How the DGT's position has evolved
Current position
For non-monetary contributions, the receiving entity must be a resident in Spain or have a permanent establishment, and the contributor must maintain at least 5% of the receiver's equity. In the exchange of securities, the acquirer must obtain the majority of voting rights and comply with the requirements of article 80 of the Law on Corporate Income Tax (LIS). Both operations require valid economic reasons and cannot have the main objective of tax fraud or evasion. Regarding VAT (IVA), the transfer of an autonomous economic unit with an organizational structure of material and human factors is not subject to the tax.
The DGT's position remains constant in the application of special business reorganization regimes, always requiring the concurrence of residency requirements, participation percentages, and the absence of purely tax-driven purposes. No changes have been observed in the substantive requirements for non-monetary contributions or the exchange of securities since 2020. The latest ruling introduces a criterion regarding the non-subjectivity to VAT (IVA) in the transfer of autonomous economic units.
Turning points
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Introduces the criterion that the transfer of elements constitutes an autonomous economic unit not subject to VAT (IVA) if it includes an organizational structure of material and human factors.
Analysis based on 36 of 41 rulings with a stated position. Updated 6 August 2026.