A court in Spain has ordered the country’s tax authority to refund €55 million (£48 million) to internationally renowned Colombian singer Shakira, marking a significant development in one of the country’s most closely followed celebrity tax disputes.

The decision comes after years of legal battles between the artist and Spanish tax officials over allegations related to unpaid taxes during the period when Shakira lived in Spain with former football star Gerard Piqué. Authorities had claimed that the singer spent enough time in Spain to qualify as an official tax resident and therefore owed millions of euros in taxes on her global income.

Spanish prosecutors previously accused Shakira of failing to pay taxes between 2012 and 2014, arguing that she lived in Spain for more than the legally permitted period required for taxation. According to Spanish law, a person who spends more than 183 days per year in the country can be considered a tax resident.

Shakira consistently denied intentional wrongdoing and argued that she was not officially residing full-time in Spain during part of the disputed period. Her legal team maintained that the money collected by tax authorities had been improperly calculated and unfairly demanded.

The latest court ruling reportedly concluded that a large portion of the funds collected from the singer should be returned, representing a major legal and financial victory for the artist. The decision is expected to intensify public debate in Spain over the country’s handling of high-profile tax investigations involving celebrities, athletes, and wealthy public figures.

The case attracted international attention because Shakira is one of the most successful Latin music artists in the world, known for global hits and a career spanning decades. The dispute also highlighted broader tensions between governments seeking to combat tax evasion and celebrities who often have residences, businesses, and financial interests in multiple countries.

Following the ruling, supporters of the singer celebrated the decision on social media, viewing it as proof that she had been treated unfairly during the investigation. Others argue that tax authorities must continue enforcing financial transparency equally for all citizens, regardless of fame or status.

Legal experts say the ruling could influence future tax-related cases involving international celebrities living in Spain. Meanwhile, the Spanish tax authority may still consider additional legal options depending on the final interpretation of the court’s decision.

The case remains one of the most publicized financial disputes involving a global entertainment figure in recent years, reflecting the growing scrutiny faced by celebrities over international taxation and residency laws.