The time to apply for the Spanish nationality depends on several factors such as the nationality of origin. Here are some useful pieces of information:

When can I apply for Spanish nationality?

Many of our clients ask us after how much time being resident in Spain they can apply for Spanish nationality. There is no uniform answer as it depends on the country of origin & your personal situation like marital status for example.

Let us explain:

For time of residence to count, you need to live in Spain at least 10 years legally and uninterrupted, immediately preceding the application, in accordance with Article 22 of the Spanish Civil Code.

However, the Civil Code itself provides for certain special cases allowing us to submit an application for Spanish nationality before reaching the 10 years of residence.

For example, you can apply for Spanish nationality with only 5 years of residence in Spain in cases where the applicant has obtained refugee status in Spain.

In case of a national origin in Latin American countries, Andorra, Philippines, Equatorial Guinea, Portugal or Sephardim, you may apply for Spanish nationality at the time of having been a legal resident in Spain for at least 2 years, immediately prior to the request.

Article 22 of the Civil Code further states that 1 year legal residence is sufficient in any of the following proven cases:

– Being born on Spanish territory.

– In case the Spanish nationality was not elected at the time the person was legally entitled to elect it.

– Having been legally subject to guardianship, custody or foster care of a Spanish citizen or institution for two consecutive years, even if this situation continues at the time of application.

– Being married to a Spanish citizen for at least one year without being separated legally or physically.

– Being a widow or widower of a Spanish national, if case that before death of the spouse there was no legal separation.

– Born outside of Spain from a parent or grandparent, who was originally Spanish.