Home Insurance in Spain Without NIE or Residency (2026 Guide)
Getting home insurance in Spain without a NIE or Spanish residency is possible, but it is rarely straightforward. This guide explains how home insurance works for non-residents, why applications are often rejected online, and how to insure a property correctly.
Quick Answer
Spanish law does not require a NIE or residency to insure property – ownership alone is enough. However, most online insurers block non-resident applications because their systems are built for residents. Manual underwriting through a broker is typically needed to get proper cover.
- No legal requirement for NIE or residency to insure property in Spain
- Online platforms often reject applications due to internal system requirements
- Insurers accepting non-residents use passport, foreign tax ID, and overseas address
- Buildings cover often required for mortgages; contents may have occupancy restrictions
- Vacancy rules (30/60/90 days empty) are critical for non-resident policies
Is a NIE or Spanish Residency Legally Required?
From a legal perspective, no. Spanish law does not require a person to be a resident, nor to hold a NIE, in order to insure a property located in Spain. Property ownership alone is enough to create an insurable interest.
The difficulty arises at insurer level. Many Spanish insurers design their systems for resident policyholders. Online application forms often require a NIE as a mandatory field, even though this is an internal operational requirement, not a legal one. As a result, non-residents are frequently blocked from completing applications despite being legally eligible for cover.
Why Non-Residents Are Often Rejected by Online Insurers
Most online insurance platforms in Spain are built for speed and automation. They assume that the policyholder is resident, registered in Spain, and already present in national databases. When these assumptions are not met, the system simply refuses the application.
This does not mean the risk is unacceptable. It usually means the case requires manual underwriting. Insurers that accept non-residents typically assess the property and the owner individually, rather than relying on automated scoring. This is why brokers play a significant role in non-resident home insurance cases.
Who Typically Needs Home Insurance Without NIE or Residency?
This situation is extremely common among foreign buyers and expats. It often affects people who have already committed financially to a property but are still waiting for administrative steps to be completed.
Typical Examples
- •Non-residents buying a second home or holiday property in Spain
- •Investors purchasing property to rent or hold
- •Expats relocating to Spain who have not yet obtained a NIE
- •Buyers whose mortgage completion requires insurance before residency is granted
Can You Insure a Property Before Obtaining a NIE?
In many cases, yes. Insurers that accept non-residents usually work with alternative identification. This may include a passport, a foreign tax identification number, and a non-Spanish residential address. What matters most is that the property itself can be clearly identified and that ownership or purchase intent can be demonstrated.
However, fewer insurers offer this flexibility, and pricing or coverage terms may differ from resident policies. This is why non-resident insurance is rarely found through comparison websites.
What Type of Home Insurance Can Non-Residents Obtain?
Non-residents can usually insure the building, the contents, or both, depending on the situation.
Buildings Insurance
Covers the physical structure of the property, including walls, fixed installations, and damage caused by events such as fire or water leaks. This type of insurance is often mandatory if the property is financed with a mortgage.
Contents Insurance
Covers furniture, appliances, and personal belongings. For non-residents, contents cover is sometimes restricted, especially if the property is not occupied year-round.
In some cases, insurers offer combined home insurance policies, but these often include additional conditions related to occupancy and security. For more on this topic, see our guide on buildings vs contents insurance in Spain.
Mortgage Requirements for Non-Residents
Spanish banks routinely provide mortgages to non-residents, but insurance requirements are strict. Understanding these requirements before completion saves significant stress.
What Banks Require
- Buildings insurance mandatory – Must cover at least the rebuild value specified by the bank
- Bank named as beneficiary – The insurance certificate must list the bank as first beneficiary
- Policy in place before completion – Insurance must be arranged before the notary signing
- Annual renewal evidence – Banks may request proof of renewal each year
Your Rights
Spanish law (Law 2/1981 on the mortgage market) protects borrowers from being forced to use the bank's own insurance. You have the right to choose any insurer that meets the bank's minimum requirements.
In practice, banks often pressure buyers to use their own products by bundling insurance with preferential interest rates. Compare the total cost over the loan term before deciding.
Common Mortgage Insurance Mistakes
- • Underinsuring the rebuild value – Banks may reject policies that don't meet their minimum
- • Forgetting to name the bank – The certificate must explicitly name the bank as beneficiary
- • Last-minute arrangements – Non-resident policies take longer; start 4-6 weeks before completion
- • Contents-only policies – Banks require buildings cover; contents is optional
Occupancy Rules and Vacancy Restrictions
One of the most critical aspects of non-resident home insurance is understanding vacancy clauses. Most policies include strict limits on how long a property can remain unoccupied.
30 Days
Strictest policies. Common for basic or budget insurers. Theft and water damage often excluded after this period.
