A Guide to Buying a Property in Spain

The process for buying a property in Spain is long established and similar in many ways to other countries in Europe and centres on the role of the public notary. With some many non Spanish citizens buying property in Spain there are large number of experienced lawyers to choose from.

The Legal Process for buying a property in Spain

The legal process for buying a property in Spain in itself is not unduly complex, but there are some pitfalls to be avoided, but overall if the legal process for buying a property in Spain is undertaken by an experienced specialist the process should not prove to be a stressful one.

With off plan property the legal process can differ from that involved when buying a resale property, buying off plan property in Spain often involves a series of stage payments made up to the point of completion, until that time your contract is with the developer, so some care does need to be taken to ensure the contract is fair and your rights clearly stipulated. If you a buying an off plan Spanish property from a large and well established developer, the chances are that there will be little of concern, however if you are buying an off plan Spanish property from a small developer it would be wise to get any contract checked independently before signing. The process for completion i.e. taking ownership of your Spanish property is the same as buying a resale Spanish property and is explained later. The following describes the overall legal process when buying a property in Spain

The Escritura and documents required for the legal process of buying a property in Spain

The central legal document in the process of buying a property in Spain is the Escritura, this establishes the legal ownership of the property and the seller must produce what is known as escritura publica which is the registered title deed to the property and a nota simple informative which is a certificate from the Land Registry that shows the ownership and importantly details of any mortgages or other charges against the property. It is important to make certain that any charges against the property will be discharged at completion, this is not an automatic process as me be the case in other European Countries.

The current owner must also produce a impuesto de bienes inmuebles (IBI). which is paid local property receipt and additionally it may also be prudent to request copies of recent utility bills.

If the Spanish property you are buying is an apartment or located in an development where there are communal services, swimming pools etc, it is also prudent to request to see any regulations and receipts relating to Community charges.

It is also vital that the correct planning permissions are in place and get copies of the  plan partial  from the town council or ayuntamiento.  If you are buying a plot of land on which you intend to build, you will want to see a certificate and proofs stating that a property can be built on the land. If this is your intention then it is strongly recommended that use an experienced independent lawyer to satisfy that all is order.

It is important to note that Spain has two separate property registers. The registro de la propiedad  is where who owns a property is recorded together with all details relating to charges, mortgages etc. recorded against the property and owner. The second registry, the catastro, records the exact description, location, and boundaries of the property. It is not uncommon for the details recorded at each registry to differ so checks will need to carried and a process of getting them amended undertaken. The Spanish authorise are aware of the problem and have been working to bring the two registers into line and since 1997 and property transactions must make a reference to the referencia catastral.

The buyer will is required to have a tax identity number or numero de identificacion fiscal (NIF). This must be produced within 30 days of  the contract being finalised. You do not have to visit Spain solely to do this as your lawyer, or local gestor, is empowered to obtain one for you.

Agreeing the purchase of your property in Spain

Whist It is not an actual legal requirement to enter into a formal contract to buy a property in Spain it is common place and is an accepted principal which as a “Private Contract” can be enforced in Court. So some care is needed here.

There are two types of private contract wildly used when buying a property in Spain which govern the rights of the seller and buyer in respect of either wishing to withdraw from the contract. In particular what happens to any deposit monies paid, which, again there is no legal requirement or guidelines, is usually a minimum of 5% and to a maximum of 10% of the agreed purchase price. This deposit is referred to as the señal or arras.

In Spain the deposit monies are usually held by the seller. There are two types of deposit commonly in use. The arras de desistimiento, where the buyer can withdraw forfeit the deposit to the seller.  In this arrangement the seller can withdraw by paying the seller twice the amount of the deposit. The other type of deposit is a non-renunciable agreement known as a arras confirmatorias in which case unless both parties agree the sale and purchase can be enforced.

Completing the purchase of your property in Spain

This completion stage of the legal process of buying a property in Spain takes place in front of a Public Notary, it is acceptable to give a power of attorney if you are unable to e present in person.

In the presence of the Notary the transaction will be witnessed and finalised and this is when the buyer will be required to pay the balance due and sign all the documentation, the legalised contract known as the escritura de compraventa.

This stage of the legal process for buying a property in Spain takes place at the Notary’s office and is attended by both parties. The notary is a public official whose role is impartial and witness that the contract has been signed, the money paid, and that both parties are aware of their tax obligations. The Notary may also help in resolving any matters which are unclear to either party and can answer questions relating to the transaction itself, but is not authorised to comment on the legally of documents. Any legality issues should be resolved by suitably qualified lawyers before they appear before the Notary. As it is the practice to talk through the documents it is important that you have a translator present.

Once all parties have signed the documents the buyer pays the seller, this should always be by bankers draft, never in cash which if requested may include you in Tax fraud.

The Notary will send your escritura de compraventa to the property registry to be registered and converted into a public document or escritura publica.

The costs of buying a Spanish property

If you are thinking about or planning to buy a Spanish property the you should budget at least 10% - 12% of the purchase price to cover Tax and other expenses as summarised below

•         State and local tax

•         Professional fees for lawyers, estate agents, and gestors

•         Property registration and notary fees

•         Other expenses such as  translators, valuers,  surveyors.

In Spanish Law it is left up to the buyer and seller as to who is responsible for payment of the above, however should Tax not be paid it is the buyer whom is most likely to pursued for payment.

Unless otherwise agreed by the parties the common acceptance is the party will be responsible for the payment of any fees for advisors, estate agents, lawyers, surveyors, valuers, are paid by the party that engaged there services

The seller is responsible for;

• the costs involved in redeeming any outstanding mortgages or other charges

• the expenses of preparing the publicly registered title deed or escritura publica

• the local property taxes or contribución urbana (IBI)

• the local tax on the increase in the value of the property or impuesto sobre el incremento del valor de los terrenos – also known as the plusvalia municipal

The buyer is responsible for;

• the first copy of the escritura

• the local sales tax impuesto de la transmisión (ITP) if a resale properties at 6% or 7% (depending on the local state), or VAT or impuesto de valor añadido at 7% for a new property. These sums are payable at the local tax office within 30 days and based on the declared value of the property in the escritura

• stamp duty or impuesto sobre actos jurídicos documentados at 0.5% of the declared value in the escritura

• the costs of registering the property in the registro de la propiedad.

