Can Non-Residents Legally Buy A Car In Spain?

Can Non-Residents Legally Buy A Car In Spain?

When it comes to vehicle ownership in Spain, many non-residents wonder if they can legally buy a car. Whether you are a second homeowner or spend only part of your time in the country, understanding the rules is essential. While urban areas often offer excellent public transportation, owning a car may be necessary in rural areas or for weekend getaways.

The good news is that non-residents can legally purchase a car in Spain, regardless of nationality. However, the process and required documentation may vary slightly depending on your residency status and origin country.

According to the General Directorate of Traffic (DGT), foreign nationals can buy a Spanish-registered car if they can provide valid documentation — this does not necessarily mean full residency status.

What Documentation Does a Non-Resident Need?

The specific documentation requirements can vary slightly, but typically one or more of the following will be accepted as proof of address or connection to Spain:

• Official Spanish residency certificate (TIE or green EU card)
• NIE number (Número de Identidad de Extranjero)
• Padrón (municipal registration)
• Property ownership title deeds
• Long-term rental contract

If you're not a resident but you own or rent a property in Spain, you can typically provide sufficient proof to register a vehicle.

183-Day Rule for Non-EU Nationals

Non-resident non-EU nationals should be mindful of the 183-day rule. Staying in Spain more than 183 days in a year (even non-consecutively) could trigger tax residency. For this reason, short-term stays might be better served by renting a car rather than buying one.

Can Non-Residents Finance a Car in Spain?

Yes — but it can be more complicated. Spanish lenders usually require:

• Proof of income or pension
• Bank statements or tax returns
• Spanish bank account

Foreign documents may be accepted but must often be officially translated and validated.

Legal Requirements at the Time of Purchase

According to Spain's Official State Bulletin (BOE), a non-resident purchaser must present valid ID from their home country — such as a passport or EEA identity card — along with proof of address in Spain. For example:

• Certificate of empadronamiento
• Rental lease or utility bill
• Property deed

Legal entities (e.g., companies) must also provide a tax identification number (CIF/NIF) and representative ID documents.

Conclusion

In summary, non-residents — whether EU or non-EU citizens — can legally buy a car in Spain, provided they meet documentation requirements. While financing and insurance can be more complex, ownership is legally permitted. Just be sure to factor in the 183-day tax rule and confirm the documentation with your local DGT office or gestor before purchasing.

Sources:

DGT - Dirección General de Tráfico

HealthPlan Spain - NIE Number Guide

HealthPlan Spain - Empadronamiento

HealthPlan Spain - Non-Resident Tax Rules

HealthPlan Spain - Tax Codes