Yes, there are some differences in the process of buying property in Fuerteventura (and in Spain in general) when you are a non-European Union (EU) citizen. Some legal requirements might be different for non-EU citizens. Although with the right legal assistance, this shouldn’t be any obstacle at all.

Do I have the same (legal) rights as being a non-European citizen?

While the process for buying property in Fuerteventura as a non-EU citizen is rather similar to that of EU citizens, it does involve additional legal and financial requirements, especially when it comes to obtaining a mortgage.

Are the costs different for purchasing from a non-European country?

The property conveyancing process is the same for whether you are an EU or non-EU citizen, including costs and taxes related to the purchase process are identical. 

Do I need a Military Permit for purchasing a property?

An important element when you are purchasing a property in Fuerteventura as a non-European citizen is to evaluate at the beginning of the purchase process if a so-called “Military Permit” is required.

We are all surprised that a law has been in force since 1975 (https://wLey 8/1975, de 12 de marzo, de zonas e instalaciones de interés para la Defensa Nacional.) can be applied in these modern times, and that a military authorisation can be required from a potential buyer prior to the purchase transaction of a small piece of land.

Certainly, this seems to be alien to normal logic in these days of international mobility and circulation but until the moment that this law doesn’t get changed, we can do nothing but comply with the law.

This regulation is in force, and we must comply with it. If not fulfilled the island’s Public Notaries will not proceed to authorize the deed of sale.

This Military Authorisation requires the necessary presentation of several documents like a valid criminal record certificate, the details of the interested party, the details of the property to be acquired, the cadastral plan, etc.

The application process can take in between 3-6 months before granted, depending on the size of the plot.

Therefore, it is important that your lawyer evaluates this element before you formally agree on the conditions for completing a purchase transaction.

We are at your service

It’s strongly recommended to hire an expert (local) lawyer, who does speak your language, and who will guide you through the entire process. 

At LAJARES LAW OFFICES have a wide experience with assisting clients from all over the world. We are aware of the criteria applied in Fuerteventura, which sometimes differ in some nuances depending on the Notary or Land Registry where the property is located or on the competent military authority. Besides covering all legal terms of the acquisition process, we will prepare your military permit application file and handle all specific legal and fiscal requirements related to your non EU-citizenship.

Therefore, before you decide on the purchase of a property make sure to contact our office.

Because, all you need is Law.