If your contract states ‘todos los gastos’ this means the buyer is responsible for all of the above.

For a Spanish property with an agreed purchase cost 130,000 Euro the costs would be as follows;

• VAT, or transfer tax, at 7% of declared value = 9,100 Euro

• Lawyers fees of, say 1%, of property value = 1,300 Euro

• Notarial, gestor, and registry fees – set on a fixed scale = 900 Euro

• Stamp duty – payable on declared value = 650 Euro

If you purchased your property in Spain using a mortgage then there will be extra stamp duties and the legal costs of preparing and registering the mortgage typically 1.5%, and set up fees of typically 1%.


Mortgages for buying a Spanish property

If you are arranging finance on the property, ensure that this is stated in any contract and you have an 'opt-out clause' if the loan is not agreed (which will ensure any deposit paid is refunded).

Try to arrange your mortgage finance 'in principle', before agreeing to purchase the property, or before signing any contracts and paying over a deposit.

Mortgages for buying a property in Spain can be arranged for up to 40 years and at attractive rates in many cases.  It is sometimes possible to arrange up to 90% of the property cost or value to be borrowed although it is rare to be able to borrow on off-plan property until the building is complete as legal ownership of the property cannot be transferred until this point.

When buying an off plan Spanish property mortgages will not be formally granted until the property is completed and a valuation has been conducted by the bank. Arrangement fees will vary from institution to institution but should not exceed 1%.   In addition, there is likely to be a fee for the notary to witness the signing of the mortgage contract and this may add another €200 to €300.

Life insurance and property insurance are normally obligatory. In order to assess the financial viability of granting a mortgage, the bank will require proof of the client’s financial position.

Key points about arranging a mortgage for a property in Spain

The calculation is based on the valuation or purchase price, whichever is the lower

Up to 80% of LTV available for house purchase only.

Up to 70% of LTV available for either Re-Mortgage or Equity Release for all purposes

Multiple is based on joint net “take home” pay, where joint income is applicable

Existing liabilities, e.g. mortgage or rental payments, loans, credit card payments and maintenance are taken into account, together with the proposed Spanish mortgage payments. All this must not typically exceed 40% of your monthly net income.

You will be required to produce evidence of income;

If you are employed:

Your last three month’s payslips

Your latest P60 and/or Employers Reference

Your last six month’s personal bank statements

If you are self-employed:

Your last two year’s audited accounts & last two years tax returns.

Your last 3 month’s personal bank statements.

Example mortgage payments

If, for example, your net joint monthly income is £2,500, 40% of this equates to £1,000. If your only liability is your current UK mortgage payment, of say £300 per month, this would leave a balance of £700 for your Spanish mortgage repayment.

Loans available in either Sterling or Euros and on either a Repayment or Interest Only basis are available up to 80% of the property’s value/declared price (whichever is the lower).

The maximum term of any mortgage is 40 years (to age 80 maximum), this varies on the type of loan. The minimum amount is €30,000

Banking in Spain

Banking Hours Mon-Fri 0900-1400.

Currency Euro (€) = 100 cents.

Currency Exchange, money can be changed in any bank, and at most travel agencies, major hotels and airports. National Girobank Postcheques may be used to withdraw cash from UK accounts at main Spanish post offices.

Credit / Debit Cards and ATMs, American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa are widely accepted, as well as Eurocheque cards. ATMs are widely available.

Residency in Spain

New Residency regulations came into effect from March 2003. EU citizens intending to remain in Spain for a continuous period of more than 90 days, and who come under the following categories, no longer need to apply for a residence card and are able to reside in Spain with just a valid passport;

Employees, registered with the Spanish Social Security Department;

Self- employed, registered with the Spanish Social Security Department

StudentsResidence cards for the above can still be applied for on an optional and voluntary basis.

These new exemptions do not apply in the majority of cases to those EU citizens

who do not pay, or have not paid into the Spanish Social Security System, i.e. those

who have retired to Spain, and persons of independent means. People from

these two categories still need to apply for a residence card if remaining in Spain for

a continuous period of more than 90 days.Please note that these regulations are being continually amended and updated.

At present, according to the current legislation, the only documents needed to apply for residency (residencia) are• Application form

• Passport

• Four passport sized photographs, not signed on the back.

Remember, residing long term in Spain without a Residencia if appropriate is punishable with a fine of up to 12,000 Euros

Wills and Inheritance in Spain

It is strongly recommended that clients make a separate Will in Spain for their Spanish assets.

If Spanish assets are added to a client’s Will in their home country, (as long as the client has a legal domicile there for the laws of his land to apply), this will involve a number of complicated, time consuming and expensive procedures for his heirs.

1. A certified copy of the grant of probate must be legalised by the Spanish Consul in his home country.

2. A certified Spanish translation of this certified copy will also be required.

3. A Spanish lawyer must be engaged to

-prepare a list of the assets in Spain,

-see that the Spanish Taxes are paid,

-handle all the paperwork involved in distributing the assets.

4. In the clients home country, two lawyers, or a Notary, or a Spanish Consul General must prepare a certificate of law (cert de le which affirms that;-the testator had the legal capacity to make a Will,

-the Will is valid.

- the Spanish law of obligatory heirs does not exist in the law of the client’s country,

-the Will has been duly proved,

-the trustees named have the correct legal powers to administer the estate.

