What Do Changes to Andalusia’s Wealth Tax Mean for Homeowners?
What Do Changes to Andalusia’s Wealth Tax Mean for Homeowners? Both resident and non-resident property owners in Andalusia are now exempt from paying Spain’s wealth tax, resulting in an average saving of €5,000 (US$4,933) per household Every week, Mansion Global poses a tax question to real estate tax attorneys. Here is this week’s question. Q: I’m […]
Is it possible to buy or sell Spanish property from the UK and in pounds?
Is it possible to buy or sell Spanish property from the UK and in pounds?. You might be under the impression that you can only buy Spanish property in Spain and euros. But as we explain in this article, it’s perfectly possible to carry out the transaction in the UK, in pounds and using a […]
How do you know if you’re a tax resident in Spain (or not)?
How do you know if you’re a tax resident in Spain (or not)? In today’s mobile world, many people spend time in Spain and other countries during the year. But does this make you resident for tax purposes in Spain or are you fiscally resident elsewhere? This guide explains how you know if you’re a […]
Four ways to save on property tax in Spain
Four ways to save on property tax in Spain. Property tax in Spain is notoriously high, both on purchase and during ownership. But, what if it were possible to reduce that bill? And if so, how would you go about it? In this article, we address these questions. We also look at reducing your liability […]
10 compelling reasons to buy in Sotogrande
10 compelling reasons to buy in Sotogrande. Buying a new home can be one of the most significant decisions you’ll ever make, but it doesn’t need to be the most difficult. If you are looking for a holiday home, investment or permanent residence, in Southern Spain’s Costa del Sol you´ll find apartments, townhouses and villas, […]
6 myths about Spanish wills debunked
6 myths about Spanish wills debunked. As with many legal matters, Spanish wills come with their fair share of myths. At Del Canto Chambers, we’re more than used to clients’ worries about safeguarding their Spanish assets for their chosen heirs. And more often than not, this anxiety is caused by misconceptions about the law in […]
Let your lawyer handle your financial and property affairs
Let your lawyer handle your financial and property affairs. A Power of Attorney will often be the most practical way of enabling a Spanish lawyer to undertake tasks and sign documents on behalf of their clients so that they do not have the expense and the inconvenience of having to attend in person to sign […]
The new Spanish Visa for UK professionals investors and “digital nomads”
The new Spanish Visa for UK professionals, investors and “digital nomads”. UK nationals have been struggling during the last two years to get adequate visas to come to Spain as the existing legislation, Immigration Act 4/2000 and Golden Visa 14/2013, do not address the post Brexit (and post Covid19) scenarios. The existing Golden Visa, Non […]
Brits living in Spain go up by 9.5% in 2 years, but should you become tax resident in Spain?
Brits living in Spain go up by 9.5% in 2 years. In 2021, British nationals opting for Spanish residency increased by 4.4%, bringing the total number to less than 1% shy of its record in 2013. Despite the challenges of Brexit, the number of British becoming residents in Spain has increased by 9.5% since 2019. […]
The advantages of buying and investing in Galicia and inland Spain
Buying and investing in Galicia and inland Spain. Galicia, in north-western Spain, is not as well-known as some other regions but for those who enjoy the attractive countryside with the combination of coast, mountains, rivers and picturesque villages along with cooler temperatures, it is an excellent choice. It is cheaper than more popular areas of […]
Income Tax arrangements for internationally mobile employees
Income Tax arrangements for internationally mobile employees. With a continuing increase in individuals working overseas temporarily, more employers are having to deal with the income tax situation for these mobile employees. While many countries have a double taxation agreement (DTA) in place with the UK, meaning a tax refund can be claimed where tax has […]
Non fungible tokens (NFTs) explained
Non fungible tokens (NFTs) explained. Non-fungible tokens, or NFTs, are gaining in popularity. We take a look at exactly what they are and how they work. What is an NFT? The term non-fungible refers to the fact that NFTs are unique and not interchangeable. As tokens, they show ownership of unique items such as art, […]
Inheritance Tax and estate planning for overseas buyers of UK residential property
Inheritance Tax and estate planning. UK real estate is always popular with overseas buyers, and investment continues to be made despite tax reforms over recent years. Before finalising a purchase, consideration needs to be given as to how the property will be owned to ensure it is as tax efficient as possible in respect of […]
Legal tips for foreigners wishing to move to Spain and get their residency
Legal tips for foreigners. Year after year, thousands of foreigners from all around the world decide to start their new life in Spain. And there is enough reason for that: a country that offers ideal weather conditions all the year around, with a delicious gastronomy, tons of expats communities and friendly people who make you […]
Del Canto Chambers expands with new office in Mallorca
