Spanish Nationality by Residence

The acquisition of Spanish nationality by residence requires, as a general rule, that the applicant has resided in Spain legally, continuously, and immediately prior to the submission of the application for a minimum period of ten (10) years.

Exceptions to the General Residence Period

The required period of residence may be reduced in the following cases:

• Five (5) years: For individuals who have been granted refugee status.

• Two (2) years: For nationals of Ibero-American countries, Andorra, the Philippines, Equatorial Guinea, Portugal, or individuals of Sephardic origin.

• One (1) year: In the following circumstances:

  • • Persons born in Spanish territory.

    • Those who failed to duly exercise their right to acquire Spanish nationality by option.

    • Individuals who, for a period of two consecutive years, have been legally subject to the guardianship, custody, or foster care of a Spanish citizen or institution (such guardianship or care must be based on a resolution issued by the competent public authority or judicial recognition).

    • Spouses of Spanish citizens, provided there is no legal or de facto separation at the time of application.

    • Widows or widowers of Spanish citizens, provided there was no legal or de facto separation at the time of the spouse’s death.

    • Individuals born outside of Spain whose father, mother, grandfather, or grandmother were originally Spanish.

Additional Eligibility Requirements

In addition to the residence requirement, the applicant must demonstrate:

• Good civic conduct.

• A sufficient degree of integration into Spanish society, typically assessed through the following:

  • The CCSE (constitutional and sociocultural knowledge of Spain) exam.

  • The DELE (Spanish language proficiency) exam, level A2 or higher (unless legally exempt).

Application Process

The application for nationality by residence must be submitted electronically via the Electronic Headquarters of the Spanish Ministry of Justice.

Legal Framework

• Royal Decree 1004/2015, of 6 November, approving the regulations governing the procedure for acquiring Spanish nationality by residence.

• Order JUS/1625/2016, of 30 September, on the administrative processing of nationality applications by residence.

• Law 19/2015, of 13 July, on administrative reform measures in the field of the Administration of Justice and the Civil Registry (Final Provision Seven).

We Can Assist You

Applying for Spanish nationality is a significant legal and personal step. At Landing in Spain, we are committed to guiding you through every stage of the process with professionalism and personalized attention.

If you are considering applying for Spanish nationality, please do not hesitate to contact us. We would be delighted to assist you.