Only then can the Will be declared effective to dispose of the client’s assets in Spain.Without any Will at all the client’s own National Law concerning assets abroad will be applied, and this may vary from country to country. Whatever the national law states, the process of finalising and releasing the estate will certainly be more complicated, protracted and expensive should the client die intestate.

Any foreigner, Resident or Non-Resident, can leave his Spanish property to anyone he chooses, as long as his own national laws allow for free disposition.

To make a Will is a simple process.. .the Will is prepared in two columns, one in Spanish, and the other in the chosen language of the client. The Will is signed and certified in front of a Notary, who will keep the original, give the client a copy, and send a notification to the central registry in Madrid, where all Spanish Wills are logged.

An important point to note: any Will made in a client’s home country should clearly state that it relates to the assets in that country only. If a Will is made in Spain,and then one is made in the home country, dated after the Spanish Will, and that document relates to “everything”, this later document will take precedence, will include the Spanish assets, and the intended wishes of the client for the Spanish property may not be carried Out.

Medical Care in Spain, Torrevieja for example

Hospital and Pharmacies

There are 3 health centres in Torrevieja, two of these are for residents of Torrevieja (one is located in La Acequion and the other in Nueva Torrevieja). The third is for non-residents of Torrevieja, i.e. holiday makers, and is located in C/Patricio Perez. Social Security hospitals close to Torrevieja are Elche hospital, Vega Baja hospital (in Orihuela) and San Juan hospital (in Alicante). Torrevieja also has a new state of the art hospital, i.e. San Jaime. At present under construction are a xmw Health Centre in La Mata, and a new hospital in Los Balcones.

There are many pharmacies spread between Torrevieja and the different urbanizations. Each pharmacy displays information regarding which one is on night duty. Prices of drugs vary by up to 4 dependent on whether the client has a prescription or not. Medicines are normally up to 40% cheaper than in the rest of Europe.

Health Care Charitable Organisations

In addition to the array of medical services available in the area, there are a few charitable organisations that offer assistance to expatriates. Here is the most important one:

TORREVIEJA HELP — serves as an information office, advises and assists in obtaining Spanish residency, has a hospital visiting team for the local hospital in Vega Baja, rents or assists in getting wheel chairs, crutches, etc., offers drivers, interpreters and carers for a small fee. It also offers an emergency service for up to four weeks.

Address: Rambla Juan Mateo Garcia #4, Torrevieja

(Near Tourist Info. Office by “Hippy Market”)

Telephones: 965-704-282 // 966-719-606 // 965-976-430

Employment In Spain

Citizens of the European Community are free to move to another European country to settle and work, enjoying the same rights as the nationals of the country of their choice. Access to employment may depend on the possession of qualifications, work experience and knowledge of the foreign language. Spanish is essential if it is intended to work in the Spanish employment market, rather than the distinct international communities.

What to do before moving to Spain:

Check Spanish newspapers such as “El Pals”, “ABC”, “El Mundo”, “Diário 16”, “YA”, “La Vanguardia”, etc. Each has a Job Section. Check the Sunday edition for the greatest number of job ads.

Check job offers in the EUROPEAN EMPLOYMENT SERVICES (LURES) Network in your country. This service will provide details about vacancies and general information on living and working conditions in Spain. EURES has two databases: one with job offers in the European community and another with information on working conditions and profile of labour trends in each European labour market.

Check with the Spanish Embassy or Consulate in your country regarding your specific situation.

Bear in mind that if you have been working in your country and you are unemployed at the time of departing to live in another European country, you may ask for home unemployment benefits to be transferred before leaving (short term validity — three months).

Be aware that the Spanish Social Security System is different from that in other countries.

What to bring with you:

• Valid passport or identity card.

• Original birth and marriage certificates.

• Relevant “E” medical form.

• Relevant “E” forms to cover social security transfers.

• Curriculum Vitae (translated).

• Copies of qualifications (ask employment office for equivalents) and permits or licences such as your driving licence.

• Work reference (translated).

• Useful contact addresses (social centres, friends, embassy).

What to do when arriving in Spain

• On your arrival in Spain you must register with the national employment institute, INEM (“Instituto Nacional de Empleo’) near your place of residence within 7 days of leaving your country. If applicable, you may ask for acknowledgement of transferred unemployment benefit.

• Apply for Spanish residence card (“Tarjeta de Residencia Comunitaria”,), if required,

(refer to the section on Residency, as the law changed on March, 2003), and NIE number (“Nu’mero de Ident Extranjera) from the foreigners’ department (“Oficina de Extranjeros’) or the appropriate provincial police headquarters (“Comisarla de Policia”).

If you are a non-EU citizen: first, you need to obtain a visa in your home country from the Spanish Consulate. You cannot start work before you receive your residence card.

No work permit is required for EU/EEA citizens, as they can start working before they actually receive their Spanish residence card (Ta de Residencia Communitaria). If you are an EU/EEA citizen, your Spanish residence card is your combined work and residence document.

What types of employment services are available in Spain?

The NationalEmplojment Institute (‘Instituto Nacional de Empleo, INEM”) has a network, which provides placement services for all categories of jobs. You can find the nearest INEM in the telephone directory or internet — www.inem.es

Temporary Employment Companies — these are private firms that offer temporary jobs by hiring workers to provide their services to other companies. You may find them under the section of Empresas de Trabajo Temporal’ in the yellow pages of the telephone directory.Job Placement Agencies — you can apply for employment in these agencies. For information on addresses consult Internet site — http//www.inem.es

Local and National Newspaper Job Advertisements.

Finally, Professional Associations and the Chamber of Commerce are good sources of information for finding the job that you are seeking.

A final note to add to the above: in Spain, it is not uncommon to find a job by word of mouth or by way of informal recruiting, you may find it useful to apply in person.

What are the basic facts about employment in Spain?

Titles, Degrees and Licences — the recognition of foreign qualifications has been greatly simplified and speeded up in Spain.

