buying process

What do Belgian nationals need to know about buying property in Spain?

Belgian nationals are among the most active international property buyers in Spain, particularly on the Costa Blanca.

Here is what you need to know as a Belgian buyer.

First, you will need a NIE number (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) — this is your Spanish tax identification number required for any property transaction.

You can apply at the Spanish consulate in Brussels or Antwerp, or in Spain at a police station with an appointment.

You will also need to open a Spanish bank account, which most Spanish banks can arrange with your passport, NIE, and proof of address.

Hiring an independent lawyer (abogado) is essential — do not rely on the notary alone, as the Spanish notary role is more limited than in Belgium.

Your lawyer should conduct due diligence including property registry checks, planning permission verification, and debt searches.

The purchase process involves a reservation deposit (€3,000-€6,000), then a private contract (contrato de arras) with a 10% deposit, and finally completion before a notary with the public deed (escritura).

Purchase costs are approximately 12-14% for resale properties (10% ITP transfer tax in Valencia region, plus notary, registry, and legal fees).

For new builds, you pay 10% IVA (VAT) plus 1.5% AJD stamp duty.

As a Belgian national, you must declare your Spanish property to the Belgian tax authorities and may be subject to taxes in both countries, though the Belgium-Spain double taxation treaty prevents double taxation on most items.

WOW-Estates provides Belgian buyers with comprehensive guidance throughout the entire process.