Spain’s High Court has acquitted Colombian pop superstar Shakira of tax fraud related to the 2011 fiscal year, overturning a €55 million ($64 million) fine previously imposed by Spanish tax authorities. The court ruled that officials failed to prove the singer spent more than 183 days in Spain during 2011, the threshold required under Spanish law to classify an individual as a tax resident. As a result, the court ordered Spain’s Treasury to reimburse Shakira more than €60 million ($70 million), including interest.
The case stemmed from allegations that Shakira’s relationship with former Gerard Piqué and her professional activities in Spain established her tax residency in the country. However, the High Court determined that the penalties were based on an unproven assumption regarding her residence status. Despite the ruling, Spain’s tax agency has announced plans to appeal the decision before the Supreme Court, meaning no reimbursement will be made until a final judgment is reached.
Shakira’s legal team welcomed the verdict, describing it as the end of an eight-year legal battle that exposed shortcomings in administrative procedures. In a statement, the singer expressed hope that the ruling would set a precedent for individuals who feel unfairly treated by tax authorities. The decision is separate from a 2023 agreement in which Shakira admitted to failing to pay €14.5 million in income tax between 2012 and 2014, accepting a fine of more than €7.3 million to avoid a trial in Barcelona.
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