Citizenship

How it works

Spanish citizenship by naturalization allows non-EU individuals who have legally resided in Spain for a certain number of years to become full Spanish citizens. Citizenship grants full rights, including the ability to vote, obtain a Spanish passport, and live and work across the EU without restrictions. The process requires a clean legal record, stable residence history, and passing integration tests.

Reside legally for the required number of years: Standard residency requirement is 10 years, but it’s reduced to 2 years for citizens of Latin America, Andorra, the Philippines, Equatorial Guinea, and Sephardic Jews.
Prove integration into Spanish society: Applicants must pass two exams — the DELE A2 Spanish language test and the CCSE (constitutional/cultural test) — and show cultural and social ties to Spain.
Apply through the Ministry of Justice: Submit your application online or in person with full documentation. Processing can take 1–2 years or more.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Advantages

Spanish citizenship provides full legal rights in Spain and the European Union, with no need to renew visas or residence permits. It offers true permanence and freedom of movement.

Disadvantages

While rewarding, the citizenship process is long, strict, and often slow-moving. Applicants must be well-prepared and fully integrated into Spanish society.

Documentation Required

These are the foundational documents nearly every applicant must prepare.

Citizenship application form

Filled and signed

Passport-Size Photo

Recent, biometric, white background, no accessories.

Valid Passport

At least 6 months valid, 2 blank pages.

Birth Certificate

Notarized and apostilled and translated to Spanish if needed.

Criminal Record Certificates

From country of origin, Spain, and other countries of residence (legalized/apostilled and translated).

DELE A2 Certificate and CGSE

Proof of passing Constitutional and Sociocultural Knowledge test.

Step-by-Step Process Overview

This visual guide walks you through each step of the process in a simple and easy-to-understand way. It shows how everything fits together, so you always know what’s happening and what to expect next.

Important notes about double citizenship

Spain does allow dual citizenship in certain cases, but with specific conditions—especially for individuals from non-Hispanic countries. If you acquire Spanish citizenship while keeping your original (non-Hispanic) nationality, you’re generally required to renew or confirm your intention to retain Spanish citizenship every 3 years.