Del Canto Chambers expands with new office en Mallorca. Del Canto Chambers is opening a new office in Palma, Mallorca, as the London-based barrister chambers expands its work across the UK and Spain in response to increasing demand for advice on the opportunities available in the Balearic Islands. Covid-19-related restrictions encouraged many to re-think their […]
WEBINAR. Returning to the office and how to consciously update your business dress code for autumn/winter
Update your business dress code for autumn/winter. As the coronavirus restrictions in both the UK and Spain continue to be eased, have you returned to working from the office, or are you intending to do so? A Q&A and discussion will follow Adriana’s talk, during which participants will be encouraged to share their opinions and ideas. Although the […]
Where should I retire? – Spain, one of the top 10 places to retire
Spain, one of the top 10 places to retire. International Living ranking offers a growing selection of outstanding destinations where to live a healthier and happier life, and spend a lot less money. According to the International Living portal (*) Spain has been selected as one of the Top 10 World Best places to Retire […]
International Comparative Legal Guide – Competition Litigation 2022
International Comparative Legal Guide – Competition Litigation 2022. Our colleague Josep Galvez has authored the Spanish chapter in the latest edition of the 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗟𝗲𝗴𝗮𝗹 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗱𝗲 – 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗲𝘁𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗟𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗴𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟮. The Guide covers common issues in competition litigation across a number of jurisdictions, as well as features further insight into remedies, evidence, timing, settlement, costs, appeal and […]
Del Canto Chambers Galicia is born
Del Canto Chambers Galicia is born. Six reasons to open an international law and tax office in northwestern Spain Del Canto Chambers opens a new office in Galicia. The reasons? Perhaps it is its cities on the sea and surrounded by forests or perhaps the fact that Galicia has one of the best ways of […]
Right to one´s image in the digital age
Right to one´s image in digital age. Last month we all woke up reading that Spencer Elden, the man who was photographed as a baby on the album cover for Nirvana’s Nevermind, is suing the band. The news ignited the debate about privacy and lawful use of children’s images as today, with the increase of […]
Making a will in Spain (II)
Making a will in Spain (II). In the previous post about wills and inheritance in Spain, we discussed how the difference between the United Kingdom and the European Union context was present even before Brexit. EU legislation is quite clear on the succession regimes that should be applied: they are based on residency unless the […]
Using a family investment company to pass on wealth
Using a family investment company to pass on wealth. For families looking for a secure and tax-efficient way to manage and pass on wealth, a family investment company may offer some distinct advantages. Traditionally in anglo saxon jurisdictions, trusts have often been used to protect wealth and shelter assets from Inheritance Tax liability. However, over […]
Intellectual Property: tax issues in creating, holding and disposing of IP
Intellectual Property: tax issues in creating, holding and disposing of IP. Dealing with the tax situation for your intellectual property (IP) can be complicated. Governments often apply tax benefits to IP to encourage development and innovation. With the creation and ownership of IP increasing faster than ever, it is worth understanding the benefits available and […]
Making a will in Spain (I)
Making a will in Spain (I). Getting ready for the British exit of the European Union involves many administrative processes for individuals and companies, which are rapidly coming to terms with what will be day-to-day life from 2021. Firms like Del Canto are busy helping clients update anything from their citizenship status, to their tax […]
Gibraltar tax agreement with Spain
Gibraltar tax agreement with Spain. What does the tax agreement between Spain and Gibraltar mean for you? Gibraltar is not just a rock. The city is a special place, with a very interesting history that reflects the constant flux of relationships between Spain and the UK. The overseas territory has a thriving economy, based on […]
COVID-19 and the franchise landscape
COVID-19 and the franchise landscape. Spain is one of Europe’s leading consumer markets, partly aided by its role as the second most popular tourist destination in the world. Franchisors have found particular niches in facilitating their expansion in the key coastal areas and the capitals. Today, Barcelona and Madrid are global brands in themselves, where […]
The Lugano Convention: a matter of genuine concern for the UK
The Lugano Convention: a matter of genuine concern for the UK. “As a consequence of leaving the EU, the UK lost its membership of the Lugano Convention, a relevant international treaty between the EU with other European states that form the European Free Trade Association, including Switzerland, Norway, and Iceland. Consequently, in April 2020, the […]
European Court of Justice new ruling on mortgage claims
European Court of Justice new ruling on mortgage claims. There are many good things to be said about Spain, from its weather to its fantastic food and welcoming people. Sadly, its banking system and its supervisors are still in need of an update. In the decade since the financial crisis, European courts have continuously corrected […]
Form 720, an illegal form?
