Thinking about becoming a Spanish citizen? You’re not alone. For many, the path to Spanish citizenship can feel confusing and long. So, what’s the fastest way to obtain Spanish citizenship?
With this guide, you’ll learn about:
– The pros and cons of each path to citizenship
– Tips for speeding up the application process
– Common mistakes to avoid along the way
By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly which pathway to choose and how to go from resident to Spanish citizen in the least time possible.
Spanish Citizenship at a Glance
Spanish citizenship isn’t just about acquiring a passport—it’s a gateway to an enriched lifestyle with the freedom to live, work, and travel within the European Union. However, depending on your personal goals and background, Spanish citizenship may or may not be the best fit for your situation. In this section, we’ll look at some of the unique benefits of citizenship, along with a comparison to permanent residency, to help you decide if this is the right path.
Benefits of Spanish Citizenship
- Freedom of Movement: As a Spanish citizen, you can live and work freely in any EU country, as well as travel visa-free to over 190 countries. This is a powerful advantage for those looking to expand their career, study, or retire across Europe.
- Access to Quality Healthcare and Education: Spain offers a high-quality, affordable healthcare system and numerous reputable universities, which you can enjoy as a Spanish citizen.
- Right to Vote: As a citizen, you gain the right to participate in Spanish elections and help shape the future of the country.
- Tax and Business Opportunities: Citizenship allows you to enjoy Spain’s relatively favorable tax policies and gives you the freedom to start and operate a business within Spain and the EU.
Spanish Citizenship vs. Permanent Residency
While citizenship offers significant advantages, it’s essential to weigh these against permanent residency, which is also a viable option. Here’s how they compare:
For some, permanent residency might be enough, as it grants nearly all the same rights as citizenship, minus the ability to vote. However, if you’re seeking a long-term connection with Spain, the benefits of citizenship may be worth pursuing.
Overview of Citizenship Pathways
If you’ve decided Spanish citizenship is right for you, the next step is understanding the available pathways. Spain offers multiple routes to citizenship, each with its own set of requirements, timelines, and conditions. Below, we summarize each method, highlighting key differences to help you choose the fastest option based on your personal circumstances.
Each pathway has unique advantages, so understanding your options in-depth will help you select the most efficient and suitable route.
Method 1 – Citizenship by Marriage
One of the quickest routes to Spanish citizenship is through marriage to a Spanish citizen. While marrying a Spanish national doesn’t automatically grant you citizenship, it does significantly shorten the residency requirement for eligibility. Let’s break down how this process works and the steps involved.
Eligibility and Requirements
To qualify for citizenship by marriage, you need to meet the following criteria:
- Marriage to a Spanish Citizen: The marriage must be legally recognized in Spain. If you married outside of Spain, make sure your marriage is registered with the Spanish authorities.
- Residency Requirement: You must have lived with your Spanish spouse in Spain for at least one year on a valid residence permit. This year of residency must be continuous and uninterrupted.
- Good Conduct and Integration: You’ll need to provide evidence of good civic behavior, such as a clean criminal record, and pass the Spanish language and cultural exams (DELE A2 and CCSE) unless you’re exempt.
Application Process
- Gather Documentation: Start by assembling key documents, such as your marriage certificate (translated if necessary), proof of residency, a valid passport, and your NIE (Foreigner Identification Number).
- Apply for Residency: If you haven’t done so already, apply for residency as a family member of an EU citizen, which grants you the right to live and work in Spain.
- Submit Your Citizenship Application: After completing one year of residency, you can submit your application at the local Civil Registry or online. Submitting online can often result in a faster processing time.
- Complete the Exams: If required, take the DELE A2 (language) and CCSE (cultural) exams through the Cervantes Institute. Preparation materials and practice exams are widely available to help you succeed.
- Oath of Allegiance: Once your application is approved, you’ll need to take an oath of allegiance to the Spanish Constitution.
Timeline and Tips
In total, this process typically takes 1-2 years, depending on application processing times in your region. Submitting online can expedite the timeline, and registering your marriage in Spain ahead of time can also help avoid delays.
