Articles

Verifactu: The Next Step in Spain’s Fiscal Digitalisation

In Spain’s ever-evolving administrative landscape, few initiatives combine digital transformation and regulatory rigour as effectively as Verifactu. Scheduled to come into force in 2026, this system represents a decisive step towards transparency — and a fundamental shift in how businesses and the self-employed issue invoices and report to the tax authorities. Verifactu: What It Is … Read more

Shell Companies and why you cannot form a Spanish company working only from home with a computer

In recent years, many freelancers and self-employed professionals in Spain have created companies to structure their business activities. While this is completely legal when done properly, some of these companies are what are known as shell companies, businesses that exist mainly on paper, without real employees, physical offices, or real economic activity. Their main purpose … Read more

Income Tax 2024 Season: When payments run fast and refunds lag behind

On June 30, 2025, the Spanish Tax Agency (Agencia Tributaria) officially executed the first installment collection of the Impuesto sobre la Renta de las Personas Físicas (IRPF) for the 2024 fiscal year. As every year, the date marked a moment of reckoning: for some, a withdrawal; for others, a windfall. Taxpayers who opted for the … Read more

Should I Pay Compensatory Maintenance as a Lump Sum?

If you are separating from your spouse and will be required to pay compensatory maintenance, it is generally more advantageous to do so in the form of periodic payments rather than a single lump sum. Below, we explain the tax implications under Spanish law and why a phased payment approach may prove more beneficial. Compensatory … Read more

Spence Clarke Celebrates 40 Years of Excellence in Marbella

On Friday 19 September, Spence Clarke marked its 40th anniversary with a spectacular celebration at the elegant Garum Restaurant, located on the Paseo Marítimo in Marbella. Guests were immediately captivated by a striking performer on stilts, adorned with mirrors, who greeted everyone at the entrance with poise and grace, setting the tone for an unforgettable … Read more

Can the Spanish tax office take funds from your bank account without your consent?

One of the most frequent concerns among foreign residents in Spain is the belief that the Spanish tax office can empty their bank account without prior notice. While the tax authorities do have the power to freeze funds (embargo) in certain circumstances, this is never an automatic or arbitrary process. Although Hacienda is sometimes viewed … Read more

Doing Business Abroad from Spain? What You Need to Know About VAT

Introduction Spanish businesses, whether self-employed professionals (autónomos) or companies, increasingly operate in international markets. A common question arises: when a Spanish business provides services or goods to a business client located outside Spain, how should VAT be applied? This article provides a clear overview of the VAT rules for B2B cross-border transactions, distinguishing between EU … Read more

Grant for NEW Self-Employed Professionals in Andalucia: Receive Up to 5.500€

The Line 2 grant programme for self-employed professionals in Andalucia, which started in 2023, has been renewed until the 30 June 2026. The grant is designed to support self-employed individuals in developing their economic and professional activities, providing a financial boost that can make a significant difference when starting or consolidating a business project. This … Read more