Spain has opened a new consular office in Benghazi, marking its first official consular presence in the eastern Libyan city in more than 70 years, according to the Spanish magazine Atalayar. The move is being described as unprecedented and signals a significant shift in Spain’s diplomatic and consular engagement with eastern Libya.
The newly inaugurated office will provide a wide range of consular services, including those related to education, employment, tourism, and medical treatment, in addition to other administrative services. The initiative was coordinated with Osama Hammad, head of the government appointed by the House of Representatives, and aims to bring consular services closer to Libyan citizens and legally resident foreigners.
Atalayar described the step as “unprecedented,” noting that it reflects Spain’s policy of expanding access to consular services and improving their quality. The magazine added that the opening of the office is also a clear indication of the security and stability prevailing across cities and regions in eastern Libya.
According to the report, the move also highlights the positive development of bilateral relations between Libya and Spain—two countries linked by long-standing ties based on cooperation and mutual respect. The reopening of Spain’s consular footprint in Benghazi is seen as part of broader efforts to strengthen diplomatic engagement and practical cooperation between the two sides.
From now on, individuals wishing to obtain a Spanish Schengen visa will be required to submit their applications and complete all necessary procedures at the newly accredited office in Benghazi. The consular office was officially opened last week in the presence of Spanish Consul Manuel Payina Pedrosa.
The office is located at Al-Jawhara Mall in the Sidi Hussein district of Benghazi, providing a central and accessible location for applicants. Observers view the move as a practical step that could ease travel procedures, encourage academic and professional exchanges, and contribute to closer people-to-people ties between Libya and Spain.