60 Days
Standard for many non-resident policies. Most popular option. Covers seasonal use with regular visits.
90 Days
Extended vacancy cover. Available from specialist insurers. Higher premiums but more flexibility.
What Happens If You Exceed Vacancy Limits?
- • Water damage claims – Often excluded entirely or limited to burst pipe only
- • Theft claims – Typically rejected if property was unoccupied beyond the limit
- • Vandalism – Usually excluded during extended vacancy
- • Policy validity – Some insurers may void the entire policy if vacancy rules are breached
How to Comply with Vacancy Requirements
- •Regular visits: Have someone check the property at least every 30-45 days
- •Property management: Appoint a local keyholding service or property manager
- •Smart home devices: Some insurers accept water leak sensors and smart locks as mitigation
- •Documented visits: Keep records of visits (photos with dates, receipts from local shops)
How Occupancy Affects Insurance Without Residency
One of the most important factors in non-resident home insurance is how the property is used. Insurers assess risk very differently depending on whether a property is occupied permanently, used as a holiday home, rented out, or left vacant for long periods.
Properties that are empty for extended periods are considered higher risk, particularly for water damage and burglary. As a result, non-resident policies often include stricter rules, such as limits on how long the property can remain unoccupied, requirements for regular inspections, or conditions related to alarms and security systems.
Failure to comply with these conditions can affect claims, even if the policy itself is valid. For holiday properties, see our second home insurance guide.
Mortgage Requirements and Insurance Timing
For buyers using a Spanish mortgage, insurance timing is critical. Banks usually require buildings insurance to be in place before loan completion, and the bank may need to be listed as a beneficiary on the policy. This requirement applies regardless of residency status.
While banks often offer their own insurance products, borrowers are generally allowed to choose an independent insurer as long as the policy meets the bank's conditions. For non-residents, arranging this insurance in advance avoids delays at completion. See our mortgage home insurance guide for more details.
Risks of Owning Property Without Insurance
Owning property in Spain without insurance carries significant risk, even if the property is rarely used. Fire, water damage, and liability claims can affect neighbouring properties or common areas, and owners are legally responsible for these damages.
For mortgaged properties, lack of insurance can also breach loan conditions. Even without a mortgage, uninsured losses can quickly exceed the cost of insurance premiums.
Claims Process for Non-Residents
Making a claim when you're not physically in Spain requires extra preparation. Understanding the process in advance prevents delays and rejected claims.
Report Immediately
Contact your insurer within 7 days (some policies require 48 hours for theft)
Arrange Access
Assessors need entry. Appoint a keyholder or property manager in advance
Document Everything
Photos, videos, receipts. Have your keyholder take extensive documentation
Police Report
Required for theft and vandalism claims. Your keyholder can file on your behalf
The Importance of a Local Contact
Most non-resident claim problems stem from lack of local access. Insurers can't wait weeks for you to fly in. Having a trusted person with keys is essential for:
- • Providing immediate access to assessors and emergency repair teams
- • Taking photos and documenting damage before repairs
- • Meeting contractors for repair quotes
- • Filing police reports for theft or vandalism
- • Turning off water/electricity in emergencies
Emergency Coordination Services
Some premium non-resident policies include 24/7 emergency coordination. The insurer's team arranges emergency access, coordinates repairs, and manages contractors on your behalf. This costs more but provides significant peace of mind for owners who can't travel at short notice.
What Documentation Is Usually Required?
Although requirements vary, insurers commonly ask for:
- •Passport or other identification documents
- •Property address and details
- •Copy of the purchase contract or deed
- •Estimated rebuild value of the property
Some insurers also request information about how often the property is used and whether it is rented out.
Regional Considerations for Non-Resident Properties
Where your property is located affects both availability and terms of non-resident insurance. Certain regions have specific risks that insurers assess carefully.
Flood-Prone Areas
Parts of the Costa Blanca, Costa del Sol, and Murcia region experience periodic flooding (gota frÃa). Insurers may:
- • Apply higher flood excesses (€3,000-€6,000)
- • Exclude ground floor contents in high-risk zones
- • Require flood barriers or pumps for basement areas
Rural and Remote Properties
Fincas and rural properties face specific challenges:
- • Fire risk from dry vegetation (especially in summer)
- • Longer response times for emergency services
- • Access road conditions may affect coverage
- • Water supply issues (well/deposit vs mains)
Apartment Buildings
If your property is in a communal building:
- • The community's buildings insurance covers the structure
- • You need contents insurance for your belongings
- • Check if community policy includes liability
- • Some policies extend to cover your liability for damage to neighbours
Tourist Hotspots
Properties in areas like Marbella, Ibiza, or Barcelona:
- • Higher theft rates affect premiums
- • Security system requirements more common
- • Holiday rental restrictions may apply
- • High-value contents need specified items cover
What Changes Once You Obtain a NIE or Residency?
