Shakira Acquitted in Spanish Tax Case, Awarded Over €55 Million Refund

Colombian singer Shakira has been acquitted of tax fraud charges by Spain's High Court, the Audiencia Nacional, concluding a legal battle that lasted nearly five years. The court ruled that tax authorities failed to prove she met the 183-day residency requirement in Spain for the year 2011, which is the minimum period to be classified as a tax resident. As a result, the Spanish Treasury has been ordered to refund Shakira between €55 million and €60 million, which includes previously paid taxes and interest, equivalent to over £50 million or $64 million. This decision overturns allegations that she improperly collected taxes during the period in question.