Form 720, an illegal form?. The Supreme Court of Justice rules in favor of a taxpayer with a property abroad and condemns to the Spanish Tax Office for the sanctions of Form 720 Relocating to Spain for business or pleasure is a very appealing prospect for many; however, it comes with obligations. One of the […]
Spanish tax investigation
Spanish tax investigation. Taxes are just a fact of life, wherever you live. In fact, sometimes, the luckier you have been in life, the more worried about taxes you must be. Residency, marriage, family, profession… Everything seems to impact how much we pay, and this can generate anxiety. Tax authorities sometimes seem like a black […]
An HMRC nudge letter regarding your Spanish assets?
An HMRC nudge letter regarding your Spanish assets?. HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) receives details of taxpayers with overseas income or gains under the Common Reporting Standard, that the UK has entered into along with other jurisdictions. Under the CRS and EU Directive, financial institutions in participating jurisdictions will report the full name and address, […]
Taxation of spanish residence
Taxation of spanish residence. Sun, food, chances for relaxation, affordability… All of these and even more are invaluable elements that contribute to an accomplished life are present in Spain. Many Spaniards take them from granted, actually. But, for the growing number of expats arriving from all over the world, these are the country’s key attractions. […]
Starting a business in Spain
Starting a business in Spain. Thanks to its strategic position between Europe, Africa and Latin America, Spain has grown as an economic node of great importance in sectors like transportation, hospitality and technology. Its workforce, while cheaper than in many other European countries, has an excellent education. For these and other reasons, foreign businesspeople often […]
Do Brits who overstay in EU post-Brexit face deportation?
Leon Fernando Del Canto has written an article in International Adviser looking at whether Brits who overstay in EU post-Brexit will face deportation. British tourists and second-home owners cannot exceed the 90-day limit outside of the UK post-Brexit, but Spain has dismissed reports that those breaking the law will be immediately deported. Although the latest […]
Copyright implications of Crypto Art, smart contracts, and Non-Fungible Tokens (NFT) for the independent creator
Copyright implications of Crypto Art, smart contracts, and Non-Fungible Tokens (NFT) for the independent creator Copyright will not disappear despite the apocalyptic messages sent by so many techies, failing to understand a basic concept: creators and artists deserve a fair pay for their works. It is true that we fall short to recognise the social […]
British expats living in Spain: are their rights at stake?
British expats living in Spain: are their rights at stake?. Hundreds of thousands of British expats living in Spain face increasingly unfavorable tax burdens and discrimination over their pre-Brexit immigration status. Before the UK’s departure from the EU, most British citizens living in Spain failed to register their residence and have been flying under the […]
Setting up a business in the UK
Setting up a business in the UK. The UK has long been one of the best places in the world for setting up a business. Company formation and registration are relatively cheap and easy and the UK’s tax structure means in the early, less-productive years a business will not be heavily taxed. It is important […]
Taxation of Spanish Property
Taxation of Spanish Property. One of the most common concerns for British and other expat residents in Spain is their property taxes. How many taxes are there? When are they applied? How much and what are the timings for taking care of them? Taking care of these duties is very important, particularly if your house […]
Moving to Spain from the UK in 2021
Moving to Spain from the UK in 2021. Spain has long been a favourite destination for Britons seeking a life abroad with around 360,000 registered as permanent residents. Following Britain’s exit from the EU, the rules for admission have changed, and those looking to move to the sun will need to ensure they have the […]
Owning property with a company in Spain (II)
Owning Spanish property via an international company. Previously, we have the reviewed the history of property ownership through companies in Spain. The structure emerged in the last decades of the past century as an advantageous method for the country to attract foreign investors; and for these investors to avoid excessive taxes. However, in recent years, […]
What is copyright? UK copyright policy
What is a Copyright? UK copyright policy. Copyright can be simplified down to the legal right that an owner has over their piece of work, giving creators the ability to sell, rent, licence, copy and share it to a third party, and providing protection to prevent others from using their work without their permission. Copyright […]
Owning property with a company in Spain
Owning property with a company in Spain: a tax time-bomb. Owning Spanish property via an international company could be a tax time-bomb waiting to explode. Spain has for decades been a destination for countless expats across the world; some areas along its beautiful coast resemble British colonies, due to the concentration of UK citizens living […]
Working as self employed in Spain