Work Contract — most contracts in Spain are in writing; before signing a contract, make sure you fully understand terms and conditions, otherwise rely on a translation.

Wages/Salaries — there are collective agreements for business sectors that establish salaries for each professional category.

Working Week — a normal working week consists of 40 working hours maximum.

Holidays — a worker is entitled to 22 days of holidays per year plus Saturdays and Sundays in addition to 14 public holidays/year.

Employment Classification — there are two kinds of employment: one called “cuenta ajena” (on another’s person account), someone hires you as an employee, and another called “autonomo”, if you work on a self-employed basis. For the “cuenta ajena”, your employer will register and pay directly to the Spanish Social Security on your behalf. In the case of the auto’nomo, you are required by law to register and pay directly to the Spanish Social Security under the “Regimen Especial deAutónomos.”

Health Care — if you are a salaried worker contributing to the Spanish Social Security system, you will receive a Health Care Card (‘Tar/eta Sanitaria”) containing your personal details and affiliation number that entitles you to receive free medical and hospital assistance. Visit the nearest Health Care Centre, (Centro de Salud) in order to obtain your Health Care Card. If you are a self-employed worker, you should register with the Spanish Social Security and pay directly to this office in order to obtain your Social Security Card that entitles you to obtain a Health Care Card.

Income Tax — the tax rate depends on your situation and on your annual income. Various deductions can apply, which will affect the actual rate at which you pay tax.

Starting a Company in Spain

Depending on your circumstances, Spain provides a good opportunity for those who wish to work as self-employed or to start their own company.

What to do before coming to Spain?

It is advisable to start gathering information on forming a company in Spain even before you leave your home country. The first place to start is with your legal advisor.

Check the Spanish Consulate in your home country for information related to starting a company in Spain. The Ministry of Economy and Finance (Ministerlo de Economla Hacienda) has published a series of booklets in English called “A Guide to Business in Spain”.

What are the basic conditions for starting a business in Spain?

E.U. citizens are permitted to start a business in Spain either as a resident or a non resident. In the case of a non-resident, it was necessary to apply for a residence card after three months, but legislation changed on March 2003, so please refer to the Residency section for more details.

Non-EU citizens who wish to open a business will have to demonstrate that they have approximately US $120,000 to invest. Also a Visa is required in order to apply for a work permit in Spain.

Be prepared for the usual difficulties in starting a business.

Contract the services of a competent “gestorla” to handle administrative procedures and to provide you with advice on legal matters.

Locate the actual premises that will be the headquarters of your company. You may either purchase, rent or lease (formerly, a tra.rpaso but now termed a cesión). Be aware that you will need expert legal advice to avoid pitfalls if you are buying a going business concern.

Visit the Town Hall to obtain information and apply for an opening licence for your business (“Licencia de Apertura”). The estimated cost for an opening licence of a small business can be as little as €150 for a small shop, €200 for a bar or restaurant, up to as much as €5,000 for larger premises.

You will need to obtain a foreigner’s identification number NIB (“Nu’mero de Identificación Extranjera”). You can obtain this I.D. number without having a residence permit.

As a self-employed or autonomous worker, it is necessary to pay a minimum monthly fee to the Spanish Social Security system, varying depending on the activity and the number of employees.

It is also necessary to register for the tax on economic activities (“Impuesto sobre Actividades Econo’micas”- IAE) at the Town Hall.

As Spain is part of the European Community, you may choose to hire persons from your own country or decide to employ 1oc

Depending on the nature of the company, the following documents may also be necessary:

- A written explanation of the company’s activity (“Memoria de Actividades”).

- Title deed or lease contract for business premises.

- The Incorporation charter.

- Any other permits relating to your specific profession, e.g. electrician, cook, etc.

- Any titles or degrees.

Keep records of expenses incurred including all payments of IVA (VAil), expenses of “gestorla”, accounting and legal advice.

How are businesses classified in Spain?

Self-employed Person (“Empresario Individual o Autónomo”) — will pay the tax

on economic activities (IIAB) and make contributions to the Spanish Social Security system at a fixed rate.

Limited Company (“SociedadLimitada”- S.L.) - it is necessary to register in the mercantile register (“Registro MercantIl”)

Joint Stock Company (“SociedadAnónima” — LA.) — again, such companies require to be registered and have a larger volume of business than S.L. companies.

What are the business tax declaration options?

The self-employed person pays taxes by “Impuesto sobre Ia Renta de Personas Fisicas” (IRF) either by direct estimation, by coefficients or module. Companies pay the Impuesto de Sociedades (company tax). There are two options for submitting taxes: direct estimation and modules:

Direct Estimation — consists in calculating precise income and expenses which involves book keeping, profit and loss account, balances, and the use of an accountant.

Modules — classify business activities in 97 sectors, establish a series of variables (i.e. salaried staff, metres of premises, electricity consumption, etc.) and fix standard tax tables for each sector.

Education and Schooling in Spain

The Spanish education system has changed over the last ten years or so. Previously, an elitist system with mostly private secondary education prevailed. Schools in Spain today are now free and compulsory for children between ages of 6 and 15, with more than 55% of children staying on until the age of 18.

Post secondary age, Spain has 31 universities, the closest being at Elche with Catholic education representing approximately 20% of the whole system, up to university level.For non-Spanish families making their home in Spain, state education is free, but is conducted only in Spanish. The advantage of this is that children rapidly learn the language and in doing so integrate into the community.

If, however, English speaking parents wish their children to complete an English language curriculum course they may want to consider a fee-paying International School. Torrevieja has such a school, capable of taking children from the age of 3.

To enrol children into a Spanish school is fairly straightforward, as long as you possess the correct documentation. The most important document that has to come from the child’s home country is written proof that all vaccinations have been carried out at the appropriate ages, which can be provided by the child’s doctor. All other documentation is completed in Spain.In order to have your child enrolled in the Spanish school system:

1) Bring vaccination certificate from home country.