Method 2 – Citizenship by Descent (Family Reunification)
For those with Spanish ancestry, the pathway to citizenship by descent can be both fast and straightforward. Spain recognizes the “right of blood” (jus sanguinis), which allows descendants of Spanish citizens to apply for nationality without fulfilling a long residency requirement. This route, recently expanded by the Ley de Nietos (Grandchildren’s Law) and Democratic Memory Law, offers an efficient option for many individuals with Spanish roots.
Eligibility and Requirements
To qualify for citizenship by descent, you’ll need to meet one of the following criteria:
- Parent or Grandparent of Spanish Origin: If one of your parents or grandparents was Spanish, you may be eligible to apply directly. This includes individuals whose Spanish ancestors were forced into exile during the Spanish Civil War or under the Franco dictatorship.
- Children Adopted by Spanish Citizens: If you were adopted by a Spanish citizen before the age of 18, you’re eligible to apply.
- New Democratic Memory Law Eligibility: The 2022 Democratic Memory Law allows children and grandchildren of Spaniards who lost their nationality due to exile or discrimination to apply for citizenship. This also covers descendants of Spanish women who lost citizenship by marrying a foreigner before the 1978 Constitution.
If you want to know the answers to the most asked questions about the Ley de Memoria Democrática, make sure to watch this video:
Application Process
- Gather Ancestry Documentation: You’ll need proof of your Spanish lineage, such as birth certificates or Spanish passports of your ancestors, along with your own identification documents.
- Provide Evidence of Residency (if applicable): If required, show proof of one year of legal residency in Spain, especially for cases under the Democratic Memory Law.
- Submit Your Application: Applications can be submitted at a local Civil Registry office or through a Spanish consulate if you reside outside of Spain.
- Take the Oath of Allegiance: After approval, you’ll take an oath of allegiance to the Spanish Constitution to finalize your citizenship.
Timeline and Tips
For individuals who meet the eligibility criteria, this pathway can take as little as 1-2 years, with the timeline often depending on the availability of ancestry documentation and local processing times. The Democratic Memory Law has specific application deadlines, so it’s crucial to check the current requirements to ensure you don’t miss out.
Method 3 – Citizenship by Residency
Citizenship by residency is one of the most common pathways for foreigners who have been living in Spain for an extended period. While it requires a longer commitment, it’s a viable option for those who aren’t eligible through marriage or descent. The residency period varies depending on your nationality and individual circumstances, offering reduced timeframes for certain groups.
Eligibility and Residency Requirements
The general residency requirement for Spanish citizenship is 10 years of continuous, legal residency. However, exceptions reduce this time under certain conditions:
- Refugees: 5 years of continuous residency.
- Latin American Nationals, Andorrans, Filipinos, Equatorial Guineans, and Portuguese: Only 2 years of residency required.
- Special Circumstances (e.g., born in Spain, married to a Spanish citizen): Only 1 year required for eligibility.
It’s important to note that only time spent on certain residence permits counts towards citizenship eligibility. Temporary stays (like those on a student visa) do not qualify, nor does time spent in Spain illegally. Additionally, applicants must not have left the country for long or frequent periods, as this could reset the residency clock.
Application Process
- Prepare Residency Documentation: Gather records to prove your continuous residency, including residency permits, empadronamiento (registration with the town hall), and tax records.
- Pass the Required Exams: Unless exempt, you must complete the DELE A2 (Spanish language test) and CCSE (cultural test) through the Cervantes Institute. Many resources are available to help you study and practice.
- Submit Your Application: Applications can be submitted at the Civil Registry or online through the Ministry of Justice portal for a quicker response.
- Await Approval and Take the Oath: Once your application is approved, you’ll be required to take an oath of allegiance to Spain.
Timeline and Tips
The overall process typically takes around 1-3 years after meeting the residency requirement, as application review times vary based on region and workload. Submitting your application online and ensuring all documents are accurate and complete can help avoid delays. For applicants who need to minimize processing time, consulting with an immigration lawyer may be beneficial.
ICAM’s Accelerated Citizenship Approvals
In exceptional cases, citizenship decisions have been granted in as little as five months through the ICAM (Madrid Bar Association). These accelerated cases demonstrate the benefits of thorough application preparation and efficient processing channels, particularly for individuals who meet specific residency and professional requirements.
