BUY BUYING GUIDE
BUYER GUIDE — 2026
Buying in Mallorca
as a foreigner
Anyone can buy here, from anywhere. The process is clear, the taxes are fixed, and the right team makes it simple. This is how it works in 2026.
THE SHORT ANSWER
Yes, you can buy. Here is how.
Foreigners can buy property in Mallorca freely, from inside or outside the EU. You need a Spanish tax number (NIE), usually a Spanish bank account, and an independent lawyer.
A purchase usually runs: reservation, due diligence, a private contract with a 10% deposit, then completion before a notary. Two to three months is typical.
Budget for taxes on top of the price. On a resale home, Balearic transfer tax runs on a progressive scale from 8% to 13%. On a new build, 10% VAT plus 1.5% stamp duty, or 2% for homes of €1 million or more.
Not sure which area? Start with our area guides, or rent first and decide from here.
THE PROCESS
Seven steps to the keys
The brief
Where, what, budget and timing. One conversation with a partner, then a shortlist.
01
NIE and bank account
Your foreigner's tax number (NIE) and a Spanish bank account. If you are abroad, your lawyer can obtain the NIE under a power of attorney.
02
Shortlist and viewings
Live and off-market homes, viewed in person or by private video tour.
03
Reservation
A holding deposit takes the home off the market while your lawyer runs the checks.
04
Due diligence
Title, outstanding debts, licences, planning, habitation certificate and community fees, checked by your independent lawyer.
05
Private contract
The deposit contract (arras), usually 10% of the price. Under the usual form, a buyer who withdraws loses the deposit; a seller who withdraws returns double.
06
Completion
Signed before a Spanish notary. The balance is paid, the deed is registered with the Land Registry and the keys are yours.
07
COSTS
What it costs on top of the price
Transfer tax (resale homes)
Balearic ITP on a progressive scale: 8% up to €400,000, 9% to €600,000, 10% to €1 million, 12% to €2 million and 13% above.
8% – 13%
VAT and stamp duty (new builds)
10% VAT, plus stamp duty (AJD) of 1.5%, or 2% for homes of €1 million or more.
11.5% – 12%
Notary and Land Registry
Set by official scales and calculated on the price.
Usually well under 1%
Independent lawyer
Your own lawyer, never the seller's.
Often around 1% + VAT
Mortgage costs
Valuation, arrangement and bank fees, if you finance.
Varies
Indicative 2026 figures. Your lawyer confirms the exact amount before you sign.
QUESTIONS
Buying in Mallorca: your questions
Can foreigners buy property in Mallorca?
Yes. EU and non-EU buyers can buy property in Mallorca. You need an NIE tax number, usually a Spanish bank account, and an independent lawyer to check title, debts and licences before you sign.
How much tax do you pay when buying in Mallorca?
On a resale home, Balearic transfer tax (ITP) applies on a progressive scale from 8% to 13%, with 13% on the part of the price above €2 million. On a new build, you pay 10% VAT plus stamp duty of 1.5%, or 2% for homes of €1 million or more. Notary, registry and legal fees are added.
Can I still get a golden visa by buying property in Spain?
No. Spain ended its golden visa for property and other investments on 3 April 2025. Non-EU buyers can still buy freely; residence now comes through other routes, such as non-lucrative residence, digital nomad or work permits.
Can non-residents get a mortgage in Mallorca?
Yes. Spanish banks lend to non-residents, typically up to 60–70% of the price. Plan for a larger deposit and for the purchase costs in cash.
How long does it take to buy a house in Mallorca?
Often two to three months from agreed price to completion. Cash purchases with clean paperwork can be faster.
Do I need to be in Mallorca to buy?
No. Under a power of attorney, your lawyer can obtain your NIE, open accounts and sign at the notary for you. Abode Property has worked under power of attorney for international clients for over 20 years.
Who are the best estate agents in Mallorca for international buyers?
Look for partners who handle your purchase personally, have off-market access and work alongside independent lawyers. Abode Mallorca is a boutique brokerage at the St. Regis Mardavall, with buyer networks across Europe and the Gulf through Abode Property in Dubai.
ENQUIRE
Plan your purchase
Tell us what you are looking for and when. A partner will reply within one working day.
AREA GUIDES