About Sabrina L. Williams

Although I was born in the UK, I moved to the Canary Islands, Spain at a young age and I haven't looked back. The Canaries is a fantastic place to live, I mean you can do all types of outdoor activities practically all year round because of the great weather. Horses are my poison but the islands are also a superb spot for water sports so they do attract a lot of attention from people around the world. Anyway, enough about that. Back in 2011, I made one of the biggest, scariest yet best decisions I'd ever made and set-up my own business in the middle of a recession. I love what I do as no two days are the same, plus Spanish law keeps me on my toes as it is constantly changing (often without warning!) so there is always something new to learn. As I've branched out in the world of Administrative Consultancy, I decided to create a blog to discuss topics of interest to others in my industry and my clients, share tips and experiences, to see what new ideas people have for improving their businesses and the like so I hope you'll find the time to join me on this venture...

29
Nov 2020
0

COVID-19: Lastest Social Security News for Business Owners

These past few days have been quite busy on the business owner front, whether it has been to

COVID-19: Lastest Social Security News for Business Owners

COVID-19 , , , , , , , , Sabrina L. Williams

These past few days have been quite busy on the business owner front, whether it has been to do with Social Security or financial aid authorized by the Spanish Government, but I’m going to give you insights into what has been going on lately.

As you must be aware, Social Security increased monthly contributions on 30th October 2020 as per Royal Decree 28/2018, 28th December that outlined progressive increases from 2019 to 2021 that incorporate obligatory payment of Professional Accidents, Business Closure (Sole Trader Unemployment) and Professional Training which up until that point were voluntary.

Due to the pandemic, the annual increase, that usually takes place in January, was delayed until October. According to statistics, 77% of sole traders contribute the minimum base rate, which means an increase from 283,30 euros per month to 286,15 euros per month. The increase applied varies from approximately 2,84 euros to 12,12 euros depending on age and applicable base rate.

Tomorrow, Monday 30th November 2020, Social Security will implement two important matters in relation to governmental financial aid:

  1. Those who requested a continuance for sole trader financial aid will receive payment and this will extend until 31st January 2021. Depending on your circumstances, you will either receive 472 euros (50% of the base rate) or 661 euros (70% of the base rate). The number of applicants has almost doubled since the last count. In October 256.000 sole traders requested financial aid, however, it would seem that this has risen to around 500.000 beneficiaries.
  2. Those sole traders who requested deferment on their monthly contribution will begin to pay back their debt to Social Security from Monday 30th November 2020. At the start of the pandemic, the Government permitted this option to certain collectives to temporarily alleviate financial pressures by not charging fees for May, June and July, but now it is time to pay back the piper, so the back payments will be added onto the usual monthly contribution (a minimum of 572,30 euros). Statistics do show though that not many business owners requested this form of financial aid.

Although these measures have proved invaluable to those who have been affected economically by this health crisis, there is an outcry from those who feel that not enough is being done. Please take a read of the following article for more information, https://www.canaryadminservices.com/will-the-pandemic-restart-conversations-about-social-security-contributions/

28
Sep 2020
0

COVID-19: Sole Trader Associations Negotiate with the Government for Continued Financial Aid

As the month of September comes to a close, so does the financial aid some sole traders are

COVID-19: Sole Trader Associations Negotiate with the Government for Continued Financial Aid

COVID-19 , , , , , , , , , , , Sabrina L. Williams

As the month of September comes to a close, so does the financial aid some sole traders are still receiving from the Central Government via their Mutuas. What plans are in place for sole traders after the 30th September?

Well, there has been a lot of chatter over recent weeks from associations that represent sole trader interests about extending financial aid, but nothing definitive has been confirmed so far. This of course is of great concern to affected business owners because we are still nowhere near anything that resembles “normal”. In fact, the situation has not progressed much over the past few months; although lockdown as we experienced it is over, travel is still restricted with many countries implementing quarantine periods after returning from Spain which does not help our tourism dependent islands.