In an impressive example of expedited processing, Sterna Abogados successfully obtained Spanish citizenship approvals for two clients in just five months by utilizing the Madrid Bar Association’s (ICAM) pathway. The two approved cases, shown below, highlight the potential of working closely with expert legal teams to navigate Spain’s citizenship channels efficiently.
Case 1 (Approved in 5 months):
Case 2 (Approved in 5 months):
Watch Ainhoa Manero’s full interview about Spanish Citizenship by residence!
In an interview with Ainhoa Manero, director of Sterna Abogados, we dive deep into the eligibility criteria, visa options, and critical steps to ensure a smooth application. In this video, Ainhoa shares insights on topics ranging from residency requirements and acceptable absences to the key documentation you’ll need. Watch the video below to hear her expert advice and gain a clearer understanding of the citizenship by residency process.
Method 4 – Citizenship by Investment (Golden Visa)
The Golden Visa program offers a pathway to Spanish citizenship through investment, often appealing to those who can commit financial resources in exchange for residency and, eventually, citizenship. While the investment option doesn’t provide immediate citizenship, it grants residency rights that can lead to citizenship after a 10-year residency period.
Eligibility and Investment Options
To qualify for a Golden Visa, you must make a significant financial investment in Spain. Here are the main options:
- Real Estate: Purchase property valued at €500,000 or more.
- Capital Investment: Deposit €1 million into a Spanish bank, invest €1 million in Spanish stocks, or contribute €2 million in government bonds.
- Business Investment: Start or invest in a business project in Spain that creates jobs, promotes innovation, or contributes to economic growth.
After making one of these investments, you and your family can obtain residency in Spain. The Golden Visa is renewable every two years and doesn’t require full-time residence in Spain, though if your goal is citizenship, you’ll need to reside in the country for at least six months each year over the 10-year period.
Application Process
- Make the Investment: Finalize your investment and gather documentation proving ownership or capital commitment.
- Apply for the Golden Visa: Submit your application through a Spanish consulate or embassy in your home country or directly in Spain. Processing times are generally quick, often within 20 days.
- Maintain Residency: To eventually qualify for citizenship, you’ll need to reside in Spain for at least half of each year over the 10 years.
- Apply for Citizenship: After completing the 10-year residency requirement, you can apply for citizenship following the same process as other residency-based applicants, including the language and cultural exams.
Pros and Cons of the Investment Pathway
Pros:
– Quick approval of the initial residency.
– Immediate family members can also obtain residency.
– The investment can often be recouped after obtaining citizenship.
Cons:
– High financial requirement.
– Long residency commitment for citizenship (10 years).
– The need to renounce original citizenship for non-Latin American, non-Philippine, and non-Portuguese applicants.
Timeline and Tips
The Golden Visa process itself is fast, with initial residency often granted within a month. However, the pathway to citizenship remains one of the longest, requiring 10 years of residency. This option is best for those who see Spain as a long-term investment and have the means to sustain the financial commitment.
It is important to mention that, at the time of writing this article (November 2024), the Golden Visa program plans to end the real estate investment part of the visa. To learn more, we recommend watching this video:
Method 5 – Citizenship by Discretionary Conferral
Citizenship by discretionary conferral is a unique route where the Spanish government grants citizenship to individuals under exceptional circumstances. This pathway is uncommon and typically reserved for those with extraordinary contributions to Spanish society in areas such as culture, science, sports, or humanitarian efforts.
Eligibility and Requirements
To qualify for discretionary citizenship, you must demonstrate exceptional contributions or circumstances that warrant the government’s special consideration. Common reasons include:
- Cultural or Scientific Contributions: Individuals who have significantly contributed to Spanish culture, scientific research, or arts may be eligible.
- Humanitarian or Charitable Work: Those engaged in meaningful humanitarian work benefiting Spain or promoting Spanish interests abroad may be considered.
- Sports Achievements: Exceptional athletes who represent Spain in international competitions may qualify.
While these are typical scenarios, eligibility remains flexible and is assessed on a case-by-case basis. Law 12/2015 also provides a special discretionary pathway for individuals of Sephardic Jewish descent who can prove ties to Spain and demonstrate a historical connection.
