Canary Islands - Clearance

As part of Spain, the Canaries are members of the EU, with which they have a special relationship. The islands have remained outside the EU VAT area, although there is a low local tax on sales and services. The usual EU regulations apply, but because of their isolated position the Canarian authorities tend to treat all arriving yachts as if coming from a non-EU country.

Canaries Arrival Procedures for Yachts

Ports of Entry:

Yachts arriving from outside the EU should proceed to a port of entry to complete clearance with all the authorities.

Yachts coming from another EU country, or mainland Spain, can proceed to any port, but must report to the Port Authority or marina office on arrival. Many marinas will handle all the paperwork.

General Process:

The Port Captain or marina office will advise on the correct procedure  in their port, and, in the case of the marinas, will contact the relevant authorities depending on where you are coming from.

All non-EU boats must visit the National Police to get passports stamped on arrival and departure.

The captain will need to show ship’s papers, crew passports and provide a copy of his/her passport, and proof of insurance. Although the Canaries are a duty-free area, you will still need to fill in and return a customs declaration form, provided on arrival.

Canaries Domestic Cruising

There are no restrictions on yacht movements in the Canaries and it is not necessary to clear in and out of ports as you move around the Islands. Papers may be checked at subsequent ports.

Canaries Departure Procedures for Yachts

This is not mandatory, however, it is advisable to obtain Clearance when leaving the Canaries as this is often required by officials in other countries. Visit the Frontier Police to get passports stamped.

If this is impossible to obtain, carry stamped crew lists, receipts and the berthing contract paid on arrival/departure, as proof of last port visited.

Last updated:  September 2024