Assistance with Spanish Nationality Applications for EU and Non-EU Citizens

Applying for Spanish nationality can be a complex and time-consuming process, whether the applicant is a European Union (EU) citizen or a non-EU national. Although the legal pathways may differ depending on nationality, residence history, and personal circumstances, the administrative requirements are detailed and strictly regulated. At Barcelona Expats we provide essential guidance and practical support throughout the entire procedure, helping applicants avoid delays, errors, and unnecessary stress.

Understanding the Legal Requirements

Spanish nationality is regulated under the Spanish Civil Code and administered by the Ministerio de Justicia. The most common route is nationality by residence. In general, applicants must demonstrate a continuous and legal period of residence in Spain, typically:

• 10 years for most non-EU nationals
• 5 years for refugees
• 2 years for nationals of certain Ibero-American countries, Andorra, the Philippines, Equatorial Guinea, Portugal, or for Sephardic Jews
• 1 year in specific cases (such as marriage to a Spanish citizen or being born in Spain)

For EU citizens, the residence requirement is usually the same as for other foreign nationals unless a shorter period applies under specific circumstances. However, EU citizens often assume that freedom of movement automatically simplifies nationality procedures. In reality, the nationality process is separate from residence rights and requires full compliance with Spanish legal criteria.

At Barcelona Expat we ensure that you as an applicant fully understand the exact legal pathway applicable to your case.

Documentation and application process

One of the most critical aspects of a nationality application is documentation. The Spanish authorities require precise and up-to-date documents, such as:

• Valid passport and residence documentation
• Birth certificate 
• Criminal record certificates from Spain and country of origin
• Proof of continuous legal residence
• Marriage certificate 
• Evidence of integration into Spanish society

Additionally, most applicants must pass the CCSE (constitutional and cultural knowledge) exam and Non-Spanish-speaking applicants must also pass a DELE A2 language exam unless exempt.

We verify that all documents are correctly legalized or apostilled, officially translated when required, and properly formatted for submission.  This professional review gnificantly reduces this risk of errors.

We also ensure that you have the digital certificates, proper document uploads, payment of administrative fees, and accurate completion of detailed forms for the online procedure, avoiding requests for correction and the prolongation of the processing times. At Barcelona Expat we submit the application using an authorized digital certificate, ensure correct categorization of documents, track the file status and respond to official notifications within required deadlines.

Monitoring and Follow-Up

Nationality applications often take considerable time to be processed. During this period, the authorities may request additional documents or clarifications. Missing a notification or failing to respond within the deadline can result in the application being archived or denied. We ensure the continuously monitoring of the file and managing the communications with the administration. 

Once nationality is granted, we will guide you through the final formalities to ensure the process is completed correctly, including:

• Swearing allegiance to the Spanish Constitution before the Civil Registry
• Registering the applicant as a Spanish citizen
• Applying for a Spanish passport and national identity card (DNI)

Benefits for Both EU and Non-EU Applicants

While EU citizens may already enjoy residence rights in Spain, nationality grants full political rights, including voting in national elections and access to a Spanish passport. For non-EU nationals, Spanish nationality also provides freedom of movement throughout the European Union.

In both cases, the process requires careful preparation and strict compliance with legal requirements. At Barcelona Expat we provide expertise, efficiency, and peace of mind, helping applicants navigate the administrative system with clarity and confidence.

Ultimately, professional assistance transforms a potentially complex bureaucratic procedure into a structured and manageable process.