Update On Spanish Wealth Tax Applicable to Boatowners

Created by doina. Last modified on 2006-05-28 16:43:22
Contributors:
Topic: European Union
Countries: Spain

There has been much confusion in recent months about taxes which appear to have been levied on cruising boats making a prolonged stay in Spain. All boats are liable for port or harbour dues. These are known as G-5, T-5 or T-0 etc. For short stays they are normally included in the marina fees. For longer stays, it would be wise to check if this is still so, as there are significant reductions for paying these dues in advance. Being presented with the bill at the end of your stay could come as quite a shock! These dues are NOT a ‘wealth tax’, and they are unevenly applied.

A non-resident, that is, a person (not a boat) spending less than 183 days in Spain in any one year, is not liable for any tax on the value of a boat (‘The Wealth Tax’) as long as that person is a fully paid up member of their home country. They are liable for the tax on a marina berth or a shore-based property, though.

If spending more than 183 days in Spain in any one year, that person is classed as a Resident and is liable to all Spanish taxes and comes under their regulations regarding certification, seaworthiness, equipment levels etc. as well as the wealth tax on the value of the boat and the 12% matriculation charge for importing it. Failure to comply with these requirements can have serious consequences.

Val Ellis, Noonsite