If you’re a British citizen or any other non-EU national, you might be wondering whether you need defence permission to buy property in Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, or Formentera. The short answer is yes—you need authorization from the Spanish Ministry of Defence when purchasing in rural or strategic areas of Spain.
This requirement has been in effect since January 1, 2021, when the UK officially left the European Union.
Is This a Problem for British Buyers?
Not at all—if you plan ahead. It’s simply another step in the purchasing process, and with the right guidance, it can be handled smoothly. British need defence permission to buy in Mallorca, but law allow them to get it.
?ￂﾠNeed help? Feel free to contact me for assistance with obtaining defence permission.
Why Do British Citizens Need Defence Permission?
The regulation dates back to 1975, designed to protect areas of national security interest. Since the Balearic Islands are classified as strategic zones, all non-EU buyers—including British citizens—must obtain clearance before purchasing property in these areas.
Will Defence Permission Always Be Required for British Buyers?
Currently, there’s no clear answer. Spain has agreements with some non-EU European countries that waive this requirement. In the future, a similar agreement could be established with the United Kingdom, eliminating the need for defence permission. But the fact is today British need defence permission to buy in Mallorca.
Is It Difficult to Get Defence Permission in Mallorca?
No, but it takes time. The process is straightforward if you know what to do, but approval typically takes between 2 to 4 months.
?ￂﾠPro Tip: Start the process as soon as possible to avoid delays in your property purchase.
What If I Need to Buy a Property in Mallorca Quickly?
If you don’t have defence permission yet but need to purchase a property urgently, there are solutions:
✔️ You can sign the deed at the notary.
✔️ You can pay the taxes.
❌ However, you cannot register the property under your name at the Land Registry until you obtain the permit.
This means you won’t have full legal protection over the property until it’s officially registered. If you’re in a rush, don’t waste a single day—apply for the permit immediately.
What Documents Are Required to Apply for Defence Permission?
The required documents for British buyers are the same as those for any other non-EU national. To ensure a smooth process, make sure you have all the necessary paperwork in order.
ￂﾠNeed expert guidance? Feel free to contact me to navigate this process efficiently.
Find here the list of documents
Feel free to contact me if you want me to help you with this process.
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