Once you obtain a NIE or become a Spanish resident, the insurance landscape usually improves. More insurers become available, policy terms may be broader, and premiums can be more competitive. In many cases, an existing non-resident policy can be updated rather than replaced.
At that stage, many owners transition to a standard home insurance policy in Spain, with fewer restrictions and wider coverage.
Summary: Key Points for Non-Resident Home Insurance
- No legal requirement for NIE or residency
- Use a broker for manual underwriting
- Understand vacancy limits (30/60/90 days)
- Arrange mortgage insurance 4-6 weeks early
- Appoint a local keyholder for claims
- Consider regional risks (flood, fire, theft)
- Keep visit records to prove occupancy
- Review policy annually as situation changes
Expert reviewed
Written and reviewed by licensed insurance agents Maya Kallio and Marco Elsinger, who have helped over 15,000 expats in Spain since 2012.
Maya Kallio
Licensed Insurance Agent
Since 2012
Marco Elsinger
Licensed Insurance Agent
10+ years
Languages: English, Finnish, Spanish, German
Frequently asked questions
Still have questions? Check these answers or get in touch.
Is a NIE legally required for home insurance in Spain?
No. Spanish law does not require a NIE or residency to insure a property. Property ownership alone creates an insurable interest. The difficulties arise from insurers' internal systems, which often require a NIE as a mandatory field even though it's not a legal requirement.
Why do online insurers reject my application without a NIE?
Most online insurance platforms in Spain are built for resident policyholders. They assume you're registered in Spain and already in national databases. When these assumptions aren't met, the system blocks the application. This doesn't mean the risk is unacceptable – it means the case requires manual underwriting.
What documents do I need to insure property as a non-resident?
Insurers commonly ask for a passport, property details and address, a copy of the purchase contract or deed, and an estimated rebuild value. Some also request information about how often the property is used and whether it's rented out.
Can I get buildings and contents insurance without residency?
Yes. Non-residents can usually insure the building, the contents, or both. Buildings insurance covers the structure and is often mandatory for mortgaged properties. Contents cover protects furniture and belongings, though it may be restricted for properties not occupied year-round.
How does property occupancy affect my insurance?
Properties empty for extended periods are considered higher risk, especially for water damage and burglary. Many non-resident policies include limits on how long the property can remain unoccupied, requirements for regular inspections, or conditions related to security systems.
What happens if I own property in Spain without insurance?
Owning without insurance carries significant risk. Fire, water damage, and liability claims can affect neighbouring properties, and you're legally responsible. For mortgaged properties, lack of insurance can breach loan conditions. Uninsured losses can quickly exceed the cost of premiums.
Can I get insurance before the property purchase completes?
In many cases, yes. For buyers using a Spanish mortgage, banks usually require buildings insurance before loan completion. Insurers that accept non-residents often work with alternative identification like passports and foreign tax numbers.
What changes once I obtain a NIE or residency?
Once you obtain a NIE or become a Spanish resident, more insurers become available, policy terms may be broader, and premiums can be more competitive. In many cases, an existing non-resident policy can be updated rather than replaced.
Will my bank accept non-resident home insurance for a Spanish mortgage?
Yes, as long as the policy meets the bank's requirements: adequate rebuild value coverage, the bank named as beneficiary, and valid insurance certificate. Banks cannot legally force you to use their own insurance product, though they may pressure you to do so.
What is the typical vacancy limit for non-resident policies?
Most non-resident policies include vacancy clauses of 30, 60, or 90 consecutive days. If the property remains unoccupied beyond this period, certain covers (especially water damage and theft) may be restricted or excluded. Some insurers require periodic inspections.
Can I claim on my policy if I'm abroad when damage occurs?
Yes, but you'll need someone in Spain to provide access for assessors. Many non-resident owners appoint a property manager or trusted neighbour. Some policies include emergency coordination services that can arrange access and repairs on your behalf.
Are there special requirements for properties on the coast or in flood zones?
Yes. Coastal properties, especially in areas prone to flooding (like parts of the Costa Blanca or Costa del Sol), may face additional requirements: flood exclusions, higher excesses, or mandatory storm shutters. Insurers assess postcode-level risk data.
Related guides
You might also find these useful:
Ready to get covered?
When you're ready, compare real insurance options in Spain and request a personalised quote in English.
Get a home insurance quote
Tell us about your property and situation. We work with insurers that accept non-residents and can arrange cover before you have a NIE.
Speak with an expert
Not sure what cover you need as a non-resident? Contact us for straightforward advice in English.