Residents and non-residents alike can legally personal a automotive in Spain – right here’s learn how to do it proper.
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Considering of shopping for a automotive in Spain? Whether or not you’re residing right here full-time or simply absorbing the solar for a part of the 12 months, the excellent news is: sure, after all, foreigners can legally purchase a automotive in Spain – whether or not you’re a resident or not.
However earlier than you race off to seize the keys to your dream motor, there’s a little bit of crimson tape to navigate. Shopping for a automotive in Spain isn’t so simple as flashing your money – particularly if you’re not a Spanish citizen.
Right here’s your no-nonsense information to getting on the highway with out getting caught out.
What you’ll want to purchase a automotive in Spain (resident or not)
Whether or not you’re a everlasting resident or simply visiting repeatedly, you’ll want to point out proof that you’ve acquired a real hyperlink to Spain. That might imply:
- Your NIE (Foreigner’s Identification Quantity) – important for any authorized or monetary transaction
- Proof of deal with in Spain – both a property deed or a rental contract
- A certificates of registration (empadronamiento) out of your native city corridor
- Legitimate ID or passport
- A sound driving licence
These paperwork apply whether or not you’re shopping for new or second-hand.
If you’re already a authorized resident, you probably have most of this sorted. If you’re not, you’ll nonetheless want to point out you’ve acquired a registered presence within the nation – even when you’re simply renting a flat part-time.
Step-by-step: The way to purchase a automotive in Spain (for foreigners of all stripes)
1. Examine for money owed or points
Earlier than signing something, be certain that the automotive isn’t carrying hidden baggage – unpaid fines, highway tax money owed, or administrative embargoes. You’ll be able to test all this by the DGT (Spain’s visitors authority).
2. Signal a correct gross sales contract
Each purchaser and vendor must signal each web page, and embody ID copies. You’ll additionally want the automobile’s technical passport (ficha técnica) and proof of up-to-date highway tax.
3. Pay the switch tax
Often known as the Impuesto de Transmisiones Patrimoniales, that is charged on used autos and is determined by the automotive’s age and area. Charges often vary between 4% and eight%.
4. Register the change of possession
The automotive should be registered in your identify on the DGT inside 30 days of buy. Skipping this step means you don’t legally personal the automobile – and any fines or accidents might nonetheless be tied to the earlier proprietor. If you’re shopping for from a dealer, they are going to do that for you and the charge is often included within the worth of the automotive.
5. Vendor submits a Discover of Sale
This lets the vendor formally step away from accountability – particularly necessary in case you get caught by a velocity digicam the following day.
Sure, you want insurance coverage – irrespective of the place you’re from
Whether or not you’re a long-term expat, a digital nomad or a seasonal customer, you will need to insure your automobile in Spain earlier than taking it on the highway. Insurers will ask for:
- Your ID
- A sound driving licence
- The automotive’s technical passport (PTS)
- Proof of buy
- Legitimate ITV certificates (Spain’s automobile inspection physique)
What about shopping for a automotive second-hand?
Shopping for second-hand is a well-liked route – particularly for foreigners who need flexibility with out breaking the financial institution. However tread rigorously.
Non-public gross sales might be dangerous, particularly if you’re not fluent in Spanish or clued up on native legal guidelines. To keep away from being bought a lemon, think about shopping for from a good seller, who gives full inspections and ensures. Nonetheless, you might be shocked at how costly second-hand vehicles might be in Spain when put next with different nations just like the UK or Germany.
Can I carry my automotive from overseas?
Completely – however brace your self for the paperwork.
To import a automotive with international plates into Spain, you’ll must:
- Move the ITV inspection
- Pay the particular transport tax
- Pay the automobile registration tax
- Register with the DGT (paperwork should be in Spanish)
- Pay VAT if relevant
- Get a Spanish quantity plate
- Pay the circulation tax
- Cowl the registration charge
Resident or not, you’re good to go – with the proper paperwork
So there you’ve got it – whether or not you’re a full-time expat, a part-time resident, or simply popping over for the season, you possibly can legally personal and drive a automotive in Spain. However skip the authorized steps and you can be in for a nasty shock.
Backside line? Spain’s roads are open to all – however provided that you observe the principles.
Learn extra information written for individuals living in Spain.
Learn extra motoring information.