2) Go to the Education Offices the address is at the Town Hall

3) Ask for enrolment forms for the school appropriate for your home

4) Complete and take to the school the following:

a) Certificate of vaccinations (from home country).

b) Medical certificate (signed by local Spanish doctor).

c) Application form (Solicitud).

d) Certificate of empadronamiento - from the census roll at the Town

Hall (Ajuntamiento) to prove address.

e) Passports (and photocopies) of the children.

f) Passports of the parents or guardians.

g) Photographs (sometimes two, sometimes four) of children.

h) Sometimes stamps are required, for local mailingThis process is similar at the local Orihuela town hall in Playa Flamenca, for primary school children enrolling at the new school in Playa Flamenca. For any children using the schools in San Miguel de Salinas, contact initially should be made at San Miguel Town Hall. For people living in the Gran Alacant area, the initial point of contact is the Education Office in the Town Hall in Santa Pola.

Playa Flamenca, Orihuela Town Hall Tel N° 96 676 00 00

San Miguel Town Hall Tel N° 96 572 00 01

Santa Pola Education Offfice Tel N° 96 541 11 00Social Security Pensions

UK Pensions in Spain (General Information)

Retirement pensions are one of the main social security benefits. It is therefore important for a person wanting to live and/or work in Spain, to have a precise idea of the repercussions and future pension entitlements, before making a final decision.

What to do before retiring in Spain?

For those deciding to retire in Spain, they must visit the Department of Social Security in their home country in order to obtain advice on transfer and availability of social security benefits. It is also advisable to visit the Spanish Consulate in your country for further information about retirement in Spain.

Can I get my pension paid in Spain?

Your retirement pension will be paid wherever you reside or stay in the territory of the European Union or European Economic Area, without reduction, modification or suspension. This applies not only to former “migrant workers” but also to all pensioners resident in Spain.

How would my pension be paid?

You have two options for having your pension paid:

1) to have your pension paid in your home country bank or

2) to have your pension paid in a Spanish bank. In making your decision, please take into account: Rate of Exchange: if you receive a pension from another country, it must normally be converted into EUROS (if living in Spain) at rates of exchange which often vary, which may be to your advantage or loss according to the currency concerned (this applies to non-Monetary Union Countries such as UK). However, if your country is part of the Monetary Union, the introduction of the EURO will overcome this problem, as currencies will be standardised.

Postal and Bank Charges: if your pension is paid by another country, you may have to allow for personal and bank charges.

What are the basic facts about retirement in Spain?

In order to receive a State pension, you must contribute to the Spanish Social Security system.

Retirement age in Spain is 65.

Amount of Spanish State pension depends on level of contributions.

+ More information can be obtained from the Pension Service web site, and the Department for Work and Pensions website...

+ www.thepensionservice.gov.uk

+ www.dwp.gov.uk

The running cost of a property in Spain

Utilities. The actual service (standing) charges are € 15 per quarter for water, and € 15.84 every two months for a 3.3 1Kw electricity supply. On top of this there is, of course, the actual consumption. All bills must be paid by Direct Debit from the client’s Spanish bank account.

Gas Contract. As gas is supplied in bottles it is possible to contract for 1 or 2 bottles. The cost for 1 is approx. € 42, and for 2 apprpx. € 66 Euros. Exchange bottles cost approx. € 6, and can be obtained from the Repsol Butano in Torrevieja, or delivered to the client’s property.

Community Fee. Each community owner is responsible for their share of the upkeep expenses of the communal property, i.e. swimming pooi, garden areas, etc. Payment is made on an annual or half yearly basis. Costs vary depending on the number of owners and the services offered.. . for example, an urbanisation with a swimming pooi and tennis courts and 200 property owners could have fees of approx € 420.

Property Insurance.

Building and contents and civil liability. Depends on the value of the property and the extent of the cover required. Examples

Property Value of€ 69,000 and Contents of€ 18,000

Premium.. . .Full Time Living (more than 9 months) €236

Part Time Living L329

Fiscal Fee.

The fee levied by the fiscal representative for handling payment of the client’s annual tax obligations, together with completion and submission of these annual tax returns on behalf of the client. Normally in the region of € 120.

Non Resident Owners.

To cover the above costs it is recommended that clients lodge at least € 240 in their account in Spain every quarter to pay bills by direct debit.

Important contacts in Spain

Spanish Embassy in the UK

39 Chesham Place, London SW1X 8SB, UK Tel: (020) 7235 5555, www.mae.es

Spanish Consulate in the UK

20 Draycott Place, London SW3 2RZ, UK Tel: (020) 7589 8989 or 0906 550 8970 (recorded visa information; calls cost £1 per minute) or (020) 7594 4904 (to make an appointment).www.conspalon.org  Opening hours: Mon-Fri 0915-1415 (closed Spanish national holidays; visa information by appointment only).

Spanish National Tourist Office in the UK

PO Box 4009, London W1A 6NB, UK  Tel: (020) 7486 8077 or 0845 940 0180 (24-hour brochure request line; calls cost 60p per minute).  www.spain.info

British embassies/consulates telephone number in Spain  96 521 60 22

General Services Contact Details

European Commission Offices in Spain Coniisión de las Comunidades Europeas Paseo de la Castellana, 46 28046 MADRID Tel: 91.431.57.11 Fax: 91.577.29.23 / 91.576.03.87

European Commission Offices in the U.K. 8 Storey’s Gate U.K.- London SW 1P 3 AT Tel: (+ 44) 207.973.1992 Fax: (+44) 207.973.1000 U.K.- Belfast Windsor House 9/15 Bedford Street BT 2 7 EG Tel: (+44) 2890.240.708 Fax: (+44) 2890.248.241 U.K.- Edinburgh 9 Alva Street EH2 4PH Tel: (+44) 131.225.2058 Fax: (+44) 131.266.4105 U.K.- Cardiff 4 Cathedral Road CF1 9SG Tel: (+44) 2920.371.631 Fax: (+44) 2920.395.489

