Obtaining Spanish Nationality: Key Points You Should Know
Obtaining Spanish nationality is a major step for many foreigners living in Spain. While the general rules are established by law, the requirements vary depending on personal circumstances, such as place of birth, nationality, and length of legal residence. Below, we explain the most important scenarios in a clear and practical way.
Spanish Nationality for Children Born in Spain
One of the most common cases concerns children born in Spain whose parents are not Spanish. These children can apply for Spanish nationality by residence, even if neither parent is Spanish, as long as the child has legally resided in Spain for at least one year. This one year period must be proven with a valid residence card:
The right to apply is based on having been born in Spain, not on the parents’ nationality. This is a very important advantage compared to adults, who usually need many more years of residence.
What If You Were Not Born in Spain?
If you were not born in Spain, the number of years of legal residence required depends on your nationality.
Some examples:
- 10 years: most nationalities (general rule)
- 5 years: refugees
- 2 years: citizens of Ibero-American countries, Andorra, the Philippines, Equatorial Guinea, Portugal or people of Sephardic origin
- 1 year: in specific cases, such as being married to a Spanish citizen, being born in Spain or being the child or grandchild of a Spanish citizen originally from Spain
Each case must be assessed individually, as small details can change the applicable timeframe.
Language and Knowledge Exams
Depending on your nationality, you may be required to pass official exams:
- CCSE exam (constitutional and sociocultural knowledge of Spain)
- DELE A2 Spanish language exam –
These exams are administered by the Instituto Cervantes, and official information and registration are available on their website.
Some applicants (such as nationals of Spanish-speaking countries or minors) may be exempt from one or both exams.
NIE Barcelona Is Now Handling Nationality Applications
The nationality process is regulated and formal, and applications must be submitted correctly to avoid long delays or rejections. At NIE Barcelona, we have recently started handling Spanish nationality applications, and we are here to help you through the entire process, from checking eligibility to submitting your application correctly.
If you have questions, doubts, or want to know whether you or your child can apply, just contact us. We’ll be happy to review your case and guide you step by step.
