Shakira Acquitted of Tax Fraud After Eight-year Legal Battle in Spain

After nearly a decade of legal scrutiny in Spain, Colombian pop star Shakira has been formally acquitted of tax fraud charges, in a ruling that also requires Spanish authorities to reimburse her millions in fines and penalties.

The judgment, issued by Spain’s High Court, concluded that prosecutors failed to prove that Shakira met the threshold for Spanish tax residency in 2011, a key factor in determining whether she was legally required to pay income tax in the country.

Residency Dispute


The central question was whether Shakira spent more than 183 days in Spain in 2011, which would classify her as a tax resident under Spanish law. The court found that she spent approximately 163 days in the country that year, below the legal threshold, and therefore could not be considered a resident for tax purposes.

Authorities also failed to establish that her main financial or professional base was in Spain during that period. As a result, the court ruled that the tax assessments and penalties imposed were not legally justified.

Millions in Fines to be Returned


The ruling overturns fines and penalties amounting to approximately €55 million (around $64–70 million), including interest, which Spanish tax authorities must now repay to the singer.

The decision effectively clears Shakira of wrongdoing in the 2011 case and orders a full reimbursement of sums previously collected.

In a statement to AFP, Shakira said: “Every step of the process was leaked, distorted, and amplified, using my name and public image to send a threatening message to other taxpayers.”

However, Spanish tax authorities have indicated they may appeal the ruling to the Supreme Court, meaning the final outcome could still be delayed.


The acquittal applies only to the 2011 tax year and does not affect a separate case involving income from 2012 to 2014.

In that earlier case, Shakira reached a settlement in 2023 with Spanish prosecutors, agreeing to pay fines and accept a suspended sentence to avoid trial. That agreement remains legally separate and unaffected by the latest ruling.