European Parliament Office in the U.K. 2 Queen Anne’s Gate U.K.- London SW1H 9AA Tel: (+44) 207.227.4300 Fax: (+44) 207.227.4302 European Parliament Office in Ireland 43 Molesworth Street Dublin 2—Ireland Tel: (00353)) (1)605 7900

Citizenship of the EU - Voting Rights The Home Office 50 Queen Anne’s Gate U.K.- London SW1H 9AT Tel: (+44) 207.273.3000 Fax: (+44) 207.273.3965

Popular destinations for owning a property in Spain

Costa Blanca is a beautiful area on the east coast of Spain. Costa Blanca has miles of beautiful sandy beaches which stretch from the cosmopolitan town of Denia in the north to the tourist resort of Torrevieja in the south. The northern part of Costa Blanca is mountainous and relatively green compared to the much flatter and drier southern end of the Costa Blanca. Costa Blanca has a great choice for property buyers, whether it apartments or villas to use as holiday property or to rent out to tourists for investment property. Of course many people decide use the property as a permanent home.

The Costs Blanca offers all things to all people; a paradise for golfers, sun worshippers, party people and families. Costa Blanca has big beachside resorts with plentiful hotels and entertainment, and there are delightful mountain villages where life seems hardly to have changed for centuries.

Costa Blanca Sightseeing, the city of Alicante is the capital of the region and has many cultural activities and fine beaches. At the extreme south of the Costa Blanca there is Torrevieja, favoured by British tourists of whom many buy villas or apartment property for permanent or holiday homes

Along the Costa Blanca coast are international tourist resorts mixed with traditional Spanish towns and villages. Starting on the Costa Blanca at Denia, is a lovely town with an impressive castle and thriving tourist activities. The resort of Javea which is reached by a somewhat hairy drive over the Montgo mountain is regarded as one of the jewels of the Costa Blanca.

Visit the small pretty fishing port of Moraira with its marina and hillside developments of whitewashed holiday property villas. Continue the tour of Costs Blanca to Calpe a modern beach resort with an attractive old quarter and the distinctive Gibraltar style Peñon de Ifach rock which dominates the view for miles. Then comes Altea which is one of the most beautiful towns on the Costa Blanca with its steep, winding, medieval cobbled streets leading up to the blue-domed church and plaza which affords one of the best views in the Costa Blanca.

Costa Blanca Climate, the climate on the Costa Blanca is excellent. The Costa Blanca has more than 2,800 hours of sunshine each year with an average annual temperature of 19.3°C. The Costa Blanca has become a renowned destination for sun lovers with over 300 sunny days each year and temperatures can reach 40 °C in August.  Many visitors come out over the winter and spring months when it is cooler and risk showers.Costa Blanca Beaches

The Costa Blanca has some of the best beaches in Spain there are a large number of ‘blue flag’ beaches and these are normally cleaned every day and will often have life-guards on duty during the busy summer months. Some of the more popular beaches can get very busy during July and August but if you take some time to explore a little, even in the high season you may find quiet and isolated beaches.

Golf property in the Costa Blanca is popular.  The Costa Blanca has a lovely climate to enjoy a range of golf courses. Details of Costa Blanca courses are:

Club de Golf Escorpión - Costa Blanca, the road San Antonio de Benageber-BéteraAlenda Golf Club - Costa Blanca, 15 km along the road Alicante-Madrid Campo de Golf Oliva Nova - Costa Blanca, the road N 332, south of Oliva Club de Campo del Mediterráneo - Costa Blanca, Urbanización La ComaClub de Golf Bonalba - Costa Blanca, the road Muchamiel-Busot, close to Muchamiel Real Club de Golf Campoamor - Costa Blanca, the road Torrevieja-Cartagena, Desea de Campoamor Club de Golf El Bosque - Costa Blanca, the road towards GodelletaClub de Golf El Plantío - Costa Blanca, the road Vieja Alicante-Elche, 3 km from Elche  Club de Golf Villamartin - Costa Blanca, the road Torrevieja-Cartagena, nw Desea de Campoamor Campo de Golf El Saler - Costa Blanca, South of El SalerClub de Golf Altorreal - Costa Blanca, the road Murcia-Madrid, 10 km from MurciaLa Finca Algorfa Golf - Costa Blanca, 2.5 km from Algorfa to Los MontesinosLa Manga Club  - Costa Blanca, close to Los Belones Number of holes 54 Golf & Country Club La Marquesa - Costa Blanca, Ciudad Quesada, the road Rojales- Guardamar Club de Golf La Sella - Costa Blanca, Residencial La Sella, close to DeniaLas Ramblas de Orihuela – Costs Blanca, the road Torrevieja-Cartagena, Desea de CampoamorAlicante Golf - Costa Blanca, in Playa de San Juan, a 10 minute drive from Alicante

The Costa Brava is a 160 kilometre stretch of beautiful, rugged coastline in the region of Catalonia in the north east corner of Spain. The Costa Brava stretches from Blanes, north of Barcelona, to Roses near the French border. The Costa Brava is full of modern international tourist resorts alongside unspoilt fishing villages, sheltered rocky coves and medieval towns with ancient castles. There is plenty of choice for buying property in the Costa Brava, with a range of villas and apartments for all budgets. Many people buy property for holiday use or as a property to move to permanently. There is the option of renting to holiday users out and using the apartments or villas as an investment property.

Apart from the attractions of the Costa Brava beaches, the Costa Brava is also an ideal base from which to explore Catalonia. Barcelona is a fascinating city with Gaudi architecture, Pablo Picasso museum, and famous La Rambla boulevard. The Salvador Dali museum at Figueres is a popular attraction along with the Benedictine Monastery at Montserrat, perched high amid some extraordinary rock formations in the mountains to the north west of Barcelona.

