A Spanish court has acquitted pop star Shakira of tax fraud and ordered the government to return more than 55 million euros ($64 million) in fines and interest that were wrongly imposed, according to a court document seen Monday by The Associated Press.
Court Ruling Details
The Madrid-based court ruled that Spanish tax authorities failed to prove that Shakira was a resident of Spain for the 2011 tax year. For an individual to be considered a tax resident in Spain, they must spend more than 183 days in the country. The court noted that authorities could only demonstrate that the Colombian superstar lived in Spain for a total of 163 days that year.
Background of Tax Dispute
The decision marks the end of years of tax troubles for Shakira in Spain. Over the past decade, Spanish tax authorities have intensified scrutiny on high-profile individuals, including soccer stars such as Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. Those players were found guilty of tax evasion but avoided prison sentences due to a legal provision allowing judges to waive incarceration for first-time offenders facing sentences under two years.
Shakira's acquittal underscores the importance of precise residency documentation in tax disputes. The court's order to refund the substantial fines and interest represents a significant victory for the singer.
