The Spanish government first accused global superstar Shakira of tax fraud in 2018 for allegedly failing to pay taxes between 2012 and 2014. At the time of the allegations, Spanish prosecutors sought an eight-year sentence and fines of approximately €23 million.
The singer has maintained that her tax payments are current. Her defense rejected a deal from Spain’s prosecutors in 2022 and sent an appeal. This appeal failed, causing the case to go to trial. The date for this hearing still hasn’t been set.
Shakira was officially living in the Bahamas during 2012-2014, being examined, and her team states that she’s settled her debts. According to Spanish authorities, the singer allegedly lived in Spain throughout this period and only left the country in short stints.
But there’s more.
Spanish prosecutors are now alleging that Shakira has engaged in a second round of financial misconduct, this time to the tune of €6.7 million ($7.1 million). According to NBC, Spain’s Tax Agency accuses the singer of not paying taxes on all earnings and personal assets in 2018.
NBC reports that Shakira hadn’t received any notice when this news was published. Shakira’s spokesperson said, “She must be notified personally at her new address, in strict accordance with the provisions of the Law.”
Shakira is one of the many stars Spain has been taking a closer look at. Others include Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. In the meantime, we’re monitoring these cases and will keep you updated.