Application Process
- Prepare Documentation: Gather evidence of your exceptional circumstances, such as awards, letters of recommendation, or records of achievements.
- Submit a Formal Petition: Applications are typically filed through the Ministry of Justice, and each case is reviewed individually. An official recommendation from a reputable institution (like a Spanish university or government agency) can strengthen your case.
- Await Government Decision: Since this process is discretionary, there’s no guaranteed timeline, and decisions may take several months or even years. Each case is subject to approval by Royal Decree.
Timeline and Tips
While there’s no set timeline for this pathway, discretionary cases often undergo extensive review, so patience is key. To increase your chances, consult with legal experts or advocacy groups familiar with the Spanish government’s processes, and ensure your application is thoroughly documented.
This method, though rare, offers an alternative route to citizenship for individuals with a unique connection to Spain or exceptional achievements recognized by Spanish institutions.
Ready to start your journey to Spanish citizenship? Sterna Abogados offers expert guidance to help you avoid common mistakes, streamline your application, and get results. Reach out today at info@sternaabogados.com for personalized support every step of the way
Key Requirements for All Spanish Citizenship Pathways
Regardless of the pathway you choose, there are some essential requirements and documents that all applicants must prepare and submit to successfully obtain Spanish citizenship. Meeting these requirements is crucial, as any missing or incorrect documentation can delay your application or even result in denial. Let’s go over these common requirements to help you prepare.
General Documentation Checklist
- Valid Passport and NIE (Foreigner Identification Number): A current passport from your country of origin and your NIE are mandatory for identification purposes.
- Proof of Residency: Documents verifying your time spent legally in Spain, such as empadronamiento records from the local town hall, rental agreements, or tax documents, help establish your residency period.
- Criminal Background Check: Applicants need to show a clean criminal record from their country of origin as well as from Spain. Minor infractions may be acceptable, but serious criminal records can lead to application denial.
- Language and Cultural Exams (DELE A2 and CCSE): Unless you’re exempt (e.g., nationals from Latin American countries), you must pass the DELE A2 Spanish language test and the CCSE cultural knowledge test. The Cervantes Institute offers these exams regularly, and applicants can access study materials and practice exams online.
- Birth and Marriage Certificates: If applying through family ties or marriage, you’ll need certified copies of your birth certificate and marriage certificate. These documents must be translated into Spanish if issued in another language.
- Proof of Sufficient Economic Means: This requirement ensures that you have the financial stability to live in Spain without reliance on government assistance. Bank statements, employment contracts, or proof of investment often satisfy this requirement.
- Payment of Application Fees: As of 2024, the standard application fee is approximately €104. Additional costs for document translation, notarization, and exam fees may apply.
Special Tips for Meeting Requirements
– Submit Documents Online: Whenever possible, submit documents via the Spanish Ministry of Justice’s online platform. Online submission often reduces processing times and offers a more convenient way to track your application.
– Stay Up-to-Date with the Empadronamiento: Keeping your registration with the local town hall current (and renewing it as needed) can help streamline your residency verification.
– Prepare Early for the Exams: Both DELE and CCSE exams are accessible but require preparation. Practice materials and sample questions are available on the Cervantes Institute’s website, and taking the exams early in your residency process can help prevent delays.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Applying for Spanish citizenship can be a lengthy process, and even small mistakes can cause significant delays or denials. To help you avoid common pitfalls, here’s a list of mistakes applicants often make and how to prevent them.
Common Pitfalls
- Insufficient Residency Documentation: Many applicants fail to provide adequate proof of continuous residency in Spain. It’s essential to keep a thorough record of your time in the country, including empadronamiento registration, rental agreements, utility bills, and tax returns. Gaps in residency records or time spent outside of Spain beyond the allowed limit can result in application denial.
- Incomplete Application: Missing documents are a primary reason for delays. Double-check all required paperwork before submission, including translations and notarizations for documents not originally in Spanish. Keep in mind that Spanish authorities are strict about documentation standards.
