Quick Overview
| General Residency | 10 years of continuous legal residency |
| Fast Track | 2 years (Ibero-American countries, Philippines, Andorra, Portugal, Sephardic Jews) |
| By Marriage | 1 year of marriage + 1 year of residency in Spain |
| Exams | CCSE (culture) + DELE A2 (Spanish language) |
| Processing | 1-3 years after submission |
| Dual Citizenship | Allowed with Ibero-American countries, Philippines, Andorra, Portugal |
Spanish citizenship (nacionalidad) is the ultimate goal for many expats in Spain. It grants you full rights as a Spanish citizen, including an EU passport, voting rights, and the freedom to live and work anywhere in the European Union.
Routes to Spanish Citizenship
For a fuller comparison of the routes, read our complete guide to Spanish citizenship routes.
Citizenship by Residence
The most common route. After 10 years of continuous legal residency in Spain, you can apply for citizenship. This period is reduced to 2 years for citizens of Ibero-American countries, the Philippines, Equatorial Guinea, Andorra, Portugal, and Sephardic Jews.
Citizenship by Marriage
If you are married to a Spanish citizen, you can apply after just 1 year of marriage and 1 year of legal residency in Spain. The application requires a CCSE exam and DELE A2 language test.
Democratic Memory Law (Ley de Memoria Democratica)
The general application window under the Democratic Memory Law closed in October 2025. Applications lodged in time may still be processed, and qualifying consular appointment requests made in time may permit later personal submission under the applicable rules. Read our guide to Democratic Memory Law requirements and current status for the closed window, pending cases and protected appointments.
Requirements for Citizenship by Residence
- 10 (or 2) years of continuous legal residency
- Good civic conduct (no serious criminal record)
- Sufficient integration into Spanish society
- Pass CCSE exam (constitutional and sociocultural knowledge)
- Pass DELE A2 or higher Spanish language exam
- Renunciation of previous nationality (unless exempted)
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This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Each case is unique. Consult with a qualified immigration lawyer for advice tailored to your situation.