How to Obtain Spanish Nationality

If you are wondering how to obtain Spanish nationality because you want to become a Spanish citizen and obtain the coveted passport of the country, then you are in the right place. In this article, we will resolve all your doubts about Spanish nationality. We will guide you through the four options available to obtain it, detailing the documents and requirements necessary for each one, and we will explain the legal application process. Get ready to know how to take the first step towards your Spanish nationality.

What is Spanish nationality and how to acquire it

Spanish nationality is a right that allows you to live indefinitely in Spain and grants benefits such as the right to vote and free movement and work in the European Union. The most common way to obtain Spanish nationality is by birthright, as long as you were born in Spain and your parents are Spanish. However, there are other ways to obtain it, such as Spanish nationality by residence, by marriage, by descent, and by option. In this article, we will explore these avenues in detail.

Spanish nationality law

Spanish citizenship is governed by the Civil Code, which dates back to 1889. However, it has undergone modifications over time, such as those established in Royal Decree 1004/2005. These regulations affect the acquisition of Spanish nationality, and it is important to know them to follow the process properly.

Benefits and advantages of obtaining Spanish nationality

Obtaining Spanish nationality entails several benefits:

1. Simplification of procedures: By obtaining Spanish citizenship, you will navigate through Spanish bureaucracy more easily, avoiding additional steps and additional documents required for immigrants.
2. Right to vote: Long-term expatriates in Spain can access the right to vote in the country.
3. Free movement: As a Spanish citizen, you will have the right to enter freely into 183 countries with your visa upon arrival.
4. EU Passport: You will obtain the right to live and work anywhere in the European Union without restrictions.
5. Permanence in the EU: Since Spain does not plan to leave the European Union in the near future, these benefits are lasting and permanent.
6. 
   

Spanish nationality or permanent residency?, which is better?

If you have been living in Spain for several years and wish to stay long-term, you should consider whether to opt for Spanish nationality or permanent residency. Both options allow you to live in the country indefinitely, but there are key differences.

About permanent residency

Permanent residency is granted to those who have lived in Spain continuously for at least 5 years. This option is attractive as the living conditions are similar to those of Spanish citizenship. However, a significant disadvantage is that, to obtain Spanish nationality, you must renounce your original nationality, unless you are from Andorra, Portugal, Equatorial Guinea, the Philippines, or a Latin American country, in which case you can maintain dual nationality.

How to obtain Spanish nationality?: the 4 options

There are four main ways to obtain Spanish nationality:

1. Spanish nationality by residence: If you have legally lived in Spain for a specific period, you can apply for it through a naturalization process.
2. Spanish nationality by marriage: Nationality by marriage is an option for foreigners married to Spanish citizens who have legally resided in Spain for one year.
3. Spanish nationality by option: If you are a foreigner initiating the citizenship application process by residence and have children under 18 years old, they can also become Spanish citizens.
4. Spanish nationality by descent: Grandchildren of Spanish citizens can now apply for Spanish nationality under the new grandchildren's law.
5. 
   

Apply for Your Spanish Nationality Now


Spanish nationality application process: general requirements

The application process is divided into several stages:

1. Document preparation: Includes taking DELE A2 and CCSE exams.
2. Application submission and resolution.
3. Oath before the King of Spain and the Constitution.
4. Obtaining the passport and ID card at the local police station.
5. Requesting a certificate of concordance to verify your identity.
6. 
   

Documents needed for Spanish nationality application

It is essential to prepare the appropriate documents, which may vary depending on the type of application, but generally include:

• Identification documents: passport and NIE.
• Valid residence permit.
• Certificate of criminal record.
• Birth certificate.
• Marriage certificate (if applicable).
• Current and historical census.
• DELE A2 and CCSE exam certificates.
• Proof of payment of the corresponding fee.
• Evidence of sufficient financial means.

Spanish nationality exams: DELE A2 and CCSE

To obtain Spanish nationality, you must pass two exams:

1. DELE A2 (language exam).
2. CCSE (cultural test).

These exams assess your knowledge of Spanish and Spanish culture.

Submission of the application

You can submit your application in person at the Civil Registry or online, through telematic means. The telematic route is recommended to save time and receive a faster response.

Waiting time

The process of obtaining Spanish nationality generally takes 2 to 3 years. However, there is a useful tip to significantly speed up the process.

Once you submit your application, the government has one year to issue a response. During this period, your file will go through various stages. If you do not receive a response after 12 months, you can appeal and request a review. Combining this with the appointment for the oath, you can obtain Spanish nationality in just 1 year and a half.

Loss of nationality

It is important to note that it is possible to lose Spanish nationality once obtained. If you move abroad and do not use it within 3 years, the Spanish consulate could initiate a withdrawal process. Therefore, it is essential to use it or make a declaration to maintain it.

Read related articles on our blog.

Clarify Your Doubts in Minutes