Key Facts for Ukrainian Citizens
- Visa Required: No (Temporary Protection) / Yes (standard route)
- Temporary Protection: Extended to March 4, 2027. Immediate residence and work rights
- Processing Time: TP: 2-4 weeks / Standard visas: 1-3 months
- Application Centers: CREADE in Madrid, Barcelona, Alicante, Málaga
- Citizenship Timeline: 10 years (TP time counts!)
- Tax Treaty: Yes (1985)
- Dual Citizenship: Ukraine changing laws (effective Jan 2026). Spain requires renunciation, Ukraine doesn’t enforce.
Why Ukrainian Citizens Choose Spain
Since February 2022, Ukrainian families have been establishing new lives in Spain.
Spain’s healthcare system accepts Temporary Protection holders immediately. Education is free. Strong communities have developed in Malaga, Alicante, Valencia, and Madrid with churches, cultural associations, and support networks.
Over 320,000 Ukrainians now hold valid residency documents in Spain, making it one of the top EU host countries.
Temporary Protection Status
The EU activated the Temporary Protection Directive on March 4, 2022 the first time ever. Spain implemented it immediately. This status provides the fastest path to legal residence and work authorization.
Extended to March 4, 2027. Existing holders don’t need to reapply. Rights retained automatically.
Who qualifies:
- Ukrainian nationals residing in Ukraine before February 24, 2022
- Stateless persons with international protection in Ukraine
- Family members regardless of nationality
- Ukrainians on short-term visas in Spain when conflict began
Benefits include:
- Legal residence authorization
- Work authorization. Any employer, self-employment allowed
- Public healthcare (tarjeta sanitaria)
- Social services and emergency housing
- Education access
- Schengen travel (90/180 days)
- Simplified family reunification
Standard Visa Options
Some Ukrainians prefer or need standard immigration routes, those who left before February 2022, don’t qualify for TP, or want more permanent status from the start.
Not sure which path fits your situation? Each has different requirements and implications. Book a consultation and we’ll map out the optimal strategy.
Tax Considerations
Tax Treaty: Ukraine-Spain
The Double Taxation Agreement signed in 1985 remains in force. It prevents paying taxes twice on the same income.
Key Points:
- Beckham Law: Flat 24% tax for 6 years on Spanish income (Digital Nomad Visa eligible)
- Ukrainian Assets: If you have property/income in Ukraine, must declare worldwide income
- Tax Rates: Progressive 19-47% depending on income and region
Required Documents
We understand many Ukrainians left quickly without time to gather documents. Spanish authorities have shown flexibility.
For Temporary Protection:
- Ukrainian passport or any Ukrainian ID document
- Proof of address in Spain
- Form EX-17 (available at police station)
For Standard Visas:
- Passport valid for visa duration
- Criminal Record via Ukrainian consulates (4-6 weeks)
- Birth/Marriage Certificates (2-4 months via consulates)
- Health Insurance covering Spain
- Financial Documentation per visa type
Ukraine joined the Hague Apostille Convention in 2003. Documents need apostille plus sworn Spanish translation (traductor jurado).
Path to Spanish Citizenship
10 years continuous legal residence required. Important: Time under Temporary Protection counts! If you arrived March 2022 under TP and maintain continuous residence, you could apply for citizenship in early 2032.
Dual citizenship is changing: Ukraine passed Law 4502-IX in mid-2026, effective January 16, 2026. Initial approved countries: USA, Canada, Germany, Poland, Czech Republic. Spain may be added. Currently, Spain requires renunciation but Ukraine doesn’t actively enforce the prohibition for citizens who naturalize abroad.
Citizenship requires CCSE exam (Spanish culture, 25 questions, 60% to pass) and DELE A2 (Spanish language). Processing backlogs currently 2-3 years after application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I travel back to Ukraine and return?
Yes. You can visit Ukraine and return to Spain without losing Temporary Protection status. Keep trips short to avoid questions about whether you still need protection. Document reasons if you need to stay longer.
What happens if Temporary Protection ends?
The EU and Spain have shown no indication of abruptly ending protection – it’s been extended to 2027. If it eventually ends, there will likely be transition periods. We advise building residency history and securing alternative permits where possible.
Can I switch to a regular residence permit?
Yes. Many clients apply for standard work or residence permits while holding TP – this provides additional security. You can hold both statuses simultaneously. The transition is straightforward if you meet regular permit requirements.
Does TP time count toward permanent residence and citizenship?
Current interpretation suggests yes – TP time counts toward both the 5-year requirement for EU long-term residence and the 10-year requirement for citizenship. This may evolve, so consult with us about your specific situation.
We Handle Everything
Spanish bureaucracy is relentless. Visa applications, tax residency, NIE appointments, ongoing compliance. Getting any of it wrong costs time and money. We handle the paperwork and planning so you can focus on actually building your life here.
This guide provides general information about moving from Ukraine to Spain. Requirements can change. Contact us for personalized advice on your situation. Information accurate as of January 2026.