Spain Citizenship by Residency (2025)

How to Obtain Spanish Citizenship by Residency in 2025

Spanish citizenship by residency, or naturalization, offers permanent residents a path to join a nation famed for its culture, from flamenco to Gaudí’s architecture. Overseen by the Spanish Ministry of Justice, the standard residency requirement is 10 years, though it’s reduced for certain groups (e.g., 2 years for Latin Americans). A Spanish passport, ranked 3rd globally (189 visa-free destinations in 2025), provides EU citizenship benefits.

With its vibrant lifestyle and Mediterranean appeal, Spain draws expats, retirees, and professionals. This 2025 guide covers eligibility, residency requirements, application steps, and tips to secure your citizenship efficiently.

Who Qualifies for Citizenship by Residency?

Naturalization is open to legal residents with varying residency periods based on origin or ties. Here’s who qualifies:

Note: Spain generally requires renouncing prior citizenship, except for nationals of Latin American countries, Andorra, Portugal, Philippines, or Equatorial Guinea.

Residency Rules: The Pathway to Citizenship

Residency starts with a temporary visa, followed by renewals or permanent residency. Here’s the breakdown:

• Temporary Residency: 1-5 years via work, family, or non-lucrative visa (€2,400/month income).
• Permanent Residency: After 5 years of temporary residency (optional step).
• Physical Presence: Must live in Spain for most of the required period (e.g., 10 years total); absences under 6 months typically allowed.

Example: Ana, a Colombian, moves to Spain in April 2015 with a work visa. She applies for citizenship in April 2025 after 10 years, or as early as April 2017 if from a qualifying country (2 years).

Key Rule: Absences over 6 consecutive months may reset the clock unless justified (e.g., work abroad with prior approval).

Step-by-Step Application Process

Naturalization is processed by the Ministry of Justice via the Dirección General de los Registros y del Notariado. Here’s the 2025 process:

1. Start Residency: Obtain a temporary visa (e.g., work, family).
2. Meet Residency: Live in Spain for 10 years (or reduced period if eligible).
3. Pass Tests: Obtain DELE A2 (language) and CCSE (civics) certificates.
4. Gather Documents: Residence card, passport, birth certificate (apostilled/translated), police clearances (Spain + home country), proof of income, 2 photos.
5. Submit Application: File online via Ministry of Justice; pay €104 fee.
6. Review: Background checks and residency verification (1-3 years processing).
7. Oath & ID: Swear allegiance, receive certificate, and apply for DNI/passport.

Timeline: 11-13 years total for standard cases (10 years residency + 1-3 years processing).

Costs of Spanish Citizenship

Fees are modest, with additional costs for residency and tests:

Tips to Secure Your Citizenship

• Check Eligibility: Confirm if you qualify for a reduced period (e.g., 2 years for Latin Americans).
• Stay Resident: Limit absences to under 6 months per year.
• Learn Spanish: Pass DELE A2 early to avoid delays.
• Prove Income: Show stable earnings or savings for residency renewals.
• Track Updates: Monitor Ministry of Justice for 2025 changes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

References & Resources

• Ministry of Justice - Naturalization info.
• Ministry of Interior - Residency permits.
• Henley Passport Index - Passport ranking.