Two of Spain’s most prominent sole trader associations, UPTA and ATA were given a seat at the table to ensure the plight of business owners was not overlooked in government discussions, and they were the main force behind the extension of financial aid that was approved in June. However, this was based on the premise that more than 90% of sole traders would restart their business activity after the state of emergency concluded when experts predicted the pandemic would “wind down” until at least October, giving us a chance to recoup summer losses. As we know, this prediction did not come true. With this in mind, the associations have made the following proposals for the Government to consider:

  1. To extend employees on furlough to 1st April 2021
  2. To extend sole trader special financial aid (the version that is compatible with continuing their business activity) until 1st April 2021
  3. Re-estabishing extraordinary financial aid for those businesses whose activity has been impacted by current limitations or by new outbreaks
  4. To reduce Social Security contributions until 1st April 2021 for those sole traders who have suffered losses equal or superior to 50% in the 3rd Quarter 2020 compared to the 3rd Quarter 2019
  5. To extend ICO line of credit until 1st April 2021 as well as a grace period up to 24 months
  6. To temporarily reduce IVA (mainland Spain equivalent of IGIC) up to 50% for hospitality, tourism and culture sectors plus hairdressers and gyms
  7. To increase deferment of taxes until 1st April 2021
  8. Tax relief for sole traders (personal tax) and companies (corporate tax) who have maintained the same level of employment in 2020
  9. To extend limits of those business that operate under the fixed-tax system (módulos) until 2022
  10. To create a network of business mentors to help prevent the risk of bankruptcy and advisory services geared towards digitalizing businesses

The presidents of both associations are adamant their negotiations with the government will be successful resulting in new lines of financial aid and credit to struggling business owners, deeming it “inconceivable” to question that assistance will be made available during these difficult times, especially since some regions have returned to a lockdown state.

According to Social Security, more than 140.000 sole traders have received financial aid and that more than 154 million euros have been spent in this concept so far.

We can only hope that within the next few days, more information comes to light and definitive agreements are reached to provide business owners with the assistance they need and deserve to keep their businesses afloat. I wish you all the best and as always, stay safe.

If you would like to receive advice for your own business or if you are looking to change asesoría, please contact me for further information to arrange a personalized consult.

21
Aug 2020
0

COVID-19: Special Session of the Canarian Government

As has become customary each week, the Canarian Government held a Special Session yesterday to discuss and agree

COVID-19: Special Session of the Canarian Government

COVID-19 , , , , , , , Sabrina L. Williams

As has become customary each week, the Canarian Government held a Special Session yesterday to discuss and agree on additional measures to combat the COVID-19 health crisis. This has come about because the Public Health Directorate released updated data on the current situation on the islands on the 19th August 2020.

As a result, some of the regulations approved last week have been amended in the following way:

MASS EVENTS. Prior to organizing any type of event where crowds are expected to gather, the health authorities must carry out a risk assessment to determine necessary precautions. The promotors or organizers of these events must include a Contagion Prevention Plan when submitting permission to hole said event. This also means that any event of these characteristics must be approved by the maximum health authority of the Autonomous Region.

HOSPITALITY SECTOR. This sector which includes restaurants, bars, bar-cafeterias, terraces, beach-front premises and similar, must abide by the 1,5 metre safety distance between tables or groups of tables. The same applies to customers seated at the bar. The maximum occupation per table or group of tables is set at TEN PEOPLE, regardless of whether the seating area is interior or exterior. This hasn’t changed from regulations stipulated last week, but they have added that the tables must be arranged in such a way to allow for the 1,5 metre safety distance between customers seated there. The same precautions that were implemented during the de-escalation phase of the health crisis have returned or are being reiterated, namely:

  • Instead of handing menus to customers, these establishments must make use of electronic displays, blackboards (is that politically correct nowadays??!), signs, QR and other similar methods
  • Auxiliary elements such as crockery, glassware, cutlery, table cloths, bread baskets etc., must be stored in closed units and if this is not possible, they must be stored away from passages frequented by customers and employees
  • Self-service items such as servillete holders, olive oil and vinegar containers, salt and pepper shakers etc must be removed and replaced by individual sachets or by request from the client
  • All decorations must be removed from tables
  • Customers may not sit down at a table unless a staff member indicates the table is ready, i.e, it has already been cleaned and desinfected
  • All establishments must be closed by 1am and new customers may not be admitted from midnight

NIGHTCLUBS: These types of venues (discos, dance halls and bars where only drinks are served) must remain closed whether these are with or without live entertainment. I imagine this is a direct result of recent outbreaks allegedly caused by people frequenting these establishments and not complying with the mandatory safety distance between people.

