MORE ABOUT Spain

Spain's Citizenship by Descent

Spain offers citizenship by descent to individuals with Spanish ancestry, allowing them to reconnect with their heritage and gain the benefits of Spanish and EU citizenship.

Statistics

Spain - Citizenship By Descent

Discover Citizenship by Descent in Spain

Spanish citizenship by descent, also known as "citizenship by origin" or "jus sanguinis" (right of blood), is available to individuals who can prove Spanish ancestry in a direct line. This path to citizenship allows descendants of Spanish citizens to claim their heritage, with specific provisions for different groups.

Minimum Income Amount

Visa-Free Travel Countries

178

Months to Visa

Overview

A Snapshot of Citizenship by Descent in Spain

One-Liner: Reconnect with your Spanish roots through citizenship by descent.

Eligibility Requirements

One parent is a Spanish national or both parents were born in Spain

Anchor Ancestor restrictions

Must have been a Spanish citizen at the time of applicant's birth (special provisions for grandparents under the "Grandchildren's Law")

Months to citizenship

12-36

Length of Visa

Months to Visa

Physical Presence Requirement

Some cases require 1-2 years of residency

Availability

Medium

Family Allowance

Spouse and children

Overview

Benefits of Citizenship by Descent in Spain

Spanish citizenship offers numerous advantages, including EU membership benefits, visa-free travel to approximately 190 countries, and the opportunity to live and work in Spain and other EU countries.

Administrative Path: Submit application to Spanish embassy or consulate abroad

Apply in Country Path: Applications can be submitted in Spain if legally residing there

Overview

Requirements for Citizenship by Descent in Spain

To apply for Spanish citizenship by descent, you must meet one of the following requirements:

  • Have at least one parent who is a Spanish national OR both parents were born in Spain
  • Pass the DELE A2 Spanish language test and CCSE cultural knowledge exam (for some cases)
  • Demonstrate good character (no serious criminal convictions)
  • All non-Spanish documents must be translated to Spanish and apostilled or legalized

Overview

Documents Needed for Spain's Citizenship by Descent

Birth certificates (your own and your Spanish ancestors')

Marriage Certificate

Death certificates (if applicable)

Proof of Spanish citizenship of ancestor (e.g., old Spanish passports, citizenship certificates)

Criminal record check

Proof of passing DELE A2 and CCSE exams (if required)

Discover How GlobalPassport Simplifies the Application Process for Spain's Citizenship by Descent

Step-by-Step Guidance

Our experienced team will guide you through each stage of the application process, offering personalized assistance tailored to your needs.

Document Preparation

We'll help you gather and organize the documents you need for applying.

Application Submission

Once your documents are ready, we'll let you know where and how to submit your application to the relevant authorities.

FAQs about Spain's Citizenship by Descent

Is there a generational limit for Spanish citizenship by descent?

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Do I need to speak Spanish to apply for citizenship by descent?

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How long does the citizenship application process take?

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Can I hold dual citizenship with Spain?

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Where do I submit my application for Spanish citizenship by descent?

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Why Spain

Spain offers a rich cultural heritage, beautiful landscapes, and the benefits of EU membership. As a Spanish citizen, you'll have access to opportunities across Europe and beyond.

Benefits:

  • EU citizenship
  • Visa-free travel to approximately 190 countries
  • Right to live and work in Spain and other EU countries

Advantages:

  • High quality of life
  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Strong economy and job opportunities

As seen in

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