Moving to Spain from Bolivia: Complete 2026 Guide
Over 85,000 Bolivians live in Spain, with 9,000+ obtaining Spanish citizenship in 2023 alone. The 2-year fast-track citizenship makes Spain a compelling destination-but Bolivians need a Schengen visa to enter.
Key Facts for Bolivians
- Visa: Required (Schengen visa needed)
- Citizenship: 2 years (Ibero-American)
- Dual Nationality: Allowed
- Tax Treaty: Active since 1998
Why Bolivians Choose Spain
Spain hosts the largest Bolivian diaspora in Europe with approximately 85,000 registered residents. The community peaked at nearly 240,000 in 2008 before the financial crisis, but has stabilized and remains well-established. In 2023 alone, over 9,000 Bolivians obtained Spanish citizenship.
Major concentrations include Barcelona (22,500), Madrid (18,000), Murcia (7,500), and Valencia (6,300). These cities have Bolivian cultural associations, restaurants, and community networks that support new arrivals.
The 2-year citizenship path is the key advantage. While most nationalities wait 10 years for Spanish nationality, Bolivians can apply after just 2 years of legal residence. Spanish citizenship means EU citizenship-freedom to work across 27 countries.
Visa Options
Important: Unlike some Latin American countries, Bolivians require a Schengen visa to enter Spain. You cannot enter visa-free and apply for residency later. Visa applications are submitted at the Spanish Consulate in La Paz.
Citizenship in 2 Years
As an Ibero-American nation, Bolivia qualifies for Spains accelerated naturalization. After 2 years of continuous legal residence, you can apply for Spanish citizenship.
- 2 years continuous legal residence (absences under 3 months)
- CCSE exam (Spanish constitutional and cultural knowledge)
- DELE A2 exam exemption-Bolivians are exempt from language test
- Clean criminal record in Bolivia and Spain
- Proof of economic means
Spain allows dual citizenship with Latin American countries. You keep your Bolivian passport while gaining EU rights.
Spanish Consulates in Bolivia
La Paz. Embassy (Main)
Avenida 6 de Agosto, 2827
La Paz
Phone: +591 2 243 3518
Hours: Monday-Friday 09:00-13:00
Santa Cruz de la Sierra. Consulate General
Avenida Canoto (1er Anillo), Esquina Calle Perú
Phone: +591 3 33 46 500
Emergency: +591 7632 1421
Other Consulates
Tarija, Trinidad (Beni), Potosí, Sucre
For some services; visa applications typically through La Paz or Santa Cruz
Required Documents
Prepare before your visa appointment:
- Passport valid for at least 1 year
- Criminal record (REJAP) apostilled
- Medical certificate from authorized physician
- Proof of income (bank statements, contracts)
- Health insurance from Spanish-authorized provider
- Application form completed and signed
- Photos passport size, white background
Minimum funds: €108/day, minimum €972 total. All documents must be apostilled.
Tax Considerations
Bolivia-Spain Double Tax Treaty (1998)
Signed in 1997 and in force since 1998, the treaty prevents double taxation.
Key Points:
- Employment income: Taxed where work is performed
- Bolivian investments: Treaty provisions for reduced withholding
- Beckham Law: Digital nomads can opt for flat 24% rate
- Remittances: Not additionally taxed when sending money home
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa to visit Spain?
Yes. Bolivia is one of the Latin American countries that requires a Schengen visa. Apply at the Spanish Consulate in La Paz.
How long does visa processing take?
Typically 2-4 months. Begin document collection 3 months before your intended travel date. Appointment availability varies.
Can I bring my family?
Yes through family reunification. Income requirements increase: +75% for spouse, +25% per child. Family members also qualify for 2-year citizenship path.
Will my Bolivian degree be recognized?
Regulated professions need homologation (6-18 months). You can work in non-regulated fields while waiting.
We Handle Everything
The visa requirement for Bolivians means extra complexity before you even arrive. Getting documentation right is critical-rejections cause delays and additional costs.
At Legal Fournier, we manage everything. Visa applications prepared correctly the first time. Tax planning coordinated between Bolivian and Spanish systems. NIE registration, empadronamiento, social security enrollment, and citizenship support when you reach the 2-year mark.
This guide provides general information. Immigration and tax regulations change regularly. For planning tailored to your situation, contact our team.