NURSING HOMES: Coronavirus testing must be carried out on any new residents at least 72 hours before arrival. The same tests must be carried out on new staff members or existing employees when they return from holidays. Visits will be limited to one person per resident for a maximum of one hour a day. Any visits must be staggered throughout the day to prevent gatherings of people. These measures may be lifted when the resident in question is in the last stages of their life

Remember that all other regulations approved last week are still in effect, especially concerning the use of face masks and hand sanitizer. This information has been taken from Resolución 20 August 2020 that you can also read for yourself. Stay safe everyone and happy weekend 🙂

13
Aug 2020
0

BREAKING NEWS: COVID-19. Canarian Government Mandates Compulsory Use of Masks even in Open Spaces

Today has been a flurry of news as President of the Canarian Government, Ángel Victor Torres announced new

BREAKING NEWS: COVID-19. Canarian Government Mandates Compulsory Use of Masks even in Open Spaces

COVID-19 , , , , , , Sabrina L. Williams

Today has been a flurry of news as President of the Canarian Government, Ángel Victor Torres announced new measures at midday as the Cabinet approved compulsory use of masks in ALL space, both enclosed and open-air. Fears of a second outbreak prompt the Canarian Government to take more drastic action.

Even though the Canary Islands have shown the fewest number of COVID-19 incidents in Spain (22,7 per 100.000 habitants) and is the last to impose obligtory use of masks at all times, these measures have been deemed necessary due to an increase in positive cases over the last 14 days.

The Extraordinary Cabinet Meeting held this morning, Thursday 13th August 2020 was to discuss and analyze the current situation and approve a series of measures to reinforce public health and safety and reduce the number of new cases on the islands. After a debate, the conclusion was the obligatory use of masks in all areas, even those where the safety distance of 1,5 metres can be upheld. Other prohibitions have been put in place with regards to bars, restaurants and nightclubs.

On the 31st July 2020, there was a reported 15 active outbreaks in the Canary Islands; 157 confirmed cases and more than 500 contacts that had been identified and quarantined. However, a mere 14 days later, there are 28 active outbreaks, which translates to 268 cases and 745 contacts that have been identified and quarantined. This situation has been a cause for concern and has prompted this decision which is a step back for the Canaries in the fight against COVID-19.

From tomorrow, Friday 14th August 2020 to coincide with the publication of a new decree in the Canary Islands’ Bulletin (BOC), the use of masks in all public areas will be mandatory for everyone over the age of 6. Remember, this applies to open-air spaces as well as enclosed public areas regardless of whether or not the 1,5 metre security distance can be maintained. The use of masks in private areas where persons from other households meet socially (private dinners, barbecues and gatherings) is recommended.

The decree will also stipulate the correct use of masks, which is to say, it must fully cover the nose and mouth at all times. The mask must also fit the wearer’s face correctly (from the nose to the chin) to prevent respiratory secretions.

Bars, Cafeterias and Restaurants: There are changes here as well. In addition to the above mandates, the maximum occupancy of tables or groupings of tables in these establishments is limited to 10 people regardless of the location of the tables (inside or outside). The 1,5 metre security distance between tables or groups of tables remains as before, and the same applies to seating at the bar itself. The establishment must make sure the security distance is shown clearly on signs.

Nightclubs: The only nightclubs permitted to trade are open-air clubs (terraces). They may only open for public consumption whether the customer is seated or standing. Access is permitted to groups of up to 10 people. The maximum occupancy is 75%, respecting the safety distance between patrons and of course, the use of masks.

Bouncers are required to enforce customers to respect the safety distance and to prevent crowds, paying special attention to the entrance and immediate surroundings of the premises. The Government has also prohibited boat parties where the safety distance cannot be maintained. Verbenas and local fiestas continue to be strictly prohibited.

Smoking: Another measure that has been approved is the prohibition to smoke in public areas to include the terraces of restaurants, bars and clubs. This strict measure has been in the making for a number of days in line with WHO recommendations.

