NIE, power of attorney and bank account for a Mallorca property purchase

What the NIE does

The NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) identifies you before the Spanish tax authorities. You need it to sign the deed, pay purchase taxes, open a bank account and contract utilities. It is not a residence permit. It can be obtained at a Spanish consulate abroad, at a police station in Spain with an appointment, or through a representative with a power of attorney.

Using a power of attorney

Where you sign	Formalities
Notary in Spain	Ready the same day
Spanish consulate abroad	Valid directly in Spain; appointment needed
Local notary abroad	Apostille (Hague Convention) and sworn translation

We recommend a specific power limited to the property: signing the private contract and the deed, paying the price and taxes, applying for the NIE, opening an account and registering utilities. Avoid general powers you do not need.

Do you need a Spanish bank account?

Not always legally, but it makes life easier: banker's drafts for completion, direct debits for IBI and community fees, and utilities. Account opening for non-residents can take weeks because of anti-money-laundering checks, so start early.

Source of funds and international transfers

The notary records how the price is paid, and banks ask where the money comes from. Prepare documents showing the source: sale of another property, savings, inheritance, a loan. Plan currency exchange in advance and make sure funds arrive several days before completion.

Couples and companies

If you buy as a couple, each buyer needs an NIE, and the deed must record how you acquire: in equal shares, in other proportions or under your marital property regime. A power of attorney can be granted by both spouses to the same attorney. If you buy through a company, the company needs its own tax number, its representative must be identified and the beneficial owners declared to the notary.

After completion

Keep your NIE, bank details and address updated with the Spanish tax authorities, as most notifications are now electronic. Set up direct debits for IBI and community fees. If you do not live in Spain, consider appointing a lawyer or adviser to file your annual non-resident tax return and receive notifications on your behalf.

A remote-buyer timetable

1. Week 1: instruct a lawyer, sign the power of attorney, apply for the NIE.
2. Weeks 1–3: due diligence and arras contract signed by your attorney.
3. Weeks 2–6: bank account, transfer of funds, mortgage if needed.
4. Completion: your attorney signs the deed and pays; you receive the keys and copies.

Non-EU buyers may also need military authorisation in some areas. See our NIE and remote representation service. For other legal matters in English, see Castell.law.