Understanding these requirements in advance helps avoid delays and increases the chances of mortgage approval. Below, we explain which documents are required to obtain a mortgage in Spain and how legal support can simplify the process.
Personal identification documents
The first group of documents confirms the identity and legal status of the buyer.
Typically required:
- Valid passport or national ID
- NIE number (Número de Identidad de Extranjero)
- Proof of address (utility bill or official correspondence)
- Marital status documentation (marriage certificate or divorce decree, if applicable)
Spanish banks use these documents to formally identify the applicant and comply with regulatory requirements.
Income and employment documentation
Banks must assess your ability to repay the mortgage. Required documents depend on whether you are employed or self-employed.
For employed applicants:
- Recent salary slips (usually last 3–6 months)
- Employment contract
- Employer reference letter (sometimes required)
- Latest tax return from your country of residence
For self-employed applicants:
- Recent tax returns (usually last 1–2 years)
- Proof of business activity
- Company financial statements (if applicable)
All documents should clearly demonstrate stable and sufficient income.
Bank statements and financial position
Spanish banks will also review your overall financial situation.
Required documents usually include:
- Bank statements from the last 6–12 months
- Information about existing loans or financial commitments
- Proof of savings for down payment and purchase costs
As a general rule, banks expect buyers to cover:
- 30–40% of the property price (own contribution),
- plus additional costs such as taxes, notary, and registration fees.
Property documentation
Once a property has been selected, the bank will require documents related to the real estate itself.
These include:
- Reservation contract or preliminary purchase agreement (Contrato de Arras)
- Property details from the Land Registry
- Valuation report (tasación) ordered by the bank
The property must meet legal and technical requirements to be accepted as mortgage collateral.
Credit history and additional documents
Some banks may request:
- A credit report from your country of residence
- Confirmation of no outstanding debts
- Additional declarations depending on the bank’s internal policy
Requirements can vary depending on the buyer’s nationality, income structure, and chosen financial institution.
Why legal support matters
Although banks manage the mortgage approval, the process involves legal and contractual elements that should always be reviewed professionally.
At The Lawyers, we:
- verify documentation before submission,
- coordinate with banks and brokers,
- ensure the mortgage conditions align with the purchase agreement,
- protect your interests throughout the transaction.
Get your Spanish mortgage with confidence
Preparing the right documents is a crucial step toward obtaining a mortgage in Spain. With proper guidance, the process becomes transparent, efficient, and secure.
If you are planning to finance your property purchase on the Costa del Sol and want professional legal support
— The Lawyers are here to assist you at every stage.
⚖️ The Lawyers – Real People. Real Law. Real Estate.
