Moving to Spain from Dominican Republic: Complete 2026 Guide
Over 269,000 Dominicans call Spain home-the third largest destination for Dominican emigrants after the USA. With the 2-year citizenship path and 67.8% naturalization rate, Dominicans have the highest citizenship conversion of any immigrant group in Spain.
Key Facts for Dominicans
- Visa: Required (Schengen visa needed)
- Citizenship: 2 years (Ibero-American)
- Dual Nationality: Allowed
- Tax Treaty: Active since 2014
Why Dominicans Choose Spain
Spain hosts the third-largest Dominican diaspora worldwide. The INE counts over 200,000 people born in the Dominican Republic, plus 68,000 second-generation born in Spain. Including naturalized citizens, the community exceeds 269,000 people.
The numbers reveal something remarkable: Dominicans have the highest naturalization rate of any immigrant group in Spain at 67.8%. Over 136,000 Dominicans have obtained Spanish citizenship-evidence that the 2-year path works and the community has deep roots.
Main concentrations are Madrid (68,000), Cataluña (49,000), and Barcelona (40,000). These cities have established Dominican neighborhoods, restaurants, cultural associations, and support networks. Finding Dominican food, music, and community is straightforward.
Visa Options
Important: Unlike some Latin American countries, Dominicans need a Schengen visa to enter Spain. You cannot enter on a tourist waiver and apply for residency-proper visa application through the consulate is required.
Citizenship in 2 Years
As an Ibero-American nation, Dominican Republic citizens qualify for accelerated naturalization. After just 2 years of continuous legal residence, you can apply for Spanish citizenship. Most nationalities wait 10 years.
Requirements:
- 2 years continuous legal residence (absences under 3 months)
- CCSE exam (Spanish constitutional and cultural knowledge)
- DELE A2 exam exemption-Dominicans are exempt from language test
- Clean criminal record in Dominican Republic and Spain
- Proof of economic means and social integration
Spain allows dual citizenship with Latin American countries. You keep your Dominican passport while gaining full EU citizenship rights.
Spanish Consulates in Dominican Republic
Santo Domingo. Embassy (Main)
Av. Independencia 1205
Santo Domingo
Phone: (+1 809) 535-6500
Appointments: Required, book online
Other Consular Offices
Barahona, Constanza, Higüey, Las Terrenas, Nagua
For minor services; visa applications through Santo Domingo
Required Documents
Prepare before your consulate appointment:
- Passport valid for at least 1 year
- Criminal record from Procuraduría General, legalized
- Medical certificate from authorized physician
- Proof of income (bank statements, employment letter)
- Health insurance from Spanish-authorized provider
- Application form completed and signed
- Photos passport size, white background
All Dominican documents must be legalized through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Tax Considerations
Dominican Republic-Spain Double Tax Treaty (2014)
The bilateral agreement prevents paying taxes twice on the same income.
Key Points:
- Employment income: Taxed where work is performed
- DR investments: Reduced withholding under treaty
- Beckham Law: Digital nomads can opt for flat 24% rate
- Remittances: Money sent home is not additionally taxed
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa to visit Spain?
Yes. Dominican Republic is one of the Latin American countries that requires a Schengen visa even for tourism. You cannot enter visa-free and apply for residency later-proper visa application is essential.
Why is the Dominican naturalization rate so high?
At 67.8%, Dominicans have the highest citizenship conversion in Spain. The 2-year path combined with strong community ties and shared language makes naturalization straightforward for those who meet the requirements.
Can I bring my family?
Yes through family reunification. Income requirements increase: +75% for spouse, +25% per child. Your family members also qualify for the 2-year citizenship path once legally resident.
Will my Dominican degree be recognized?
Regulated professions require homologation through Spanish authorities (6-18 months). You can work in non-regulated fields immediately while waiting for credential recognition.
We Handle Everything
The visa requirement for Dominicans means the process starts before you even enter Spain. Getting documentation right the first time is essential-rejections mean delays and additional costs. The large community creates competition for consular appointments.
At Legal Fournier, we manage everything. Visa applications prepared correctly and submitted properly. Tax planning coordinated between Dominican and Spanish systems. NIE registration, empadronamiento, social security enrollment, and citizenship application support when you hit the 2-year mark. Our clients arrive ready to live in Spain-not to navigate bureaucracy.
This guide provides general information. Immigration and tax regulations change regularly. For planning tailored to your situation, contact our team.