Bédar, Los Gallardos and all Almería.

8. How I Can Help You

I assist you through the entire process:

• NIE application

• Legal checks

• Arras contract

• Notary completion

• Registration

• Post-purchase taxes

• Utility changes

• Inheritance planning

If you are a UK citizen planning to buy in Spain, I can guide you safely through the whole procedure.

📩 Contact: info@lrjabogados.com📍 Vera, Almería – LRJ Abogados - Solicitors