Apply for
Spanish nationality

Applying for Spanish nationality by residence is a process by which a foreigner can acquire Spanish nationality after having resided in Spain for a certain period of time and fulfilling certain legal requirements.

Information on the procedure

Requirements

In order to apply for non-profit Spanish nationality in Spain, the following requirements must be met:

  1. Legal and continuous residence. To have resided legally in Spain for a minimum period that varies depending on the case (generally 10 years, although there are exceptions such as 5 years for refugees, 2 years for nationals of Latin American countries, Andorra, the Philippines, Equatorial Guinea or Portugal or Sephardic people, and 1 year for spouses of Spaniards).
  2. Good civic conduct. No criminal record in Spain or in the country of origin.
  3. Knowledge of the Spanish language. Passing the Spanish language proficiency test (level A2 or higher); citizens of Latin American countries are exempt from this requirement.
  4. Pass the exam on constitutional and socio-cultural knowledge of Spain (CCSE).

Estimated time

There is a maximum period of one year from the date of receipt of the application for Spanish nationality. If it is not resolved within this period, it is understood to be rejected by administrative silence.

For Spanish nationality to be approved, it is essential that legal residence is stable and continuous before and during the whole process. Any prolonged departure from Spain could be considered as grounds for refusal of nationality.

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