Obtaining Spanish nationality by residence is one of the most common ways to acquire citizenship. If you have been living legally in Spain for some time, this guide will help you learn about the requirements, deadlines and steps needed to start your application in 2025.
What is Spanish nationality by residence?
This is the procedure by which a foreign person can acquire Spanish nationality after residing legally in Spain for a certain period of time. This process is regulated by Article 22 of the Civil Code.
General requirements to apply for citizenship by residence
To submit your application, you must meet the following requirements:
- Legal and continuous residenceTo have resided in Spain legally, continuously and immediately prior to the application for a minimum period that varies according to the case.
- Good citizenshipNo criminal record in Spain or in your country of origin.
- Integration into Spanish societyDemonstrate a sufficient degree of integration, which is assessed by passing the CCSE tests and, in some cases, the DELE exam.
Required periods of residence
The minimum length of legal residence required varies according to the applicant's situation:
- 10 yearsGeneral term for most cases.
- 5 yearsFor persons who have been granted refugee status.
- 2 yearsFor nationals of Latin American countries, Andorra, Philippines, Equatorial Guinea, Portugal or persons of Sephardic origin.
- 1 yearIn specific cases, such as being born in Spain, being married to a Spanish citizen for at least one year, or having been under the guardianship of a Spanish citizen or institution for two years.
Required Documentation
When preparing your application, you will need to gather the following documentation:
- Application form duly completed.
- Alien Identity Card (TIE) and valid passport.
- Criminal record certificates from Spain and the country of origin.
- Certificate of census registration.
- Proof of financial means.
- Certificates of passing the CCSE and, if applicable, DELE tests.
Required tests
- CCSE TestThe CCSE test evaluates the constitutional and sociocultural knowledge of Spain.
- DELE A2 Test: Demonstrates a basic knowledge of the Spanish language. Nationals of Spanish-speaking countries and other specific exceptions are exempt from this test.
Application Process
- Preparation of documentationGather all required documents.
- Presentation of the applicationYou can do it online through the Electronic Headquarters of the Ministry of Justice or at the corresponding Civil Registry.
- Follow-up of the file: Check the status of your application on the Ministry of Justice's "How is it going?" platform.
- Resolution and oathOnce the application is approved, you must take the oath or promise of loyalty to the King and obedience to the Spanish Constitution and laws.
Useful tips
- Make sure that your residence in Spain has been legal and continuous for the required period.
- Verify that all your documents are up to date and properly legalized or apostilled.
- Prepare yourself adequately for the CCSE and DELE tests, using the official materials available.
- Consider consulting with an immigration lawyer to ensure that your application meets all the requirements.
