Publication date: 09.06.2024
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How to get Spanish citizenship
Spain is indeed an attractive country to migrate and live in, with numerous advantages for foreigners. Spain has a developed economy and a variety of employment opportunities. There is a particularly high demand for labor in the fields of tourism, IT, finance and medicine. Spain has a high-quality public health system that is available to residents, as well as a wide range of private health services.
Of course, moving to another country can be a challenge and it is important to carefully consider all aspects before making a decision. However, for many people Spain becomes home because of its hospitality, cultural diversity and quality of life.
Obtaining Spanish citizenship can be achieved through various means, such as naturalization, marriage to a Spanish citizen, descent or investment. Here is a more detailed description of each of the methods:
The most common way to obtain Spanish citizenship is naturalization. Naturalization is one of the most common ways for foreigners to obtain Spanish citizenship. This process allows foreigners who already have resident status in Spain to apply for Spanish citizenship after meeting certain conditions.
The main conditions for naturalization include:
Usually you need to live in Spain legally and continuously for 10 years. Exceptions are made for citizens of some Latin American countries, the Philippines, Andorra, Equatorial Guinea and Portugal, for whom the term is reduced to 2 years. You must reside in Spain continuously, but short trips abroad are allowed.Knowledge of the Spanish language and integration into Spanish society.
A foreigner must prove that he/she has no criminal record and is a law-abiding citizen.
An appropriate level of Spanish is usually required, which can be verified by a test.
The foreigner must demonstrate his integration into Spanish society, which may include various aspects such as work, education, participation in the community, etc.
A foreigner must not have any refusals to enter Spain or other countries of the Schengen zone.
Citizenship through marriage
If you are married to a Spanish citizen, you can apply for citizenship after one year of legal residence in Spain.
Citizenship by descent
Children of Spanish citizens can automatically acquire citizenship. This can include both children born in Spain and abroad, provided that at least one parent is a Spanish citizen.
Family reunification program
A foreign national can obtain residency in Spain through the family reunification program, which allows family members of Spanish citizens or residents to join them in the country.
By right of choice
Foreigners who are of direct descent from Spanish citizens may be eligible for Spanish citizenship by choice without fulfilling some of the conditions required in other cases.
General requirements for all methods
No criminal record in Spain and in the country of previous residence.
Proof of a stable source of income.
Having private health insurance that covers you in Spain.
Application procedure
Preparation of documents: collect necessary documents, including passport, residence permit, certificate of no criminal record, proof of financial stability and health insurance.
Applying: Apply to the relevant authorities (usually the Spanish Migration Service or the relevant authority in your municipality).
Passing interviews and exams: pass the interview and pass the necessary exams.
Waiting for a decision: The processing of an application can take from several months to several years.
For more detailed information and current requirements, you can contact legal consultants or an immigration attorney.
