Documents

In this section we have collected the lists of documents needed for the most common procedures. Requirements may differ slightly depending on the bank, the notary and the country that issued your documents, so it is best to check the details in advance.

Documents issued in a language other than Spanish generally need to be translated by a sworn translator (traductor jurado). In some cases a bank or notary may also require an apostille or legalisation at a Spanish consulate. They may also ask for the originals, so keep them at hand until the deal is signed.

Obtaining an NIE (foreigner identification number)

• Completed EX-15 form
• Paid fee (Modelo 790, code 012) with the bank’s confirmation
• Original and copy of the passport
• A document showing why you need an NIE (for example, a preliminary purchase contract or a letter from the agency about the intention to buy a property)
• A notarised power of attorney, if a representative submits the documents
• Sometimes a passport photo is requested (depends on the office)

Opening an account at a Spanish bank

• Valid passport
• NIE number (most banks ask for it, but some open a non-resident account with just a passport)
• Non-resident certificate (certificado de no residente), if a non-resident account is being opened
• Proof of address in your country of residence (a utility bill or bank statement not older than three months)
• Documents confirming the source of funds (an income certificate, a tax return, a property sale contract, etc.)
• If the bank asks: confirmation of a property purchase or reservation

Arranging a mortgage

• Passport and NIE (without an NIE a mortgage application is not considered)
• Proof of address in your country of residence
• Bank account statements, usually for the last 6 months (sometimes up to 12)
• Tax returns for the last 2 years
• Employment contract and payslips for the last 3-6 months; for the self-employed: returns and accounts for 2-3 years
• A certificate from your employer stating your position and salary
• Credit history from your country of residence
• Information on other properties and existing loans
• Proof of funds for the down payment
• Preliminary purchase contract and the nota simple (extract from the property register) for the property being bought
• The bank may request additional documents, for example confirming other sources of income