Working as self employed in Spain. Spain has become an attractive country to become a freelancer, as it offers nice weather, vibrant cities and access to the European market for professionals from all sectors. As a result, in the past years, certain areas in Madrid, Barcelona and other cities have become almost micro-Silicon Valleys of […]
Taxation of british pensioners in Spain
Taxation of british pensioners in Spain: British citizens applying for pensions while living in Spain: before and after Brexit implementation time. It is hard to trivialise the issue of pensions for any British citizen interested in relocating to Spain. Besides the obvious attractions, such as a nicer climate and beautiful environments, the relatively lower costs […]
Non-Fungible Tokens: The digital purchasing platform taking the virtual world by storm
Non-Fungible Tokens, or NFT’s for short, have been floating around the news and social media for the past few years, but only in the past year have they really taken the world by storm. They first arrived in 2015 and have since gained popularity all over the globe. An NFT is a piece of data […]
Understanding trademarks: 5 trademark FAQs
A trademark is a mean to identify the goods or services of a particular organisation. By registering a trademark, you can safeguard your intellectual property by law. Protecting your brand is vital, as misuse can be damaging to your company’s reputation. Registering a trademark and defending it against violations means you can create trust on […]
Ibiza, the musical island
Ibiza is widely known as a hedonistic destination for vacations; even to live there if you’re savings allow you to so. The island is synonimous with a desirable lifestyle based on calmness, healthy food, beautiful sunsets… And, of course, the music. Ibiza is a musical island. The musical island. And not only now, after the […]
The rise of the family office
A family office is a flexible, convenient way to control investment, administer family affairs and deal with estate and tax planning. It is not a luxury for any family concerned with adequate succession planning and assets management. A single-family office deals with the affairs of just one family, while a multiple family office manages the […]
The benefits of relocating to Ibiza
Del Canto Chambers has written an article in top wealth management publication, Wealth Briefing, explaining how the pandemic has prompted high net worth individuals to consider their options. Del Canto Chambers explains too the advantages of settling in Ibiza. The UK’s separation from the EU combined with the pandemic and subsequent lockdowns have given reason […]
Manage and grow your firm in the new UK-EU relationship (video)
Last January 28th our Head of Chambers, León Fernando del Canto, joined the panel discussion in Clio’s webinar: How to Manage and Grow Your Firm in the New UK-EU Relationship. Some questions they’ve discussed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KUBHoPTVptY&t=11s León Fernando Del Canto leads Del Canto Chambers International Tax & Legal team. Fernando is a tax qualified English Barrister […]
Más allá del Brexit Webinar. Business y relaciones comerciales.
Business y relaciones comerciales entre España y el Reino Unido El Brexit es ya una realidad. Es por eso que, desde nuestras oficinas en Londres, vamos a desgranar, en “Más allá del Brexit, webinar”, algunas de las claves sobre las relaciones comerciales y los negocios en la nueva relación bilateral entre el Reino Unido y […]
The value of music publishing catalogues
It has been a struggle for the music industry to adapt to the online world. By the year 2000 it was already clear sales were going down and the CD was becoming obsolete. People were sharing files illegally and the boom of Napster was a real threat for artists who were already grappling with the […]
Ibiza for Expatriates: what you need to know if you own a house, boat or investment in Ibiza
Ibiza for expats Do you think of Ibiza as merely a party island? You’d be so wrong. Ibiza is the home to thousands of expatriates who value its warm climate, rich cultural heritage and peaceful environment which allows them to ‘disconnect’ from their busy lives. So here are a few reasons why you should consider […]
Living in Ibiza and paying the right taxes
Living in Ibiza and paying the right taxes. Property Taxes and Legal issues in Ibiza – non-Spanish residents living in The Balearics Islands need to be aware of Spanish legal and tax considerations that could affect the value of their homes, the wealth in their Spanish estates and their ongoing tax liabilities. Local Ibiza Property […]
How to relocate your business to Spain
How to relocate your business to SpainWhile businesses face challenging times on a global scale, UK investors are viewing Spain as one of the more attractive markets in Europe in which to be based post a Covid-19 economic slump. With concerns over a second lockdown rife, combined with the realisation that businesses can operate remotely […]
Last call for buyers of off-plan properties in Spain
If you have purchased an off-plan property in Spain before the 1st of January of 2016, this might be your last chance to claim back your deposit and other amounts paid on not delivered Real Estate developments. Deadline for claiming back off-plan property deposits The 7th of October of 2020 will be the 5th anniversary […]
Practical questions for UK citizens after Brexit in Spain
Practical questions for UK citizens after Brexit in Spain. During the transitional period of departure of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland from the European Union – hereinafter the United Kingdom – ending on the 31st December 2020, UK citizens residing in Spain must obtain a “new” documentation in order to retain their […]
