Moving to Spain from Cuba: Complete 2026 Guide
Nearly 200,000 Cubans already live in Spain, with 50,000 more arriving in 2023-2024 alone. The 2-year citizenship path and Democratic Memory Law have made Spain the top European destination for Cubans.
Key Facts for Cubans
- Visa: Required (90 days max without one)
- Citizenship: 2 years (Ibero-American country)
- Dual Nationality: Allowed with Cuba
- Tax Treaty: Active with Spain
Why Cubans Choose Spain
The numbers tell the story. The INE registered nearly 200,000 people of Cuban origin in Spain as of January 2023. Then 28,900 more arrived that year, and another 24,000+ in the first three quarters of 2024. Spain has become the primary European destination for Cubans leaving the island.
Several factors drive this migration wave. The economic crisis in Cuba has intensified. Spain offers a 2-year path to citizenship-the fastest in Europe for Cubans. And the Democratic Memory Law (Ley de Memoria Democrática), sometimes called the “Grandchildrens Law,” allows Cubans with Spanish ancestry to claim citizenship directly.
Established Cuban communities exist in Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, and the Canary Islands. Support networks, immigrant associations, and Cuban-owned businesses make the transition easier. You will find Cuban restaurants, cultural events, and Spanish-speaking medical professionals throughout these regions.
Visa Options
Note: The Democratic Memory Law provides a separate path. If you have a Spanish parent, grandparent, or in some cases great-grandparent who was exiled or emigrated during the Civil War or Franco era, you may qualify for citizenship directly-without the 2-year residency requirement.
Citizenship in 2 Years
As an Ibero-American national, you qualify for Spanish citizenship after just 2 years of continuous legal residence. Most nationalities wait 10 years.
Requirements for naturalization:
- 2 years continuous legal residence (absences under 3 months)
- CCSE exam (Spanish constitutional and cultural knowledge)
- DELE A2 exam exemption-as a Spanish-speaking country, Cubans are exempt
- Clean criminal record in Cuba and Spain
- Proof of social and economic integration
Spain allows dual citizenship with Cuba. You keep your Cuban passport while gaining full EU citizenship-freedom to live and work across 27 countries.
Spanish Consulates in Cuba
Havana. Embassy and Consulate General (Main)
Calle Cárcel 51, esquina a Zulueta
La Habana 10100
Phone: +53 7 866 80 25
Appointments: Required, book online
Santiago de Cuba
Consulate for eastern Cuba
Limited services; most visa applications through Havana
Other Consulates
Camagüey and Santa Clara have Spanish consular representation
For minor services; major applications require Havana
Required Documents
Prepare before your consulate appointment:
- Passport valid for at least 1 year
- Criminal record certificate from Cuban authorities, legalized
- Medical certificate from authorized physician
- Proof of income (bank statements, employment letter, remittances)
- Health insurance from Spanish-authorized provider
- Application form completed and signed
- Photos passport size, white background
- Visa fee varies by visa type
Cuban documents must be legalized through proper channels. Apostille is not available as Cuba is not party to the Hague Convention.
Tax Considerations
Cuba-Spain Tax Relations
Spain has a double taxation agreement with Cuba covering various income types.
Key Points:
- Cuban income: Credit available for taxes paid to Cuba
- Remittances to Cuba: Not additionally taxed when sending money home
- Beckham Law: Digital nomads can opt for flat 24% rate (vs up to 47%)
- Cuban pensions: May be taxable in Spain if you become tax resident
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Democratic Memory Law?
The 2022 law allows descendants of Spanish exiles to claim citizenship. If your parent, grandparent, or in some cases great-grandparent was Spanish and left due to the Civil War, Franco regime, or economic exile, you may qualify for nationality without the 2-year residency.
Can I work while waiting for my visa?
No. You must remain in Cuba until your visa is approved. Processing times vary significantly-plan for several months and have documentation ready.
Can I bring my family?
Yes through family reunification. Income requirements increase: +75% for spouse, +25% per child. Family members also qualify for the 2-year citizenship path once legally resident.
Will my Cuban professional titles be recognized?
Regulated professions require homologation. Cuban medical and engineering degrees need validation through Spanish authorities, which takes 6-18 months. You can work in non-regulated fields immediately.
We Handle Everything
The Cuban community in Spain has grown rapidly. That growth creates both support and competition-consular appointments fill quickly, processing times fluctuate, and the paperwork requirements continue evolving with new laws like the Democratic Memory Law.
At Legal Fournier, we manage everything. Visa applications prepared correctly and submitted properly. Democratic Memory Law nationality claims for those who qualify. NIE registration, empadronamiento, social security enrollment, and citizenship application support at the 2-year mark. You focus on building your new life in Spain. We handle the bureaucracy.
This guide provides general information. Immigration and tax regulations change regularly. For planning tailored to your situation, contact our team.