Requirements to apply for Spanish nationality by residence
The years you need depend on your country and your situation. We explain the requirements and how to find out in 2 minutes whether you can already apply.
How many years of residence you need
Your residence must be legal, continuous and immediately before the application. The time depends on your case:
- 10 years: the general rule.
- 5 years: if you have refugee status.
- 2 years: if you are from a Latin American country, Andorra, the Philippines, Equatorial Guinea or Portugal, or if you are Sephardic.
- 1 year: if you were born in Spain; if you have been married to a Spanish citizen for 1 year and live together; if you are the widow or widower of a Spanish citizen; if you were born outside Spain to a father, mother, grandfather or grandmother who were Spanish by origin; and other specific cases.
Besides the years
- Good civic conduct: no criminal record in Spain or in your country.
- Integration into Spanish society: shown by passing the constitutional and sociocultural knowledge exam (CCSE) and, if your language is not Spanish, the DELE A2.
- A valid residence permit when you apply.
Documents usually required
- Valid passport and residence card (TIE).
- Birth certificate from your country, legalised and translated if needed.
- Criminal record certificate from your country, legalised and translated.
- Certificate of registration at your address (empadronamiento).
- The CCSE and DELE A2 diplomas (or the exemption).
Each case may need extra documents. The assistant tells you exactly which ones apply to you.
How we help
We check for free whether you meet the years, tell you which exams you need and give you a fixed final price, with the fee and exams included. We register you for the CCSE and DELE, prepare your file and submit it online. You follow it in the app.
Frequently asked questions
How many years do I need to apply for Spanish nationality?
The general rule is 10 years of legal and continuous residence. It is 2 years for nationals of Latin American countries, Andorra, the Philippines, Equatorial Guinea, Portugal and Sephardic Jews; 5 for refugees; and 1 year in cases such as being born in Spain or being married to a Spanish citizen for a year.
Do I have to take any exams?
Yes, usually the CCSE (knowledge of Spain). If your language is not Spanish, also the DELE A2. There are exemptions, for example for minors.
How long does it take?
The law gives one year to decide, but in practice it can take longer. If there is no answer in that time, it is deemed refused and you can appeal.
What happens when it is granted?
You must swear or promise loyalty to the King and obedience to the Constitution and the laws before the Civil Registry within 180 days of notification. Then you can apply for your Spanish ID card and passport.