Services
Spanish Citizenship by Naturalization / Residency
About the service
What is the Spanish Citizenship by Naturalization / Residency
Spanish citizenship by residency is a legal pathway that allows foreign nationals to obtain Spanish nationality after living legally in Spain for a specified number of years.
In general, the standard requirement is 10 years of legal residence, although reduced periods apply depending on the applicant’s circumstances:
5 years → Refugees
2 years → Nationals of Ibero-American countries, Andorra, the Philippines, Equatorial Guinea, Portugal, or Sephardic origin
1 year → Specific cases, including:
- Individuals born in Spain
- Individuals married to a Spanish citizen
- Individuals born abroad to Spanish nationals
- Individuals under guardianship of a Spanish institution
Enjoy all the Benefits it has to offer
The benefits of Spanish Citizenship by Naturalization / Residency
Full EU Citizenship Rights
Full Spanish and European Union citizenship rights
Public Healthcare & Benefits
Access to public healthcare, education, and social benefits
Strong Global Passport
Access to one of the world’s strongest passports
Dual Citizenship Options
Possibility of dual citizenship in certain cases
Are you eligible?
Requirements to apply for a Spanish Citizenship by Naturalization / Residency
Legal residence in Spain
Applicants must have lived legally and continuously in Spain for the required period of time before applying.
Residency Period Requirements
The required period depends on the applicant’s situation:
10 years → General rule
5 years → Refugees
2 years → Nationals of Ibero-American countries, Andorra, the Philippines, Equatorial Guinea, Portugal, or Sephardic origin
1 year → Specific cases, including:
- Individuals born in Spain
- Individuals married to a Spanish citizen
- Individuals born abroad to Spanish nationals
- Individuals under guardianship of a Spanish institution
Integration Requirements (Exams)
Applicants must generally pass:
- DELE A2 exam (Spanish language proficiency)
- CCSE exam (knowledge of Spanish society and constitution)
Exemptions may apply in certain cases (e.g., Latin American nationals for DELE).
After Approval (Jura Process)
Once approved, applicants must:
- Take an oath of allegiance to the King and the Spanish Constitution
- Declare renunciation of their previous nationality (in some cases)
How can Marfour help you?
Applying for Spanish citizenship by residency requires careful planning, precise documentation, and strict compliance with legal requirements. Mistakes in residency calculation or documentation can lead to delays or rejection.
At Marfour International Law Firm, we manage the entire process for you, ensuring your application is accurate, compliant, and efficiently handled from start to finish.
Application Strategy and Planning
We guide you on the best timing to apply and help you prepare each stage of the process in advance to avoid unnecessary delays.
Document Preparation and Compliance
We ensure all required documents, including residency records and certificates, are accurate, complete, and compliant with Spanish legal standards.
Exam Guidance and Preparation
We advise you on the DELE and CCSE exams, including exemptions and timing, so you can meet all integration requirements smoothly.
Application Submission and Follow-Up
We manage the submission with the Ministry of Justice and monitor your application throughout the review process.
Support Until Final Resolution
We assist you through every step, including the approval stage, oath (Jura), and next steps toward obtaining your Spanish passport.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions about the Spanish Citizenship by Naturalization / Residency
How long do you need to live in Spain to get citizenship by residency?
The general requirement is 10 years of legal residence, although shorter periods apply depending on your nationality or personal circumstances.
Can I get Spanish citizenship after 2 years of living in Spain?
Yes, if you are from an eligible country such as those in Latin America, Portugal, or the Philippines, you may qualify after 2 years of legal residence.
Can I apply for Spanish citizenship after 1 year of residence?
Yes, in specific cases, such as being married to a Spanish citizen or being born in Spain.
What exams are required for Spanish citizenship by residency?
Most applicants must pass the DELE A2 Spanish language exam and the CCSE exam on Spanish culture and laws.
How do I apply for Spanish citizenship by residency?
Applications are submitted to the Spanish Ministry of Justice.
How long does it take to get Spanish citizenship by residency?
The government has up to 12 months to issue a decision, although processing times may be longer in practice.
Do I need to renounce my current nationality to become Spanish?
In some cases, yes. However, Spain allows dual citizenship with certain countries, and requirements may vary.
What documents are required for Spanish citizenship by residency?
You will need proof of legal residence, identification documents, birth certificates, criminal records, and properly legalized or translated documents.
What happens after my Spanish citizenship is approved?
You must complete the oath of allegiance (Jura) and register your nationality before applying for a Spanish passport.
What DELE level is required for Spanish citizenship?
You need to pass the DELE A2 exam