Moving to Spain from Venezuela: Complete 2026 Guide
Over 400,000 Venezuelans now live in Spain-a population that multiplied 10 times in just 10 years. The 2-year citizenship path and visa-free entry make Spain the top European destination for Venezuelans.
Key Facts for Venezuelans
- Visa: Not required (90 days visa-free)
- Citizenship: 2 years (Ibero-American)
- Dual Nationality: Allowed
- Tax Treaty: Active since 1988
Why Venezuelans Choose Spain
The numbers tell a dramatic story. In 2014, Spain had about 40,000 Venezuelan residents. By 2024, that number exceeded 400,000. The Venezuelan population in Spain grows by approximately 240 people per day. In 2024 alone, over 103,000 Venezuelans arrived-the third-highest immigration flow after Colombia and Morocco.
Several factors drive this migration. Political and economic crisis in Venezuela pushes people to leave. Shared language eliminates the main barrier to integration. Visa-free entry means you can arrive and assess opportunities before committing. And the 2-year citizenship path offers a fast route to EU membership.
About one-third of Venezuelan immigrants choose Madrid. Barcelona, Valencia, and the Canary Islands also have significant communities. Support networks, cultural events, and Venezuelan-owned businesses make the transition easier.
Visa Options
Important: Venezuelans can enter Spain visa-free for up to 90 days. However, staying longer requires obtaining a proper residence permit. You cannot legally work during the tourist period-only once you have the appropriate visa.
Citizenship in 2 Years
As an Ibero-American nation, Venezuelan 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-Venezuelans are exempt from language test
- Clean criminal record in Venezuela and Spain
- Proof of economic means and social integration
Spain allows dual citizenship with Latin American countries. You retain your Venezuelan passport while gaining full EU citizenship-freedom to live and work across 27 countries.
Spanish Consulates in Venezuela
Caracas. Embassy and Consulate General (Main)
Av. Mohedano, Quinta Embajada de España
Urbanización La Castellana
Phone: +58 212 627 0300
Emergency (Spanish citizens): +58 424 209 0264
Hours: Monday-Friday 08:30-13:30
Other Major Consulates
Maracaibo, Valencia, Barquisimeto, Mérida, San Cristóbal, Maracay
Puerto La Cruz, Ciudad Bolívar, Ciudad Guayana, Porlamar
Additional Representations
18+ cities total including Acarigua, Barinas, Cumaná, Maturín, Punto Fijo
Spain has one of the largest consular networks in Venezuela
Required Documents
Prepare before your application:
- Passport valid for at least 1 year (expired passports accepted-see below)
- Criminal record from Venezuelan authorities, apostilled
- Medical certificate from authorized physician
- Proof of income (bank statements, contracts, remittances)
- Health insurance from Spanish-authorized provider
- Application form completed and signed
- Photos passport size, white background
Note on expired passports: Spain and several other countries accept expired Venezuelan passports due to the difficulty of obtaining renewals in Venezuela. Check current policy with the consulate.
Tax Considerations
Venezuela-Spain Double Tax Treaty (1988)
The bilateral agreement covers income taxation between both countries.
Key Points:
- Venezuelan income: Credit available for taxes paid to Venezuela
- Remittances: Money sent to Venezuela is not additionally taxed
- Beckham Law: Digital nomads can opt for flat 24% rate (vs up to 47%)
- Investment protection: Bilateral investment treaty provides additional protections
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I enter Spain with an expired Venezuelan passport?
Yes, currently. Spain accepts expired Venezuelan passports recognizing the difficulty of obtaining renewals. However, policies can change-verify current requirements before travel.
Can I work during my 90-day tourist period?
No. Working during the tourist visa-free period is illegal and can result in deportation and future entry bans. You need a proper work authorization before starting any employment.
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 Venezuelan professional degree be recognized?
Regulated professions require homologation through Spanish authorities (6-18 months). Many Venezuelan professionals work in non-regulated fields while waiting for credential recognition.
We Handle Everything
The Venezuelan community in Spain has grown faster than any other in recent years. The rapid growth creates both support networks and competition-for jobs, for housing, for appointments. Documentation requirements continue evolving as policies adapt to the migration flow.
At Legal Fournier, we manage everything. Residence applications prepared correctly. Tax planning coordinated between Venezuelan and Spanish systems. NIE registration, empadronamiento, social security enrollment, and citizenship application support when you reach 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.