🇪🇸 Living in Spain as an Expat? Here’s What You Need to Know About Taxes
As an expat living in Spain, you’re likely subject to a wide range of tax rules and filing requirements — and these depend on whether you’re a tax resident, your income sources, and your global assets.
In this guide, we’ll break down:
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Whether you’re a tax resident
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What taxes you owe
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How to reduce your burden legally
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The benefits of the Beckham Law
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How to file — and when to get help
🧭 Are You a Tax Resident in Spain?
You are considered a Spanish tax resident if you meet any of the following:
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Spend more than 183 days per year in Spain
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Have your main economic interests based in Spain
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Your spouse or minor children live in Spain
If you’re a tax resident, you must report worldwide income, not just income from Spain.
💰 What Taxes Do Expats in Spain Pay?
| Tax Type | Applies To |
|---|---|
| IRPF (Income Tax) | Salaries, self-employment, pensions, dividends, etc. |
| Wealth Tax | Worldwide assets (above exemption thresholds) |
| Capital Gains Tax | Sale of property or investments |
| Inheritance & Gift Tax | If you receive assets from someone in Spain |
| Modelo 720 | Declaration of foreign assets over €50,000 |
| Social Security | If employed or self-employed in Spain |
🧾 Spanish Income Tax Rates for Residents (IRPF)
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Progressive rates from 19% to 47%
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Applies to all worldwide income
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Must be filed annually (typically between April and June)
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Includes pensions, dividends, rental income, freelance income, etc.
🧑💼 Can Expats Reduce Their Taxes in Spain?
Yes — several legal strategies include:
✅ Beckham Law
Pay only 24% on Spanish income and exempt foreign income for up to 6 years.
✅ Double Tax Treaties
Avoid paying tax twice on the same income (Spain has treaties with 90+ countries).
✅ Tax Deductions
Family deductions, home office expenses (for autónomos), pension contributions.
We help assess your situation and apply the right options to reduce your total burden.
📄 Key Filing Obligations for Expats
| Form/Tax | Who Must File | Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Modelo 100 (IRPF) | Tax residents | April–June annually |
| Modelo 720 | Residents with foreign assets > €50K | March 31 |
| Modelo 714 (Wealth Tax) | HNWI with assets over threshold | June (with IRPF) |
| Beckham Law (149/151) | Eligible new residents | Within 6 months of job start |
| Social Security | Employees or self-employed | Monthly |
⚖️ Why Expats Should Hire a Tax Lawyer
Spanish tax law changes frequently and can involve:
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Multiple agencies (Agencia Tributaria, Seguridad Social, local ayuntamientos)
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Foreign income complications
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Fines for late or incorrect filings
Our lawyers:
✅ File all returns on your behalf
✅ Ensure you meet every deadline
✅ Apply for exemptions (Beckham Law, treaties, deductions)
✅ Translate and explain all paperwork
✅ Represent you in case of audits
🗣️ Bilingual Legal Support
All our services are available in fluent English and Spanish. No miscommunications, no guesswork — just clear guidance for expats living in Spain.
📞 Talk to a Tax Lawyer for Expats in Spain
Don’t risk mistakes or overpaying. Whether you’re a new arrival or long-term resident, we’ll help you stay compliant — and pay only what’s required.
👉 Book a consultation today with a bilingual Spanish tax lawyer for expats.