What are Military Clearances and when are they required when buying property?

There has been a lot of talk lately about military authorisations in the process of buying properties in Galicia — but what are they really, and who do they affect?

Military authorisations are permits required by the Ministry of Defence in certain cases when purchasing properties in areas considered of strategic interest for national defence. These areas are typically located near the coast, borders, or in rural spaces of particular relevance. While this may seem surprising, it is a regulation currently in force in Spain that applies to certain locations, including several in Galicia.

Who needs this authorisation?

This permit is required only for foreign buyers who are not citizens of the European Union — that is, nationals of third countries, such as citizens of the United States, China, Russia, the United Kingdom or South American countries, among others.

However, it may also be mandatory for EU foreign buyers when acquiring properties in the name of a company registered outside the European Union. It is therefore essential to be aware of all the legal details before starting the purchase process.

Which properties are subject to this authorisation?

In Galicia, the need for this authorisation depends primarily on the location of the property. Some of the most affected areas are those close to the coast or situated in strategic zones. These areas are classified as being of "military interest" due to their geographical or strategic relevance to national defence.

If you are thinking of buying, it is therefore important to verify whether the location falls within these zones. This is why it is key to have a trusted estate agent who can clearly inform you of these requirements — as we do at Grupo Country Homes.

Why does this regulation exist?

This legislation has its roots in historical and security reasons. Although it may seem like an outdated measure (dating back to the 1970s), it remains in force in Spain to protect areas considered strategically important from a military point of view. In practice, rather than a barrier, it is simply an administrative procedure to ensure that the purchase complies with legal and security regulations.

What happens if the authorisation is not requested?

Without the military authorisation, even if the purchase is formalised before a notary, it cannot be registered in the Land Registry. This means that full legal recognition as the owner will not be obtained, which can lead to problems in the future. It is therefore essential to handle this procedure correctly to avoid legal complications.

How can Grupo Country Homes help you?

We know that this type of procedure can seem complicated or daunting, but at Grupo Country Homes we have experience in managing military authorisations for our clients. We take care of the entire process — from verifying whether the property requires authorisation, to submitting the necessary documentation and following up with the Ministry of Defence.

This way, you can focus on enjoying your new property in Galicia, without worrying about the bureaucratic aspects.

If you have any questions about military authorisations or need help with your purchase, do not hesitate to get in touch with us. We are here to make the entire process as straightforward as possible and will be delighted to help you.

Want to know more? Take a look at our Instagram video.