Services
Spanish Citizenship by Descent / Origin
About the service
What is the Spanish Citizenship by Descent / Origin
Spanish citizenship by origin is acquired at birth or through direct descent from a Spanish citizen. This pathway is primarily based on jus sanguinis (right of blood) and applies to individuals with a direct family connection to Spain.
In general, this applies to individuals who:
- Are born to a Spanish mother or father
- Are born in Spain under specific conditions
- Are adopted by a Spanish citizen
Specific Cases Include:
- Individuals born to a Spanish parent
- Individuals born in Spain to foreign parents, if at least one parent was also born in Spain
- Individuals born in Spain to foreign parents who are stateless or whose nationality laws do not grant nationality to the child
- Children under 18 adopted by a Spanish citizen
If the adoptee is over 18, they may apply for Spanish nationality within two years of the adoption becoming final.
Enjoy all the Benefits it has to offer
The benefits of Spanish Citizenship by Descent / Origin
Direct access to Spanish citizenship
Without prior residence in Spain
Access to 186 countries
Full Spanish and EU rights
Nationality transfer
It can be passed on to future generations
Access to
Healthcare, education and full civic rights in Spain
Are you eligible?
Requirements to apply for a Spanish Citizenship by Descent / Origin
Proof of Spanish Descent
Applicants must demonstrate their relationship to a Spanish citizen (typically a parent) through official documentation, such as birth certificates.
Legalization and Translation of Documents
All foreign documents must be properly legalized or apostilled and translated into Spanish when required.
Application Submission
The application must be submitted to the relevant Civil Registry in Spain or to a Spanish Consulate if applying from abroad.
Application review and decision
Authorities will review the application and issue a decision. Processing times vary depending on the Consulate or Civil Registry and the complexity of the case.
How can Marfour help you?
Applying for Spanish citizenship by descent requires precise documentation and careful legal analysis to ensure eligibility is properly demonstrated.
At Marfour International Law Firm, we guide you through the entire process, ensuring your application is accurate, compliant, and efficiently handled from start to finish.
Strategic Case Assessment
We assess your eligibility and determine the best approach based on your specific circumstances.
Document Review and Preparation
We assist you in gathering and preparing all required documentation in line with Spanish legal requirements.
Application Management
We guide you through submission and follow-up with the relevant authorities.
Ongoing Legal Support
Our team remains available throughout the process to answer questions and provide updates.
Problem Solving and Corrections
We assist in resolving issues and strengthening your application when needed.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions about the Spanish Citizenship by Descent / Origin
How can I get Spanish citizenship by descent or origin?
You can obtain Spanish citizenship by descent if you have a direct family connection to a Spanish citizen, typically through a parent, and can prove this relationship with official documentation.
Can I apply for Spanish citizenship by descent if I was born outside Spain?
Yes, you can apply for Spanish citizenship by descent even if you were born outside Spain, as long as one of your parents is a Spanish citizen.
Do I need to live in Spain to apply for Spanish citizenship by origin?
No, Spanish citizenship by origin does not require prior residence in Spain, as it is based on descent or place of birth under specific conditions.
What documents are required for Spanish citizenship by descent?
You will need documents proving your relationship to a Spanish citizen, such as birth certificates, as well as identification documents and any required legalized or apostilled documentation.
How long does it take to get Spanish citizenship by descent?
Processing times vary depending on the Civil Registry or Spanish Consulate handling your application, as well as the complexity of your case.
Do I need to apostille or legalize documents for Spanish citizenship?
Yes, foreign documents must be apostilled or legalized, depending on the country of origin, and translated into Spanish if required.
What happens after my Spanish citizenship is approved?
After approval, you must complete a declaration of allegiance to the King and the Spanish Constitution and register your nationality with the Spanish Civil Registry.
Do I have to renounce my current nationality to become Spanish?
In some cases, yes. However, exemptions apply to nationals of certain countries, including Latin American countries, Andorra, the Philippines, Equatorial Guinea, Portugal, France, and Sephardic Jews of Spanish origin.
When can I apply for a Spanish passport after citizenship is granted?
You can apply for a Spanish passport once your citizenship has been registered in the Civil Registry and, if applicable, in the Consular Registry.
What happens if you fail the DELE?
This option does not require the DELE exam.