Eligibility & Requirements
Understanding the criteria is the first step toward your Spanish passport. Here is what you need to know about the general requirements for applying.
TIME CRITERIA
Residency Years
Generally 10 years of legal, continuous residency in Spain. This is reduced for certain nationalities and situations.
LEGAL STATUS
Good Conduct
Proof of good civic conduct through a clean criminal record from both Spain and your country of origin.
INTEGRATION
Exams and Integration
Passing the CCSE socio-cultural exam and DELE A2 (Spanish language) exam, unless you are exempt.
Exams Support (CCSE & DELE)
We guide you through the mandatory Spanish nationality exams. From registration to study resources, we ensure you are fully prepared for the CCSE (constitutional and cultural) and DELE (language) requirements.
Document Preparation & Legalization
Don't let paperwork overwhelm you. We assist with gathering birth certificates, criminal record checks, and ensuring all overseas documents are correctly apostilled and translated by official sworn translators.
Submission & Status Tracking
Once your file is ready, we support the digital submission process. We monitor your application's progress through the Ministry of Justice, keeping you informed until your citizenship resolution arrives.
Nationality FAQ
What are the main requirements for residency-based nationality?
You generally need 10 years of legal and continuous residency, though this is reduced for refugees (5 years), nationals of Ibero-American countries (2 years), or those born in Spain (1 year).
Do I need to take exams for the application?
Most applicants must pass the DELE (Spanish language) and CCSE (cultural and constitutional knowledge) exams administered by the Instituto Cervantes.
How long does the process take once submitted?
The processing time can vary significantly, usually between 1 to 2 years, depending on the Ministry of Justice's current backlog and the complexity of the case.
Can I apply if I am married to a Spanish citizen?
Yes, if you have been legally resident in Spain for at least one year and are married to a Spaniard (and not legally or factually separated), you can apply for nationality.