The Spanish Government has been given a two-month ultimatum by the EU

“The Spanish Government has been given a two-month ultimatum by the EU to amend its law to ensure foreign residents are treated the same as Spaniards when it comes to capital gains tax (CGT). Currently, when Spaniards re-invest the proceeds of the sale of their main home into their next home they pay no CGT , however there are cases of expats in the same situation being charged CGT.

While this discrimination goes against the EU treaty, some cases may not be as cut and dry as others. For example, many resident expats may not show up on the Spanish tax authorities’ radar for whatever reason, or they may not officially be registered as resident. While any evidence of discrimination needs to be eradicated, it’s a two-way thing so expats in Spain should also do their part, becoming a resident and registering with the Spanish tax office as and when required.”

Richard Way, Editor, Overseas Guides Company (OGC) www.OverseasGuidesCompany.com