What is the 'Nota Simple' in Spain and how do you get one?

If you’re buying property in Spain, it’s important to make sure your new home has all the necessary documentation. This includes different contracts and permits, but perhaps most importantly, the Nota Simple.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything about the Nota Simple in Spain. We’ll explain what it is, how you can get it and how much it costs.

We’ll also mention a cost-effective solution when buying property overseas. With the Wise account, you can send money between the UK and Spain at the mid-market exchange rate, with low and transparent fees*.

➡️ Learn more about the Wise account

What is the 'Nota Simple' in Spain?

A Nota Simple is an official extract from Spain’s Land Registry. It provides up-to-date information about a property’s legal status and any ongoing obligations.¹

It’s important to distinguish this document from a property deed, which records the transfer of ownership at the notary. The Nota Simple, on the other hand, offers a concise overview of who owns the property, how it’s described and whether there are any legal obligations attached to it, such as mortgages or debts.¹

Why do you need a 'Nota Simple'?

For buyers, the Nota Simple is a key due diligence document. It helps confirm ownership and understand the property’s legal and financial situation, allowing you to avoid unpleasant surprises. Notaries and banks also rely on the Nota Simple for property sales and mortgage approvals.¹

In Spain, debts are sometimes tied to a property rather than to the owner. This means that when a property is sold, the buyer may inherit existing debts. However, by reviewing a recent Nota Simple, you can check whether there are any mortgages, unpaid taxes or other charges linked to the property.²

The Nota Simple is also important because it shows how the land has been classified, which helps you understand whether building or renovation is permitted. It also contains information about third-party rights affecting the property, such as public roads, rights of way or sewage lines.²

Once you obtain the Nota Simple, you should compare it with the property listing and the actual condition of the property. Since it provides precise details about boundaries and size, you can verify whether the official description matches what you see in person.

It can help you identify illegally built structures, which may be difficult or impossible to register later. Although this is uncommon, authorities have the power to tear down illegally built objects, making the Nota Simple an essential document.²

The Nota Simple confirms who the legal owner of the property is and who holds the title.¹ This can also be useful when renting, as it helps verify that the person offering the property for rent is the registered owner with the right to enter a rental agreement.

How to get the 'Nota Simple'?

The Nota Simple can be requested either online or in person. To make a request, you’ll need basic property details such as the property address and ID (IDUFIR or CRU), the owner’s full name and NIF or the Land Registry reference number.¹

You have the right to request the Nota Simple as a foreigner, even if you don’t have residency in Spain. You can obtain it through your lawyer or real estate agent, or request it yourself, as long as you have the necessary property details.¹

Online requests are particularly popular due to their convenience, especially for buyers living abroad. You can make the request through the official Land Registry website and receive it within a few hours.¹
If you prefer to request the Nota Simple in person, you can visit the local Property Registry office, known as the Registro de la Propiedad. In most cases, you’ll receive the document on the same day, although it may take up to three business days.¹

How much does the 'Nota Simple' cost?

Obtaining the Nota Simple is inexpensive, although the cost varies depending on the method used. In person requests cost €3.64 plus VAT, while online applications cost €9.02 plus VAT.¹

Importance of obtaining this documentation

The Nota Simple in Spain is one of the most important documents you’ll need when buying property. It provides clear and official information about the legal status of a property, confirms ownership and reveals any debts that could affect its use or value.

By reviewing the Nota Simple carefully, you’ll be able to identify potential legal risks before entering into a transaction. This makes it an essential tool for making informed and secure decisions.

Need to cover other property costs in Spain? Save money with Wise

To save money on property purchase expenses in Spain, including the cost of obtaining the Nota Simple, you can use Wise. Wise helps you avoid high exchange fees and allows you to safely transfer large sums between the UK and Spain.

With a Wise account, you can send money internationally at low fees and at the mid-market exchange rate. You can hold multiple currencies in one place, including euros and British pounds, making it easier to manage your finances between the UK and Spain when viewing properties or handling documentation.

You can also get a linked debit card to use in 160+ countries, including Spain. The card automatically converts your pounds to the local currency at the mid-market exchange rate whenever you spend. You’ll just pay a small conversion fee*, or no fee if you already have the currency in your Wise account.

➡️ Learn more about the Wise account

Sources used:

1. TEKCE - how to obtain a Nota Simple and the cost
2. Strong Abogados - what the Nota Simple does

Sources last checked on date: 15-Dec-2025