Essential tips for having a TPA in Spain

TIPS  –  How to do your refit / works onboard VAT exempt?

If you are planning to undertake refit works, we can provide you, as authorized Customs Agents, an importation procedure for exemption that is called Inward Processing, in Spain “TPA”.

We can give you assistance in all the Ports no matter where you are berthed in Spain. Provide of all the assistance needed in order to proceed with VAT exemption and also all taxes affected to the repairs or to an improvement of the vessel, according to the law 2913/92 (CEE) inside EU, and in particular in Spain art. 24.1 of the VAT law.   

While you are under TPA, the boat is not using the temporary time frame allowed to non-EU vessels, so your 18 months period would be suspended as well.  We will be notifying your position to customs and you need to have in mind that you will need to notify customs if you want to change berth, do sea trials and as well declare the parts you want to move/dispose or sell.

Main and mandatory condition to close this TPA is that you must exit EU directly from your berth position after finalizing to a non-EU port for exportation of all the goods/repairs.


We know that the TPA procedure might be overwhelming and we understand the importance of having a reliable advisor who is able to guide you from the opening to the closure of the TPA for your vessel.

On this basis we are able to give you the answer to all the frequent concerns such as

  1. How much is this going to cost me?
  2. How long does it take to open a TPA?
  3. What kind of goods, works and services can be included in my vessel exemption?
  4. What are the advantages for the owner?
  5. What about if my plans change?

If you are interested or have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us to the following address: customs@evolutionagents.com

Get your B1B2 visas for crew

Get your B1B2 visas for crew

Although times are still uncertain, many vessels are preparing for a Caribbean season and therefore needing B1B2 visas for their crew. 

Even prior to COVID, there are many horror stories out there of visa refusals, mostly due the lack of information and preparation prior to their interview, which lead the Embassy not to be convinced about the applicants’ purpose for entering the USA.

Add on top of this, the difficulty of the current global situation – with so many changing travel restrictions and fewer visas being authorized, it is of vital importance to have trusted and well-founded advice to guide you correctly through all the steps to ensure a successful application.

US embassies in Europe closed their agendas for a time over the summer and there is now a backlog of appointments – many are publishing the next availability well in to 2021, even as far as August!  Despite this, so far this season, Evolution has successfully arranged over 80 appointments for crew members applying for a B1B2 visas in Madrid, all within a time frame to suit their boat´s agenda despite the calendar posting no availability in 2020.  Some even have been confirmed within a week´s notice and all those who have had their appointments have been granted the desired visa.

Our experience of this process over the past few years guarantees Evolution as your perfect partner to ensure a swift application process and increasing considerably the chances of success.


Let us know if we can assist with your Visa B1B2 appointments at info@evolutionagents.com

Christmas Treats around Spain

Christmas Treats around Spain
Does the image of Christmas bring up a tree, or at least some decorations?  Perhaps the exchanging of presents, and a yearning to be close to friends and family. Those of us fortunate to be finishing the year in this way can also look forward to a certain level of indulgence. Yes, food and drink are certainly a central aspect of Christmas in Spain! Here are some of the seasonal treats to look out for.

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Christmas markets

Christmas markets
The festive street lights have been switched on, shop windows sparkle with seasonal displays, and yes, the popular Christmas markets around Spain are now in full swing. Tradition and festive good cheer weave together among the many stalls which offer gifts and decorations, as well as themed activities and events for all the family to enjoy. Here are two of our favourites.

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Trusting your local logistics agent.

Trusting your local logistics agent.
Xisco Notario, one of the managers at Evolution, is a firm believer that every yacht needs the support of a good local agent that anticipates problems before they arise and is the first to deal with them head on.  Someone who knows the rules and will keep you informed, without burying their head in the sand hoping there won’t be any problems.  “At Evolution we have the right phone numbers and the right contacts throughout Spain,” he confirms. “We know how important it is to coordinate the necessary parts and services according to each yacht’s requirements and schedules.”

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