Residence
10 yrs
Via marriage
~1 yrs
By descent
Parent
Dual citizenship
Limited
Naturalisation by residence
10 years of legal, continuous residence. Only 2 years for nationals of Ibero-American countries, Andorra, the Philippines, Equatorial Guinea, Portugal and people of Sephardic origin; 5 years for refugees.
Through marriage
1 year of legal residence if married to a Spanish citizen and living together.
By descent (ancestry)
Children of a Spanish parent are Spanish. The Democratic Memory Law route for grandchildren of exiles closed in October 2025.
Language & tests
DELE A2 Spanish exam and the CCSE test on the constitution and Spanish culture (with exemptions for Spanish-speaking nationals).
Dual citizenship
Only nationals of Ibero-American countries, Andorra, the Philippines, Equatorial Guinea, Portugal and France can keep their nationality; others must formally renounce it.
Investment
The golden visa (residence by investment) was abolished in April 2025.
Frequently asked questions
How many years does it take to get Spain citizenship?
The standard requirement is 10 years. 10 years of legal, continuous residence. Only 2 years for nationals of Ibero-American countries, Andorra, the Philippines, Equatorial Guinea, Portugal and people of Sephardic origin; 5 years for refugees.
Does Spain allow dual citizenship?
Limited. Only nationals of Ibero-American countries, Andorra, the Philippines, Equatorial Guinea, Portugal and France can keep their nationality; others must formally renounce it.
Can I get Spain citizenship through marriage?
1 year of legal residence if married to a Spanish citizen and living together.
Can I get Spain citizenship through my parents or grandparents?
Children of a Spanish parent are Spanish. The Democratic Memory Law route for grandchildren of exiles closed in October 2025.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Requirements change and individual circumstances matter; confirm with Spanish Ministry of Justice – Nationality or a qualified immigration lawyer before applying.