Moving to Spain from Uruguay: Complete 2026 Guide
Nearly 90,000 Uruguayans live in Spain-and the community is growing. Visa-free entry plus the 2-year citizenship path makes Spain the easiest European destination for Uruguayans.
Key Facts for Uruguayans
- Visa: Not required (90 days visa-free)
- Citizenship: 2 years (Ibero-American)
- Dual Nationality: Allowed
- Tax Treaty: Active since 2011
Why Uruguayans Choose Spain
Spain hosts approximately 90,000 Uruguayan residents as of 2024. The community has grown steadily-in Barcelona alone, the Uruguayan population increased from 13,000 in 2021 to nearly 18,000 in 2024. About 27% of Uruguayans in Spain live in Cataluña.
The advantages are clear: visa-free entry means you can arrive and explore before committing. Shared language eliminates integration barriers. And the 2-year citizenship path offers the fastest route to EU membership available to Uruguayans anywhere in Europe.
Uruguays high passport ranking (23rd globally) reflects its international mobility. Adding Spanish citizenship extends that reach into permanent EU work and residence rights.
Visa Options
Uruguayans can enter Spain visa-free for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. To stay longer, you must obtain a proper residence visa before the tourist period expires. Note: ETIAS authorization (€7) will be required starting late 2026.
Citizenship in 2 Years
As an Ibero-American nation, Uruguay qualifies for Spains accelerated citizenship. After 2 years of continuous legal residence, you can apply for Spanish nationality.
- 2 years continuous legal residence (absences under 3 months)
- CCSE exam (Spanish constitutional and cultural knowledge)
- DELE A2 exam exemption-Uruguayans are exempt from language test
- Clean criminal record in Uruguay and Spain
- Proof of economic means and social integration
Spain allows dual citizenship with Latin American countries. You keep your Uruguayan passport while gaining EU rights.
Spanish Consulates in Uruguay
Montevideo. Embassy (Only location)
Calle Libertad 2738
11300 Montevideo
Phone: +598 2 708 60 10
Email: [email protected]
Hours: Monday-Friday 09:00-13:00
Spain has only one diplomatic mission in Uruguay-the Embassy in Montevideo. All visa and consular services are handled there.
Required Documents
Prepare for your application:
- Passport valid for at least 6 months, under 10 years old
- Criminal record from Uruguay, 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
All Uruguayan documents must be apostilled. Passport needs at least 2 blank pages.
Tax Considerations
Uruguay-Spain Double Tax Treaty (2011)
Signed in 2009 and effective since 2011, the treaty prevents double taxation.
Key Points:
- Employment income: Taxed where work is performed
- Uruguayan investments: Treaty provisions for reduced withholding
- Beckham Law: Digital nomads can opt for flat 24% rate
- Pensions: Treaty provisions apply to retirement income
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I enter Spain without a visa?
Yes. Uruguayans can enter Spain visa-free for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. For longer stays, you need a residence visa.
What is ETIAS?
Starting late 2026, Uruguayans will need ETIAS authorization (€7, valid 3 years) to enter Spain. Its a simple online form, not a visa-Uruguay remains visa-free.
Can I work during the 90-day tourist period?
No. Working without proper authorization is illegal and can affect future residency applications. Get the correct visa before working.
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.
We Handle Everything
Visa-free entry simplifies arrival, but converting to legal residency still requires careful documentation. The single consulate in Montevideo handles all applications-appointments can fill quickly.
At Legal Fournier, we manage everything. Residence applications prepared correctly. Tax planning coordinated between Uruguayan and Spanish systems. NIE registration, empadronamiento, social security, and citizenship application support at the 2-year mark.
This guide provides general information. Immigration and tax regulations change regularly. For planning tailored to your situation, contact our team.