Spanish citizenship on legal grounds: access to the benefits and rights of EU citizens

In most cases, Spain does not allow multiple citizenship. Exceptions are made for citizens of Latin American countries, Portugal, Andorra, the Philippines, and Equatorial Guinea, as well as for people with Sephardic Jewish roots. For all other categories, you must officially renounce your previous citizenship when accepting Spanish citizenship.

The package of documents includes a passport, birth and marriage certificates, proof of legal residence, certificates of no criminal record (from Spain and the country of origin), documents on income and tax payments, as well as DELE A2 and CCSE certificates. All documents must be translated into Spanish, legalized, and notarized.

Yes, minor children can obtain citizenship together with their parents. In addition, a child born in Spain to foreign parents is entitled to citizenship if certain conditions are met (permanent residence or loss of citizenship by the parents).

No, Spain does not grant citizenship directly for investment. The Golden Visa program entitles you to a residence permit when investing in real estate or the economy. After 5 years of residence, you can apply for permanent residence, and after 10 years, you can apply for citizenship.

Persons who have lived in Spain for a specified period of time, usually 10 years legally and continuously, can apply. For citizens of Latin American countries, Andorra, Portugal, the Philippines, and persons of Sephardic origin, the period is reduced to 2 years, and for spouses of Spanish citizens, to 1 year.

Yes, taking the oath is a mandatory final step. Only after this does citizenship become legally valid — you can apply for a passport and identity card (DNI).

All citizenship applications are processed by the Spanish Ministry of Justice (Ministerio de Justicia). The Cervantes Institute checks the documents and exams, and the final decision is approved by order of the Ministry. Once approved, the applicant's details are entered into the Civil Registry (Registro Civil).