How to Get Spanish Nationality: Requirements and Process
Learn how to obtain Spanish nationality. Discover residency requirements, required documents, and the complete application process for Spanish citizenship.
Obtaining Spanish nationality is the ultimate step for many expats living in Spain. This guide explains the requirements, process, and timeline for becoming a Spanish citizen.
Residency Requirements for Spanish Citizenship
The standard requirement for Spanish citizenship is 10 years of legal residency in Spain. However, reduced periods apply for certain nationalities:
- 1 year: Born in Spain, refugees, or those from Ibero-American countries
- 2 years: Nationals of Andorra, Philippines, Equatorial Guinea, Portugal, or Sephardic Jews
- 5 years: Refugees or those who obtained asylum
Fast-Track Options
You may qualify for expedited Spanish citizenship if you:
- Were born in Spain
- Are married to a Spanish citizen (1 year of marriage + 1 year residency)
- Are from a former Spanish colony
- Have Sephardic Jewish ancestry
Required Documents
To apply for Spanish nationality, you'll need:
- Birth certificate (apostilled and translated)
- Criminal record certificate from Spain and your home country
- Proof of residency (Certificado de Empadronamiento)
- CCSE certificate (Constitutional and Sociocultural Knowledge of Spain)
- DELE A2 certificate (Spanish language proficiency)
- Valid passport and NIE
The CCSE and DELE Exams
Two exams are mandatory for Spanish citizenship:
- CCSE: Tests knowledge of Spanish government, history, and culture (€85)
- DELE A2: Proves basic Spanish language proficiency (€130)
Exemptions apply for citizens of Spanish-speaking countries and those over 65.
Application Process
- Verify you meet residency requirements
- Pass CCSE and DELE exams
- Gather all required documents
- Submit application at the Civil Registry
- Wait for approval (typically 1-2 years)
- Take the oath of allegiance
- Receive your Spanish passport
Dual Citizenship Considerations
Spain generally requires you to renounce your previous citizenship, except for nationals of Ibero-American countries, Andorra, Philippines, Equatorial Guinea, and Portugal who can maintain dual citizenship.