The dream has come true: you own a property under the Spanish sun. Enjoy life, a glass of wine on the terrace, away from the hustle and bustle - just as you imagined.
Yet that Spanish dream also involves a piece of reality: managing administrative and tax obligations that are different from those in Belgium or the Netherlands. And that is where the tax representative in pictures.
Not always mandatory, but highly recommended
For EU residents, it is not (or no longer) required by law to appoint a tax representative in Spain. Yet in practice, it is almost always recommended - and sometimes even requires.
So ask various notaries, banks and local government administrations still to appoint a tax representative, especially when opening a tax file, paying taxes or completing a notarial deed.
Why this is so important? Because your tax representative in Spain your official point of contact becomes in government.
One official address for all government communications
When you appoint our office as your tax representative, our office becomes the official correspondence address for your Spanish property. That means you never miss an important letter because you are not on site.
And that can make a big difference. Think about:
- Municipal taxes (IBI): the annual assessment on your property. If it is not paid on time, penalties and interest automatically follow. We receive the assessment, notify you and arrange payment.
- Traffic fines (DGT): Do you have a Spanish number plate? Then any fine will be sent to your Spanish address. Thanks to your representative, you will know immediately and avoid extra costs.
- Local taxes and waste tax: these are also forwarded directly.
- Official notices: notices of cadastral revisions, requests for information or other official documents arrive safely to someone who knows what to do with them.
In other words, as representatives, we make sure nothing slips through the cracks.
Receiving more than mail: proactive follow-up and tax advice
A good tax representative is not limited to receiving letters. He or she also ensures correct and timely filing of your tax returns for non-residents (IRNR), both when you rent out the property and when you don't.
In addition, we follow the changes in Spanish legislation closely and advise you on the optimal approach for your personal situation. That way, you can be sure you will not pay too much - but also not too little.
And just as important: you save time and stress. No complicated forms, no Spanish portals, no deadlines to overlook.
A small cost, a big difference
Appointing a fiscal representative is not an unnecessary luxury. On the contrary: it is an investment in security, comfort and peace of mind.
Even though it is not always mandatory, the practice clearly shows that notaries and administrations often keep asking for a representative. The annual cost is limited, especially compared to the possible consequences of missed payments, penalties or tax misunderstandings.
While you are at home, you know there is someone in Spain to follow up on your case, look after your interests and make sure everything is done correctly. That way, your second stay will remain exactly what it should be: a source of relaxation, not worry.
Do you have any questions about tax representation in Spain? If so, please feel free to contact with us.
