You can apply once you complete the period of legal, continuous residence that applies to you: ten years as a rule, or five, two or one depending on your case.
Routes to consider
It is two years for nationals of Ibero-American countries, Andorra, the Philippines, Equatorial Guinea and Portugal or Sephardic Jews; five for refugees; and one, for example, for people born in Spain or married to a Spanish citizen for a year. The time must immediately precede the application, and you must pass the DELE A2 (except Spanish speakers) and the CCSE. Spanish citizenship by residence
A point to check carefully
Gather all your residence decisions and check there are no gaps without a permit: the requirement is legal, continuous residence immediately before the application.
Documents to get started
- Full passport and current authorisation, if any.
- Residence history, civil status certificates and personal documentation.
- Integration or exemption evidence and criminal records, depending on the route.
- Timeline of entries, departures, applications and notifications.
How we proceed
- Assessment: confirm the route and competent authority.
- Preparation: collect and review evidence specific to your case.
- Filing: check forms, fees and representation.
- Follow-up: monitor notices and explain the decision and next formalities.
Frequently asked questions
When should I start?
As soon as you meet the period of legal, continuous residence that applies to you. If it has been granted, you have 180 days to take the oath; if refused, one month for an administrative appeal or two months for a court appeal.