Published: 15 January 2025, 07:52 am
|||Spain offers multiple pathways for individuals seeking citizenship, each tailored to different circumstances and backgrounds. From leveraging family heritage to meeting specific residency requirements, the process can vary in complexity and duration.
This guide provides a clear and concise overview of the most accessible ways to secure Spanish citizenship in 2025. Whether you’re considering options like naturalization, citizenship through marriage, or programs such as Spain’s Golden Visa, understanding the steps involved is essential for a successful application.
What is Spanish Citizenship?
Spanish citizenship is a legal status that grants individuals the same rights and responsibilities as Spanish-born citizens. It allows you to live, work, and travel freely across Spain and the European Union, vote in elections, and access public benefits.
Spanish nationality law
Spanish nationality is governed by the country’s Civil Code, a foundational legal document first published in 1889. Over time, authorities have introduced various amendments that influence the processes for acquiring citizenship. These changes are detailed in the Royal Decree 1004/2005.
Spanish Dual Citizenship
To become a Spanish citizen, you typically need to renounce your current nationality in favor of Spanish citizenship. However, there are exceptions for people from Spanish-speaking countries in Latin America, Andorra, the Philippines, and Equatorial Guinea, as well as Sephardic Jews, who can keep their original nationality. Countries like the Philippines, Andorra, Portugal, Cuba, Peru, Honduras, Mexico, France, and Uruguay do not offer exceptions, so applicants from these nations must give up their previous citizenship when applying for Spanish citizenship.
Spanish Citizenship vs. Permanent Residency
If you are planning to settle in Spain, it’s important to know the difference between Spanish citizenship and permanent residency. Here is a quick comparison to help you decide the best way to obtain Spanish citizenship:
| Features | Spanish Citizenship | Permanent Residency |
| Voting Rights | Yes | No |
| EU Passport | Yes | No |
| Renewal Requirement | No | Every 5 years |
| Live in Spain | Yes | Yes |
| Eligibility | 10 years of residency | 5 years of continuous legal residence |
| Family Rights | Can pass citizenship to children | Can bring family members under specific conditions |
| Renouncing Original Nationality | Often required (exceptions apply) | Not required |
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Latest News around the Spanish Golden Visa Program (2025)
Spain’s Golden Visa Program, allowing non-EU nationals to obtain residency by investing in property, will end after April 3, 2025. This decision, announced in January 2025, follows approval by the Spanish Congress of Deputies to address the housing crisis.
Until the deadline, investors can still apply for the Golden Visa by purchasing property worth €500,000 or more. For those exploring ways to get Spanish citizenship, this is a key moment to act before the program’s closure.
Golden Visa vs. General Residency
The Golden Visa is a special program designed for non-EU nationals who invest in Spain, typically through property purchase. It provides quicker access to residency compared to the standard residency pathway, which requires living in Spain for an extended period (typically 10 years).
While both lead to residency, the Golden Visa is investment-driven and may not require as much time spent physically in Spain, whereas general residency mandates a longer stay and greater integration into Spanish society. Both paths, however, require applicants to meet certain criteria for eventual citizenship.
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How to Get Spanish Citizenship?
There are several paths for obtaining Spanish citizenship:
1. Citizenship by Option:
Available to those who have Spanish by parents or guardians or were adopted by Spanish nationals. Also applicable for children of those who lost Spanish nationality and later seek it.
2. Citizenship by Residency:
In Spain, the standard residency requirement for citizenship is 10 years. However, refugees can apply after 5 years, citizens of Latin American countries, Andorra, Equatorial Guinea, the Philippines, or Portugal after 2 years, and spouses or descendants of Spanish citizens after just 1 year.
3. Spanish Citizenship by Origin or Birth:
Eligible if born to a Spanish parent, in Spain to foreign parents (with exceptions), or adopted by a Spaniard.
4. Spanish Citizenship by Marriage:
Married individuals can apply after one year of residency but must renounce their original nationality.
5. Citizenship through Grandchildren’s Law (Ley de Nietos):
Grants nationality to grandchildren of Spanish citizens.
Each of these options offers different ways to get Spanish citizenship, with varying requirements and timelines. Among these, the option of Spanish citizenship by investment, has been growing in popularity. Let’s explore why this route could be an attractive choice for many.
Spanish Citizenship by residency
Pros of Spanish Citizenship by residency
- Live, work, and study in any EU country
- Access to Spain’s healthcare and education systems
- Right to vote in Spanish elections
- Visa-free travel to numerous countries, including all EU member states
- Family reunification opportunities
- Long-term stability and security within the EU
Cons of Spanish Citizenship by residency
- Long residency requirement (up to 10 years for most applicants)
- Potential requirement to renounce previous citizenship
- Worldwide tax obligations for Spanish citizens
- Complex and bureaucratic application process
- Language and integration requirements for applicants
How to Obtain Spanish Nationality in One Year or Less?
- Children of Spanish Nationals: If you are the child of a Spanish citizen, you can apply for citizenship at any age before 21, without a one-year residency requirement.
- Born in Spain: If you were born in Spain and your home country doesn’t grant nationality to children born abroad, you can apply for citizenship after one year of residency.
- Spanish Spouse: If married to a Spanish citizen, you can apply for citizenship after one year of residing together in Spain.
- Legal Guardianship: Individuals under the guardianship, legal representation, or custody of a Spanish citizen or institution for two years can also apply for citizenship after one year of residency.
What Are the Requirements and Documentation for Spanish Citizenship?
To apply for Spanish citizenship, you must meet specific requirements and submit the necessary documents:
Requirements:
- Residency: Typically, 10 years of legal residency (exceptions apply).
- Clean Criminal Record: No criminal history in Spain or your home country and show good civic behavior;
- Language Proficiency: DELE A2 and CCSE exam certificates
- Financial Stability: Proof of self-support.
Required Documentation:
- A valid passport and NIE.
- Evidence of legal residence in Spain, such as a long-term rental agreement or rental payment receipts (Census certificate (“padrón”) and past census records)
- A criminal record certificate issued by your home country’s authorities.
- A medical certificate, if not previously submitted.
- Documentation confirming access to health coverage during your stay in Spain.
- Marriage, divorce, or other marital status-related documents, translated into Spanish if necessary.
How to Apply for Spanish Citizenship?
Each pathway to Spanish citizenship has its own unique set of requirements and steps. Whether applying through residency, marriage, descent, birth in Spain, or exceptional naturalization, the process varies in terms of eligibility, documentation, and waiting times.
How Long Does It Take to Obtain Spanish Nationality?
In general, obtaining Spanish nationality can take anywhere from several months to a few years, depending on the pathway you choose. Residency-based applications typically take 1 to 3 years after meeting the required residency period, while other routes like marriage or descent may be faster, usually taking a year or so. The process can vary based on factors such as the type of application, documentation, and the efficiency of local authorities.
Application Fees for Spanish Citizenship
The application fees for Spanish citizenship vary depending on the type of application and the applicant’s specific circumstances. On average, the fees range from €100 to €200 for standard applications, such as those based on residency or marriage. However, fees can differ by region and may be subject to change. For applications related to exceptional naturalization, additional fees may apply, and you may need to pay for supporting documents such as language proficiency tests. Always check with the local Civil Registry or authorities for the most up-to-date and specific fee details.
Final Thoughts
Getting Spanish citizenship in 2025 can be a great opportunity, with various ways to apply depending on your situation. Whether through residency, marriage, descent, or investment, each path has its benefits. It’s important to choose the one that fits your needs and understand the requirements. With careful planning, you can take the right steps toward making Spain your new home.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Lose My Spanish Nationality?
Yes, you can lose your Spanish nationality due to renouncing it, acquiring another nationality improperly, or failing to maintain residency.
2. How Long Does it Take to Obtain Spanish Citizenship?
It usually takes 10 years of legal residency to obtain Spanish citizenship. However, this period drops to 1 year if married to a Spanish national or 2 years for citizens of certain Latin American countries. Once you apply, processing can take 1-2 years.
3. What is the Cost of Applying for Spanish Citizenship?
The application fee for Spanish citizenship generally falls between €600 and €100, depending on the type of application submitted. Additional expenses may arise from obtaining necessary documents.
4. Are There Language Proficiency Requirements for Spanish Citizenship?
Yes, applicants are required to demonstrate Spanish language skills at the A2 level, which reflects basic conversational ability. You may need to either pass a language test or provide proof of your language capabilities through an official certificate.
5. What Are Common Reasons for Application Rejection?
Applications can be denied for various reasons, including:
- Not meeting the residency requirements.
- Providing inaccurate or incomplete documentation.
- Having a criminal record in Spain or your country of origin.
- Failing to meet the required language proficiency level.
- Insufficient proof of financial stability or income.
6. How Long Does Spanish Citizenship Last?
Once granted, Spanish citizenship is permanent and does not expire. However, it can be revoked if you choose to voluntarily renounce it or acquire another nationality outside the legal framework.
