ITP in Catalonia 2026: which tax you pay when purchasing a property and how to avoid overpayment

Property Transfer Tax (Impuesto sobre Transmisiones Patrimoniales or ITP) constitutes one of the primary costs of purchasing a second-hand property in Catalonia. Calculating it prior to execution is essential to determining the actual budget of the transaction and verifying whether the purchaser qualifies for any reduced rate.

General Scale of ITP in Catalonia in 2026

For property transfers, the general rate applicable from 27 June 2025 is progressive:

• Up to 600,000 euros: 10%.

• From 600,000 to 900,000 euros: 11% on that band.

• From 900,000 to 1,500,000 euros: 12% on that band.

• In excess of 1,500,000 euros: 13% on that band.

The scale operates by bands. Consequently, exceeding 600,000 euros does not imply that the entire value of the property is automatically taxed at 11%.

Furthermore, specific rules apply to large property holders and to the acquisition of entire residential buildings, which may be subject to a rate of up to 20%. These transactions require case-by-case analysis.

What Value is Used as the Taxable Base

In a purchase and sale transaction subject to Onerous Property Transfers (TPO), the taxable base may not be lower than the reference value of the Cadastre, where such value exists. If the declared price or the agreed consideration is higher, the greater amount is used.

For example, if a property is purchased for 200,000 euros and has a reference value of 220,000 euros, the self-assessment will generally be calculated on the basis of 220,000 euros.

If the reference value does not reflect the actual condition of the property, mechanisms exist to request rectification or to challenge the assessment by providing sufficient evidence. Both the strategy and the documentation must be evaluated before proceeding.

Reduced Rates for Primary Residence

Catalan regulations provide for reduced rates when all respective requirements are met. Among other cases:

• 5% for the primary residence of an individual aged 35 or under.

• 5% for large families.

• 5% for single-parent families.

• 5% for individuals with disabilities under legal terms.

• 5% for victims of gender-based violence.

• Specific rates for social housing and certain rural municipalities.

Belonging to one of these groups is not sufficient in itself: the requirements regarding primary residence, income and documentation provided for each rate must also be satisfied.

New Builds: VAT and Stamp Duty (AJD)

In the case of a first transfer subject to VAT, the general second-hand ITP does not apply. Typically, VAT is payable and, if the transaction is executed by public deed, Stamp Duty (Actos Jurídicos Documentados or AJD) is also due. The general rate of AJD for a transfer subject to and not exempt from VAT is currently 1.5%, without prejudice to special cases.

Deadline for Filing and Paying Form 600

The general deadline in Catalonia is one month from the date of the act or contract. It is calculated from date to date. Late filing may incur surcharges and interest, meaning filing should not be left to the end of the period.

Checks Prior to Signing

• Consulting the reference value.

• Calculating the tax using the progressive scale currently in force.

• Verifying whether there is eligibility for a reduced rate.

• Distinguishing between a second transfer and a transaction subject to VAT.

• Reserving liquidity for tax, notary, registry and other expenses.

At Bufete Trujillo, we analyse the taxation and legal documentation of purchases and sales in Cambrils and the Costa Daurada prior to signing, ensuring the purchaser is aware of the total cost and risks of the transaction.

Source: Catalan Tax Agency (Agència Tributària de Catalunya), rates for TPO and purchase and sale of real estate.

This article is for informational purposes and does not substitute legal or tax advice tailored to the specific case.