- Failing the Language or Cultural Exams: Many applicants underestimate the DELE A2 and CCSE exams. Preparing early and using the official practice resources provided by the Cervantes Institute can improve your chances of passing on the first attempt. Re-taking these exams means additional time and fees.
- Applying with an Expired Passport or NIE: Ensure that all personal identification documents, including your passport and NIE, are up-to-date at the time of submission. Submitting an application with expired identification can lead to delays or even rejection.
- Criminal Records or Civic Infractions: Even minor infractions can complicate your application. While not all infractions are grounds for denial, any significant criminal history can result in automatic rejection. It’s best to clear any outstanding issues before applying.
- Ignoring Online Application Tracking: Spain’s Ministry of Justice offers an online platform, “cómo va lo mío”, where applicants can track their application status in real time. Many applicants miss important updates and deadlines simply by not checking their application status regularly.
- Neglecting to Renounce Original Citizenship (if required): Spain generally requires new citizens to renounce their original nationality unless they are from certain countries. Ensure that you understand whether this requirement applies to you and take action if necessary.
How to Avoid These Mistakes
– Use a Checklist: Keep track of all required documents and steps using a checklist to ensure nothing is missed.
– Consult a Professional: If your application involves complex circumstances, such as previous legal issues or incomplete documentation, consider consulting with an immigration lawyer to review your file.
– Monitor Application Progress: Stay on top of your application by regularly checking the online status. This allows you to address any issues immediately, preventing unnecessary delays.
Avoiding these common mistakes can make your citizenship journey smoother and significantly reduce your application processing time.
Summary and Final Tips
As you consider the best route to Spanish citizenship, it’s important to choose the pathway that aligns with your unique circumstances and goals. Whether you’re eligible through marriage, descent, investment, or residency, being well-prepared can make the journey to citizenship smoother and potentially faster. Here’s a quick recap of each pathway and some final advice to help you succeed.
Quick Recap of Citizenship Pathways
– Marriage: If married to a Spanish citizen, this is one of the quickest options, with only a 1-year residency requirement.
– Descent: For those with Spanish ancestry, the citizenship by descent pathway may allow you to apply with minimal residency requirements, especially under the new Democratic Memory Law.
– Residency: The general path for most applicants, requiring continuous legal residency of 1 to 10 years depending on your nationality or circumstances.
– Investment (Golden Visa): Although a longer path to citizenship, the Golden Visa provides a quick route to residency, with the option to apply for citizenship after 10 years.
– Discretionary Conferral: A rare option for individuals who have made exceptional contributions to Spain, often requiring special approval by Royal Decree.
Final Tips for a Successful Application
Start Preparing Early: Collecting documentation, especially proof of residency and ancestry, can take time. Begin gathering and organizing these documents as early as possible.
- Stay Informed About Law Changes: Spanish immigration laws and citizenship requirements are occasionally updated. Stay informed of any changes, especially if you’re applying under laws like the Ley de Nietos, which have deadlines.
- Practice for the Exams: For those required to take the DELE A2 and CCSE exams, preparation is key. Study resources are readily available, and practicing in advance will increase your chances of passing on the first try.
- Keep Your Documents Updated: Make sure that identification documents such as your passport and NIE are current throughout the application process. Expired documents can lead to delays or rejections.
- Consider Professional Assistance: Consulting an immigration lawyer can help ensure that your application is thorough and meets all legal requirements. This can be especially helpful for complex cases or those with unique eligibility circumstances.
By choosing the most appropriate pathway, preparing carefully, and avoiding common mistakes, you can streamline your journey to Spanish citizenship. The benefits of being a Spanish citizen are well worth the effort, providing you with the freedom to live, work, and travel throughout Europe while enjoying Spain’s high quality of life.
Conclusion
Obtaining Spanish citizenship is a rewarding goal that opens doors to a wealth of opportunities within Spain and across the European Union. By following this guide and choosing the right path, you can reach that goal more quickly and smoothly. Best of luck on your journey to becoming a Spanish citizen!
Ready to start your journey to Spanish citizenship? Sterna Abogados offers expert guidance to help you avoid common mistakes, streamline your application, and get results. Reach out today at info@sternaabogados.com for personalized support every step of the way