Thinking about owning a car or house in Spain? Whether you have just relocated or are considering moving to Spain, it is important that you know about the policies for taxes in Spain. In the country, the two most important taxes to know about are road tax and property tax. Failure to pay these correctly could result in a fine, so be sure to follow the guidelines below and research both before becoming a car owner or house owner in Spain. Below is a quick explanation on the specifics of these two important types of tax.

Road Taxes in Spain

Road tax is a tax which has to be paid on any motor vehicle (cars, vans, motorcycles, mopeds, buses, lorries, tractor trailers and semi-trailers pulled by other vehicles) before using it on a public road, regardless of category or class. Bicycles do not have to pay this tax.

Who must pay the road tax?

It must be paid by the owner of the vehicle, on a yearly basis, usually at the beginning of each calendar year (January 1^st), either if it is a natural or legal person, as is stated in the Registration Certificate.

Any person, company or organization whose name features on the vehicle registration certificate issued by the Provincial Traffic Headquarters is considered an owner.

Where is the road tax paid?

The road tax is generally paid at the City Council or Town Hall where you live, although the vast majority of City Councils send Letters of Payment to your home, and with these, owners should go to the Bank stated to do a transfer or to make a deposit.

What happens if I do not pay the tax road?

If you do not pay the road tax, you will be notified with the corresponding surcharge. If you continue to fail to pay the tax, the City Council can proceed to seize the amount of money from the owner’s bank account. 

What types of vehicles are exempt from paying the road tax?

Vehicles that are exempt from paying road tax are:

• Vehicles belonging to the government, diplomatic delegations, and those performing tasks of security and defense.
• Buses that are used as public transportation with more than nine seats, and ambulances.
• Tractors, trailers and vehicles with similar characteristics that have the distinction of agrarian primer.
• Also, people with reduced mobility that have the accreditation of disability and are owners of the vehicle, are exempt from paying road tax.

To speak with a Caser representative about Car Insurance, click here. 

Property Taxes in Spain

What is the property tax?

The property tax is a tax that burdens the possession or ownership of property. We understand as a property: houses, plots of land, farms, and elements that have been built on the ground that cannot be moved from the location. 

 Who has to pay the tax?

The tax has to be paid by the owners and holders of the property. An owner has the obligation to pay a fee. Holders of administrative concessions on real estate or under the public services are also required to pay the tax.

To speak with a Caser insurance agent about home insurance, click here. 

If you're considering buying a home in Spain, make sure you pick your dream house. This free guide by Typical Non Spanish offers useful advice for potential home-buyers in Spain: