📊 Tax Clarity: Understanding Spanish tax obligations is crucial for legal compliance and financial planning. This guide breaks down complex requirements into manageable steps.
Tax Residency in Spain
Your tax obligations depend on your residency status. You're considered a Spanish tax resident if:
- You spend more than 183 days in Spain during a calendar year
- Your center of economic interests is in Spain
- Your spouse and minor children reside in Spain (unless legally separated)
Tax Resident vs. Non-Resident
🏠 Tax Residents
- Pay tax on worldwide income
- File annual tax return (IRPF)
- Progressive tax rates (19-47%)
- Access to tax deductions and allowances
🌍 Non-Residents
- Pay tax only on Spanish-source income
- Flat tax rate (24% for EU citizens, 24% for non-EU)
- Limited deductions available
- Different filing requirements
Key Spanish Taxes
Income Tax (IRPF)
The main tax for individuals with Spanish tax residency:
- Progressive rates: 19% to 47% depending on income level
- Regional variations: Each autonomous community sets additional rates
- Filing deadline: April 6 - June 30 for previous year
Wealth Tax (Impuesto sobre el Patrimonio)
- Applies to worldwide assets if tax resident
- €700,000 general exemption
- Rates from 0.2% to 3.5%
- Some regions have additional exemptions
Property Taxes
- IBI (Property Tax): Annual municipal tax on property ownership
- Transfer Tax (ITP): 8-10% on second-hand property purchases
- Capital Gains Tax: On property sales, varies by holding period
Important Tax Deadlines
Annual Calendar
- January 31: Wealth tax declaration deadline
- April 6 - June 30: Income tax filing period
- July 1 - November 30: Regional income tax payments
- December 31: Year-end for tax planning
Common Deductions and Allowances
Personal Allowances
- General minimum: €5,550 per year
- Age 65+: Additional €1,150
- Age 75+: Additional €1,400
- Disability: Various additional allowances
Deductible Expenses
- Mortgage interest on primary residence
- Professional expenses
- Pension contributions
- Charitable donations
- Educational expenses
Double Taxation Treaties
Spain has double taxation agreements with over 100 countries to prevent paying tax twice on the same income. Key benefits:
- Reduction or elimination of withholding taxes
- Credit for taxes paid in other countries
- Specific rules for pensions, employment, and business income
Getting Professional Help
When to Hire a Tax Advisor
- Complex international income sources
- Property investments
- Business ownership
- First year of Spanish tax residency
⚠️ Important Reminders
- Keep detailed records of all income and expenses
- File declarations even if no tax is owed
- Consider tax implications before making major financial decisions
- Stay updated on tax law changes