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Nota Simple in Spain: What It Is and How to Obtain It

Nota Simple in Spain: What It Is and How to Obtain It

Created05.09.2025, 17.20

Updated05.09.2025, 17.51

What Is Nota Simple in Spain? The nota simple registral is Spain’s official property extract, issued by the Land Registry. It provides the most up-to-date information about a Spanish property. For anyone considering buying property in Spain, checking the nota simple is a smart first step. In this guide, we explain what it is, why it matters for buyers, and how you can get one.

What Is Nota Simple in Spain?

A nota simple is an official extract from the Spanish Land Registry that provides brief information about a property. It shows the property’s current legal standing as recorded in the registry.

It’s important to note that a nota simple is not the same as a property deed. The deed records the transfer of ownership at the notary. Meanwhile, nota simple provides the most recent registry information. You can think of it as a concise property profile, similar to a credit report, but for real estate.

Why Is a Nota Simple Important When Buying a House in Spain?

The nota simple is one of the most important documents in the Spanish property purchase process. It reveals essential information about the property, like any ongoing obligations. Reviewing the nota simple before buying a property in Spain ensures transparency throughout the process. It also supports informed decision-making. By doing so, buyers can feel confident that the property aligns with their expectations.

What Information Does a Nota Simple Contain in Spain?

Ownership Details: It confirms the current legal owner or owners of the property. This ensures buyers about who holds the title.

Property Description: The nota simple includes the property’s official description, including size, boundaries, location, and intended use. This provides clarity about the asset being purchased.

Financial Information: It highlights any registered financial commitments, such as mortgages. This helps buyers see the complete financial picture of the property.

Legal Status: The extract shows the property’s legal framework, including planning guidelines or municipal notes recorded in the registry.

Third-Party Rights (Easements): It specifies if other parties have defined rights connected to the property, such as shared access or service rights.

Legal Significance of the Nota Simple in Spain

Beyond outlining a property’s legal standing, the nota simple plays a key role in the purchase process. It provides a reliable foundation for making well-informed decisions when buying real estate in Spain.

Although it is not the full legal title, the nota simple is an essential part of due diligence. It helps clarify the property’s official record and supports a transparent, confident transaction.

Notaries and banks also rely on the nota simple to move forward with property sales, mortgage approvals, and other related procedures.

How to Get a Nota Simple in Spain

Before requesting a nota simple, you need some basic details about the property. These can include the property ID (IDUFIR or CRU), the current owner’s full name with tax ID (NIF), the exact address, or the registry reference number.

Once you have this information, the next step is choosing how to request the document. There are two main ways: online or in person. Most buyers prefer to obtain the nota simple in Spain online, as it is quicker and more convenient.

Online requests can be made through the official Land Registry website. The process is straightforward and suitable for those outside Spain as well. For in-person requests, you can visit the local Property Registry office (Registro de la Propiedad) where the property is registered.

Having accurate property details at hand makes either process smoother and faster.

How Much Does a Nota Simple in Spain Cost?

Online requests usually cost around €9.02 plus VAT.
In-person requests are generally around €3.64 plus VAT.

How Long Does It Take to Receive a Nota Simple?

Online: often ready within a few hours.
In person: can be ready the same day, though in some rare cases it may take up to three business days.

Can Foreigners Request a Nota Simple in Spain?

Yes. Foreigners can request a nota simple, either online or in person. They don’t need residency in Spain, and can also make requests from abroad. Buyers, lawyers, or real estate agents can all obtain the document, as long as the necessary property details are provided.
A nota simple provides the essential property information you need before moving forward with a purchase. It is a small investment that brings clarity and confidence to your decision. Once you obtain the nota simple registral in Spain, you’ll be well prepared for the next steps in securing your Spanish home.