The President of the Canarian Government spoke out about personal responsibility in the fight against COVID-19 as the relation between socializing and new contagion has become apparant. The latest outbreaks have mainly affected under 30s and have been linked to socializing in crowds. It is up to all of us to adhere to social distancing requirements to prevent the spread of the virus. Las Palmas has been named as the main source of the new outbreak, where 95% of the cases are linked to nightlife and young people, principally in an area where three nightclubs have been connected to 60 new cases.

The Canarian Government has not ruled out stricter measures if the population does not act responsibly. The “definitive” law is due to be published tomorrow, so if it outlines additional information or restrictions, I will update this post, so please be attentive and stay safe.

06
Jul 2020
2

New Spanish Residency Procedure for British Nationals

At the end of last week, I had an appointment at the National Police Station to obtain the

New Spanish Residency Procedure for British Nationals

General Spanish Regulations , , , Sabrina L. Williams

At the end of last week, I had an appointment at the National Police Station to obtain the residencia card for a client, but this did not go to plan because the system had blocked all procedures for British nationals so we walked away empty handed. This was obviously Brexit related although July had not been specifically highlighted as relevant in the transition period, so after doing some digging, it came to light that some changes are coming down the pipeline. I also noted during my investigation over the weekend, that in Part Four of the Withdrawal Agreement, the EU and the UK must make a joint decision before 1st July 2020 as to whether the transition period should be extended beyond 31st December 2020 up to two years.

On Saturday 4th July, the Interior Ministry published a law that details the procedure to follow in line with the UK’s Withdrawal Agreement from the EU regarding residencia applications. Spain is currently the EU country with the most British residents on record, with 359.471 registered on 31st December 2019.

As we all know, the UK left the EU on 31st January 2020 and a transition period began in which all necessary agreements must be confirmed by 31st December 2020, but until that date, EU regulations regarding freedom of movement and other rights would stay in place as if the UK were still a full EU Member State. Those British nationals in Spain who exercise their right to reside and/ or work in Spain during this period will be awarded the same rights as per the Agreement as those who were registered residents before Brexit.

Those who arrive after the transition period (31st December 2020) will be considered nationals from external countries and would have to abide by any new agreements in place between the EU and the UK regarding freedom of movement, Social Security etc.

In any case, the system was down at the end of last week whilst the new procedure was being integrated, and new applications can be made from today, Monday 6th July 2020 until the end of the year. For those whose rights to reside in Spain fall after the transition period, they must submit their applications within three months of arrival or from the moment in which the right begins.

There are different procedures in place depending on the applicants’ circumstances:

  1. Holders of temporary certificates who have not reached five years of legal residency in Spain. A new residency card can be applied for with a five-year validity and it would be classed as “Temporary”
  2. Holders of temporary certificates who have reached five years of legal residency in Spain, but who have not updated their certificate type can apply for a new card valid for ten years that would be classed as “Permanent”
  3. Holders of permanent certificates can apply for the new card which would be valid for a ten-year period and classed as “Permanent”
  4. Applicants who are not yet holders of any type of residencia certificate must go through a two-step process, but it is not 100% clear how it will be managed in the Province of Las Palmas, but the likely scenario is via both the Delegación del Gobierno and the National Police

If you have the green residencia card, you can check your status on the card itself by means of the text, “Residente comunitario permanente en España desde 01/01/1990″ or just “Residente comunitario en España desde 01/01/2019” for example. These cards do not show photo ID, but this will be required for the new cards to be issued.

The law also contemplates current holders of residencia cards obtained via a UK family member, for example, a US national who is married to a UK national who obtained the right to residency in Spain in that way. Although these cards already contain photo ID, they must be updated in line with this new law.

The law does not demand physical presence in Spain after the transition period as temporary absence does not affect the right to reside in Spain.

Government fees will of course be charged for the new residencia cards, but for those of us that remember the old cards with photo ID that were issued prior to the current green card, this will be a welcome change as we weren’t required to carry our passports. At present, exchanging your existing residencia card for the new version is voluntary not obligatory.

Remember, this procedure is only required for BRITISH NATIONALS who reside in Spain due to Brexit. I plan to test the new procedure out on myself and obtain a card (hopefully!) to verify how simple or complex it turns out to be in practice. New information is bound to be released when it becomes available so watch this space for further updates.

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