Moving to Spain from Israel: Complete 2026 Guide
Spains growing Israeli community, strong tech connections, and Mediterranean lifestyle make it an increasingly attractive destination. With the Sephardic heritage law and thriving startup system, Spain offers unique opportunities for Israelis.
Key Facts for Israelis
- Visa: Required for stays over 90 days
- Citizenship: 10 years residency (standard path)
- Dual Nationality: Allowed by Israel (Spain requires formal renunciation declaration)
- Tax Treaty: Active since 1999
Why Israelis Choose Spain
Israel-born Jews now make up over 20% of Spains Jewish community, with the Israeli population in Spain growing by 39% over the past decade. Spain hosts approximately 45,000 Jews, concentrated in Madrid (15,000), Barcelona (15,000), and Southern Spain (10,000). The Israeli community continues to expand rapidly.
Several factors drive Israeli migration to Spain. The Mediterranean climate feels familiar. The tech and startup system offers business opportunities, with Spain actively courting tech talent. The cost of living is significantly lower than Tel Aviv or Jerusalem. And for Israelis with Sephardic ancestry, there may be a direct path to citizenship through the 2015 Sephardic Heritage Law.
The lifestyle appeal is strong. Spain offers a relaxed pace of life, excellent food, and a welcoming culture. Direct flights connect Tel Aviv to Madrid and Barcelona. The Jewish communities in major Spanish cities provide cultural continuity, with synagogues, kosher restaurants, and community centers.
Visa Options
Israelis require a visa for stays longer than 90 days. For tourism or short business trips, you can enter the Schengen area visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
Path to Citizenship (10 Years)
The standard path to Spanish citizenship for Israeli nationals requires 10 years of continuous legal residence. This is the general rule for nationalities without special historical ties to Spain.
Requirements for naturalization:
- 10 years continuous legal residence (absences limited)
- DELE A2 exam (Spanish language proficiency)
- CCSE exam (Spanish constitutional and cultural knowledge)
- Clean criminal record in Israel and Spain
- Proof of economic means and social integration
- Formal declaration of renunciation of previous nationality (required by Spain)
Note on dual citizenship: Israel allows dual citizenship. Spain requires a formal declaration of renunciation during the naturalization process. However, Israel does not recognize this Spanish declaration, so in practice many naturalized citizens maintain both nationalities.
Sephardic Heritage Path
Israelis with Sephardic Jewish ancestry may qualify for Spanish citizenship under the 2015 Law of Sephardic Jews. This requires proving descent from Jews expelled from Spain in 1492. If you qualify, you can obtain citizenship without the 10-year residency requirement.
Spanish Consulates in Israel
Tel Aviv. Embassy of Spain
Embassy of Spain in Israel
Tel Aviv
Primary consular services for visa applications
Appointments: Online booking required
Jerusalem. Consulate General
Calle Makhal 32, Sheikh Jarrah
PO Box 19128, Jerusalem 9100102
Phone: +972 599 27 65 38 (emergencies only)
For Spanish citizens in emergencies only
Required Documents
Prepare before your consulate appointment:
- Passport valid for at least 1 year
- Criminal record certificate from Israeli Police, apostilled
- Medical certificate from authorized physician
- Proof of income (bank statements, contracts, investments)
- Health insurance from Spanish-authorized provider
- Application form completed and signed
- Photos passport size, white background
- Visa fee varies by visa type
All Israeli documents must be apostilled through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Israel is party to the Hague Apostille Convention).
Tax Considerations
Israel-Spain Double Tax Treaty (1999)
The bilateral agreement prevents paying taxes twice on the same income. The treaty has been in force since 1999 and follows standard OECD principles.
Key Points:
- Israeli pensions: May be taxable in Spain if you become tax resident
- Israeli investments: Reduced withholding rates under treaty
- Beckham Law: Digital nomads can opt for flat 24% rate (vs up to 47%)
- Dividends: Reduced withholding for qualifying shareholdings
- Business profits: Taxed where permanent establishment exists
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the Sephardic Heritage Law?
If you can prove Sephardic Jewish ancestry (descent from Jews expelled from Spain in 1492), you may qualify for citizenship without the 10-year residency requirement. Documentation requirements include family records, community certificates, and proof of Ladino language or Sephardic customs.
Will I lose my Israeli citizenship?
No. Israel allows dual citizenship. Spain requires a formal renunciation declaration during naturalization, but Israel does not recognize this. In practice, most naturalized Israelis maintain both citizenships.
Can I bring my family?
Yes through family reunification. Income requirements increase for dependents. Your family members can also apply for citizenship after meeting the residency requirements.
Are there Jewish communities in Spain?
Yes. Approximately 45,000 Jews live in Spain, concentrated in Madrid, Barcelona, and Southern Spain. You will find synagogues, kosher restaurants, Jewish schools, and community centers in major cities.
We Handle Everything
Moving from Israel to Spain involves navigating different legal systems, document requirements, and bureaucratic processes. Whether you are pursuing the standard 10-year residency path, exploring the Sephardic Heritage Law, or setting up a business, proper planning is essential.
At Legal Fournier, we manage everything. Visa applications prepared correctly the first time. Tax planning coordinated between Israeli and Spanish systems. NIE registration, empadronamiento, social security enrollment, and citizenship application support. For those with Sephardic ancestry, we assist with heritage documentation. You focus on building your new life in Spain. We handle the paperwork.
This guide provides general information. Immigration and tax regulations change regularly. For planning tailored to your situation, contact our team.