How the DGT's position has evolved
Current position
For the Inheritance and Gift Tax (ISD) to correspond to an Autonomous Community, the donee must be a resident in Spain and have their habitual residence in said Community at the time of accrual. Habitual residence is determined by the place of stay for the greatest number of days during the previous five years. In cases of non-residents, the applicable regulations depend on whether they reside in the EU/EEA or in third countries.
The DGT maintains a constant position on territorial competence based on residence and the location of assets. A systematic application of the distinction between residents in the EU/EEA and third countries is observed to determine the applicable regulations. No changes in criterion are noted, but rather a repeated application of the levy rules according to the nature of the subject and the territory.
Analysis based on 17 of 17 rulings with a stated position. Updated 25 September 2026.