Other sightseeing places worth visiting include; the market town of Palafrugell; Besalu this medieval town is a site of National Historical Interest; Church of Sant Joan de Boi is located at the village of Boi and was declared Human Heritage by Unesco; the town of Sant Joan de les Abadesses with the perfect line of the streets of the Vila Vella.

The climate in the Costa Brava is pleasant for much of the year with 2,500 hours of sunshine. Costa Brava summers are hot without being oppressive, mid summer month temperatures have average highs of 29°C. The Costa Brava's winters still reach average highs of 13°C, which make outdoor lunches possible for much of the year, although this a good deal cooler than in Spain's southern regions.

The Costa Brava northern location means that during the winter months it can have the odd cold spell. Costa Brava has moderate rainfall at around 1,000mm but this is wetter than in the south of Spain.

An attractive resort on the Costa Brava is Tossa de Mar. This part of the Costa Brava coastline has 14 kilometres of tourist beaches, an attractive part of the resort is its historic old quarter, the Villa Vella, with its ancient defence walls and towers still in tact.

The Roses resort is the biggest on the northern part of the Costa Brava just 30 kilometres from the French border. This centuries old fishing port is now a popular international holiday resort which has retained much of its original charm. All modern tourist facilities can be found here but the resort has escaped the over development which now characterise some of the better known Spanish coastal towns. Cadaques is a short drive north of Roses and is one of the most unspoilt spots on the whole of this Costa Brava coastal stretch.

Estartit is south of Roses and is a combination of a traditional Costa Brava Spanish fishing harbour and modern marina. This is a fairly quiet and relaxed resort which appeals to families with young children. It overlooks the archipelago of seven Medes Islands - one of the most important nature and marine reserves in the western Mediterranean.

The following are the main resorts

Blanes- Costa Brava,  Calella - Costa Brava,   Estartit - Costa Brava,  Lloret de Mar - Costa Brava,   Roses - Costa Brava,   Santa Susanna - Costa Brava,  Tossa de Mar - Costa Brava
Costa Brava Golf

Costs Brava has a good selection of golf courses. The main courses are; PGA de Catalunya -Costa Brava, Emporda Golf Club - Costa Brava, Pals Golf Club - Costa Brava, Peralada Costa Brava Golf Course - Costa Brava, Torremirona Golf Club - Costa Brava, Serres de Pals Golf Club - Costa Brava, Club de Golf d'Aro - Costa Brava, Costa Brava Golf Club - Costa Brava, Girona Golf Club - Costa Brava 

Ayamonte in Costa de la Luz is an ideal stopping place between Spain and Portugal. Ayamonte has a great choice of property Ayamonte property is available to buy as holiday property, as an investment property by renting to tourists, or as a property to live in as a new home abroad.

Ayamonte has more foreign tourists than other resorts along the Costa de la Luz in Huelva province, partly due to its closeness to the Algarve and its position as the westernmost resort along the Andalucian coast. The journey from Ayamonte to Faro on the Algarve now takes a mere 45 minutes.

Ayamonte is surrounded by protected areas teeming with wildlife. The Marismas del Guadiana, the marshes of the Guadiana estuary, are rich in birdlife, including herons, storks and flamingos. The nearest beach is the new resort of Isla Canela, five minutes' drive away from the Ayamonte.

The centre is a good place to take a leisurely stroll, as many of its narrow streets are pedestrianised. These streets link small, pretty plazas, which are tucked away but full of busy pavement cafés and bars serving great seafood characteristic of the Huelva Costa de la Luz. Next to the main square, the Paseo de la Ribera, is the harbour and further along is the ferry dock. In the old ayamonte town is the fifteenth-century Iglesia de San Salvador, with its memorable tower with superb views across to Portugal. There are also good views from the tower of the sixteenth-century San Francisco church nearby.

The Costa del Sol is the gateway to a quintessential part of Spain. Whether it the Costa del Sol cosmopolitan marinas such as Marbella, the 60 plus golf courses to choose on the Costa del Sol, or the sands of the resorts that make up Spain’s Costa del Sol ‘sunshine coast’, there is something for everyone. All of this makes the Costa del Sol a popular place to buy property. The Costa del Sol has a great deal of property to choose from, so whether you are looking for holiday property, property to retire to or maybe an investment property, there is sure to be a property to match your requirements. See more about Costa del Sol apartments and villas to suit everyone’s budget.
Costa del Sol Sightseeing,

Drive inland from the resorts on the Costa del Sol to the city of Granada. Here you can see the celebrated centrepiece, the breathtaking Alhambra Palace which locals refer to as the eighth wonder of the world. Set beneath the snow capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, it’s a wonderful blend of lush gardens and intricate Moorish stone masonry. It is easy to leave the crowds of Costa del Sol resorts behind and enter the heart of rural Andalucia. High country roads wind through herb scented hillsides, towards the peaks of the Sierra de Tejeda. The Tejeda’s rugged foothills are speckled with whitewashed villages tucked in every corner.

The Costa del Sol has summer sunshine and a mild winter climate. Average temperatures across the year are around 18ºC with over 300 day’s sunshine. Temperatures inland from Costa del Sol resorts vary with very hot summers and cold winters.
Costa del Sol Beaches

The Costa del Sol is widely acknowledged as the playground of Europe with an abundance of beaches. Torremolinos has a 7 kilometre stretch of unbroken sandy shoreline while Nerja has pretty secluded coves tucked under cliffs. Benalmadina, Fuengirola and Marbella comprise the remaining principal beach resorts, with most offering a range of water sports.      
Costa del Sol Golf

