How buying property works, country by country.

Buying property in Spain

Spain welcomes foreign buyers with no nationality restrictions. The buyer needs an NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) before completion, and most buyers open a Spanish bank account to handle the deposit and ongoing charges. An independent lawyer (abogado) is strongly recommended — the notario only checks the deed, not the wider title.

Buying property in France

France places no restrictions on foreign property ownership. The notaire (a public official, not a lawyer for either side) handles the conveyance and is paid by the buyer. A French bank account is strongly recommended for completion funds and ongoing charges.

Buying property in Italy

Italy is open to most foreign buyers under reciprocity rules (EU/EEA buyers always; non-EU buyers from countries with bilateral agreements, which covers the UK, US, Canada, Australia and most major markets). A codice fiscale is required, and a notaio handles the conveyance as a neutral public official. An independent lawyer or geometra is strongly recommended for due diligence.

Buying property in Portugal

Portugal is open to foreign buyers with no restrictions on ownership. A NIF (tax number) and Portuguese bank account are required, and most buyers engage an independent lawyer to handle searches, contracts, and the public deed.