What is Spanish Citizenship Application?
Spanish citizenship grants individuals the right to live, work, and study in Spain and across the European Union (EU) without restrictions. Spanish citizens enjoy full legal rights, access to healthcare and education, and visa-free travel to over 190 countries.
At Sahin Legal Consultancy, we assist individuals in applying for Spanish citizenship, ensuring they meet all legal and documentary requirements for a successful application.
Ways to Obtain Spanish Citizenship
There are five main routes to obtain Spanish nationality:
1️⃣ Citizenship by Residency – After 10 years of legal residence in Spain.
2️⃣ Citizenship by Marriage – After 1 year of marriage to a Spanish citizen.
3️⃣ Citizenship by Descent (Nationality by Origin) – If at least one parent is Spanish.
4️⃣ Citizenship by Birth in Spain – Children born in Spain to foreign parents (in certain cases).
5️⃣ Citizenship by Naturalization (Carta de Naturaleza) – Granted by the Spanish government in exceptional cases.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Spanish Citizenship
Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility
- Confirm that you meet the residency or family connection requirements.
- If applying by residency, ensure that you have lived legally in Spain for the required period.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
📌 Valid Passport and Residence Permit.
📌 Proof of Continuous Residency in Spain (empadronamiento, rental agreements, utility bills).
📌 Criminal Record Certificate (from both Spain and your home country).
📌 Marriage Certificate (if applying through marriage).
📌 Proof of Financial Stability (employment contract, tax returns, bank statements).
📌 DELE A2 Spanish Language Certificate (if not from a Spanish-speaking country).
📌 CCSE (Cultural Knowledge Exam) Certificate – Pass a Spanish culture and constitution test.
Step 3: Pass the Required Exams (If Applicable)
- DELE A2 Exam – A Spanish language test required for non-native Spanish speakers.
- CCSE Exam – A Spanish culture and constitution test required for most applicants.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
- Applications can be submitted online via the Spanish Ministry of Justice or at the Civil Registry Office.
- Pay the citizenship application fee (€104.05 as of 2024).
Step 5: Wait for Approval & Citizenship Ceremony
- Processing time varies but generally takes 1-3 years.
- If approved, attend the citizenship oath ceremony and receive your Spanish nationality certificate.
Processing Time for Spanish Citizenship
🕒 Naturalization by Residency – 1-3 years.
🕒 Citizenship by Marriage – 1-2 years.
🕒 Citizenship by Descent – 6-12 months.
🕒 Exceptional Cases (Carta de Naturaleza) – Varies.
Benefits of Spanish Citizenship
✔️ Live, Work & Study Anywhere in the EU – Full EU mobility rights.
✔️ Visa-Free Travel to Over 190 Countries – Access to the Schengen Area, the U.S., and more.
✔️ No More Residency Renewals – Permanent status without visa or permit restrictions.
✔️ Access to Spanish Healthcare & Education – Full benefits as a Spanish citizen.
✔️ Pass Citizenship to Children – Future generations inherit Spanish nationality.
Common Challenges & How to Overcome Them
❌ Delays in Processing
Solution: Ensure all documents are complete and correctly submitted. Consider legal representation for faster handling.
❌ Language & Cultural Exams
Solution: Enroll in Spanish language and citizenship test preparation courses.
❌ Lack of Proof of Residency
Solution: Maintain a clean record of taxes, rent payments, and official registrations in Spain.
❌ Criminal Record Issues
Solution: If applicable, seek legal guidance to address past legal infractions before applying.
FAQs About Spanish Citizenship
Q1: How long does it take to obtain Spanish citizenship?
- The process takes 1-3 years, depending on the method of application.
Q2: Can I have dual citizenship with Spain?
- Spain only allows dual nationality with specific countries (mainly Latin American countries, Andorra, the Philippines, and Portugal). Citizens from other countries may need to renounce their original nationality.
Q3: Do I need to take a language test for Spanish citizenship?
- Yes, unless you are from a Spanish-speaking country. The DELE A2 Spanish exam is required.
Q4: Can my children get Spanish nationality if I become a citizen?
- Yes, children under 18 can apply for Spanish citizenship once you obtain it.
Q5: Can I apply for Spanish citizenship if I live abroad?
- Only Spanish descendants or those applying through exceptional naturalization can apply from outside Spain.
Why Choose Sahin Legal Consultancy for Your Spanish Citizenship Application?
✅ Expert Legal Advice – We ensure your citizenship eligibility and application requirements are met.
✅ Comprehensive Document Review – We help prepare and verify all required documents.
✅ Exam Preparation Support – Assistance with DELE A2 Spanish language and CCSE cultural tests.
✅ Legal Representation for Complex Cases – Help with citizenship denials and appeals.
📞 Call us today to start your Spanish citizenship application!
📍 Based in London – Assisting clients worldwide with Spanish nationality services