There are now more than 60 Costa del Sol golf courses stretching from Sotogrande in the west to Velez Malaga in the east. With so much good weather the Costa del Sol is a great place to play golf. Courses include;  Valderrama Golf Club - located Avda. de los Cortijos, Sotogrande Costa del Sol; Aloha Golf - located  Aloha, Nueva Andalucia, Marbella Costa del Sol;  Las Brisas - located Nueva Andalucia, Marbella Costa del Sol; Los Naranjos - located Nueva Andalucia, Marbella, Cota del Sol; La Canada - located Avda. Profesor Tierno Galvin, Sotogrande Costa del Sol; Almenara - located Avda. Almenara, Sotogrande Costa del Sol; Alcaidesa. - located Cortijo Las Aguzaderas, La Linea, between Sotogrande and Algeciras Costa del Sol;  El Paraiso Golf Club - located Ctra. de Cadiz Km.167, Estepona Costa del Sol;  Los Flamingos Golf - located Ctra. de Cadiz, Km. 166, Benahavis Costa del Sol

Costa de Almeria is located on the eastern edge of Andulacia. The coastline combines popular resorts with areas of unspoilt natural beauty. Anybody wishing to buy property in Costa de Almeria will not be left disappointed. With its beautiful beaches and fantastic facilities, Costa de Almeria remains one of the most popular regions of Spain for overseas buyers.

Costa de Almeria has something for everyone. Nature lovers and back-packers return year after year to enjoy the quiet coves and the rugged coast of the Cabo del Gato-Nijar natural park. Nearby resorts offer a range of facilities including water sports, paragliding, hiking, horse riding and golf.
Looking for more choice?

Costa de la luz is a 200km stretch of stunning coastline to the far south of Andulacia. With its beautiful beaches and fantastic facilities, Costa de la Luz remains one of the most popular regions of Spain for overseas buyers.

Costa de la Luz is quieter than the other costas, and offers undiscovered peace and tranquility, with its golden sandy beaches, blue seas and unspoilt countryside.

Costa de la Luz remains largely unspoilt due to the lack of building land. This means that Costa de la Luz remains, to this day, a beautiful area of Spain.  The coast offers a variety of water sports and fishing facilities, while the surrounding resturants and cafés offer excellent cuisine and fine wines

Spain is one the most popular destinations for overseas home ownership due not only to the climate but ease and low costs of travel.

There is an unrivalled choice of property available with something to suit everyone from in town to rural: Spain has it all.

The Spanish are famous for their laid back culture and hospitality which contributes to making this an ideal location for retirement or holidaying.

English is spoken widely.

Key PointsA well developed infrastructure along the coastal regions Excellent private medical facilities which are provided free to UK citizens at retirement age. All airports served by the low cost airlines. Cost of living 50% less than the UK Cost of owning a home is very low compared to UK

Travel to Spain By Air

The national airline is Iberia www.iberia.com but many airlines, including a number of low-cost airlines. like Bmibaby and Easyjet operate to Spain. Spain has over 30 international airports and information can be obtained from AENA (Aeropuertos Espanoles y Navegación Aérea) www.aena.es.

Some of the airports are as follows.

Madrid: 13km northeast of the city. Flight time 2hours 30 mins from UK.A bus service departs to the city around every 18 minutes on weekdays and every 19-23 minutes at weekends (0600-2325) and underground services run every four to seven minutes (0600-0200) costing €1. Taxi service is available.

Barcelona: 3km southwest of the city. Flight time 2 hour 15 mins from UK.Bus service to the city departs Mon-Fri every 15 minutes, Sat every 30 mins and Sun every 20 mins (0600-0100). Rail service is every 20 minutes (0625-2350). Taxi service to the city is available, costing about €18 (travel time - 30 minutes).

Almeria: Flying time to Almeria airport takes about 3 hours. Almeria serves the Costa del Almeria including the resorts of Roquetas de Mar, Mojacar and Almerimar. 

Alicante: 12km southwest of the city. Flying time from the UK is about 2 hours and 30 minutes. Alivante airport serves the Costa Blanca including the resorts of Benidorm, Calpe, Denia, Javea and Alfaz del pi. Bus service runs to the city (0655-2310) every 10 to 40 minutes, costing €1. A taxi service is available to the city, costing about €12. There is a taxi connection between Alicante and Valencia Airport.

Málaga: 10km southwest of the city. Flights from the UK take about 3 hours. Malaga airport serves the Costs del Sol area including resorts at Fuengirola, Peurto Banus, Torremolinos, Benalmadena Costa and Nerja.  . Buses into city run every 10 to 30 minutes (0700-0000). A train service runs every 30 minutes, costing €1.05-€1.15 (0700-0000). A taxi service to the city is available.

Murcia: South of Alicante. Flying time 2 hours 30 minutes from UK. Fights into Murcia service the area including the resorts  Torrevieja and Club la Manga.

Train Travel to Spain

The quickest route by train from the UK is through the Channel Tunnel with connections from Paris to Spain. High speed trains from London, Waterloo International to Paris, Gare du Nord take two hours and 40 mons and to Brussels, Midi/Zuid take two hours and 20 mins. For further information contact Eurostar www.eurostar.com; or Rail Europe www.raileurope.co.uk.There are direct trains between Madrid and Paris, Madrid and Lisbon, Barcelona and Paris, Barcelona and Zürich or Milan, Barcelona and Montpelier, also Barcelona and Geneva. These services are called Estrella, Talgo or Train-Hotel. For more information, contact the Spanish Rail service www.spanish-rail.co.uk

Sea Ferry travel to Spain

Main ports:Barcelona www.apb.es, Cadiz www.puertocadiz.com, Santander www.puertosantander.es, Valencia www.valenciaport.com/cultures/es and Vigo  www.apvigo.com.Main Ferry Services:Brittany Ferries  www.brittany-ferries.com operates a service to Santander (on the north coast) from Plymouth (travel time – 18 hours), twice-weekly. P&O European Ferries  www.poportsmouth.com operates a twice-weekly service from Portsmouth to Bilbao (travel time – 35 hours).

Read more about owning or buying a property for sale in Spain from Overseas Property Centres.