Residency

Spain — Residency: Citizenship

Spanish naturalization by residence generally requires 10 years of continuous, legal, verified residence; reduced to 5 years for recognized refugees; reduced to 2 years for nationals by birth of Ibero-American countries, Andorra, the Philippines, Equatorial Guinea, Portugal, or those of verified Sephardic Jewish origin; and reduced to 1 year for spouses of Spanish citizens (cohabiting, registered marriage) or those born on Spanish territory. Applicants must pass the DELE A2+ Spanish language exam (Instituto Cervantes; exempt for native Ibero-American speakers) and the CCSE constitutional/cultural knowledge exam (15/25 correct minimum). The 2026 government fee (Tasa 790-026) is €104.05, with processing taking 6-12 months for straightforward online applications. Standard naturalizing citizens must renounce their prior nationality during the Jura de Bandera oath; this is waived for citizens of Ibero-American nations, Andorra, the Philippines, Equatorial Guinea, and Portugal, who retain dual nationality.

Ministry of Justice · Last verified 2026-07-17

Key Facts

  • Standard naturalization requires 10 years of continuous, legal residence; 5 years for recognized refugees.
  • 2-year fast track applies to nationals by birth of Ibero-American countries, Andorra, the Philippines, Equatorial Guinea, Portugal, or verified Sephardic Jewish origin.
  • 1-year fast track applies to spouses of Spanish citizens (cohabiting, registered marriage) or those born in Spain.
  • Requires DELE A2+ Spanish language certification (exempt for native Ibero-American speakers) and the CCSE exam (15/25 minimum).
  • 2026 government fee (Tasa 790-026): €104.05; processing takes 6-12 months for straightforward online applications.
  • Standard naturalizing citizens must renounce prior nationality (Jura de Bandera); dual nationality is preserved without renunciation for citizens of Ibero-American nations, Andorra, the Philippines, Equatorial Guinea, and Portugal.

Related Topics

permanent-residency
← Back to Spain guides