How to obtain Spanish nationality by marriage? This is a frequently asked question among those who wish to marry a person of Spanish nationality. Nationality by marriage in Spain is granted to those who obtain the title of marriage in the country. This means that foreigners who marry a Spanish citizen can obtain Spanish nationality through a naturalisation process.
To apply for Spanish nationality, you must meet the legal requirements set by the Spanish government and submit a number of documents to prove that you are married to a Spanish citizen. The process of obtaining nationality through this procedure can be complicated, but if the process is followed correctly, the applicant can obtain Spanish nationality in a relatively short period of time. Stay tuned to this article for more information.
Remember that you can count on our team of experts in foreigners to help you with the whole process.
What is nationality by marriage in Spain?
Nationality by marriage in Spain is a procedure by which a foreign person who is married to a Spanish citizen can apply for Spanish nationality after a certain period of marriage and fulfil certain requirements.
In order to apply for this nationality formality in Spain, the foreign spouse must have been married to the Spanish citizen for at least one year and must have been legally resident in the country during that period. He or she must also demonstrate integration into society, have an adequate knowledge of the Spanish language and have no criminal record.
The application process can be lengthy and complex, and the requirements may vary depending on each person's individual situation.
Requirements for nationality by marriage
In order to apply for nationality by marriage in Spain, a series of requirements must be met, which are detailed below:
- MarriageThe foreign person must be married to a Spanish citizen. In addition, the couple must be legally married, which means they must be married in Spain or in a country where marriage is recognised in Spain.
- Legal residence: the foreign spouse must have been legally resident in Spain for at least one year before applying for nationality. Legal residence is considered to be that which has been granted by the competent authorities and which has not been subject to revocation.
- Social integration: must demonstrate their integration into Spanish society. This can be demonstrated in several ways, such as having a stable job and being registered with the Social Security, having a permanent address in Spain, being integrated in the local community and participating in cultural and social activities.
- Knowledge of the Spanish language: The foreign spouse must demonstrate a sufficient level of knowledge of the Spanish language, both spoken and written. To prove knowledge of the Spanish language, an official certificate from a centre accredited by the Instituto Cervantes or an official Spanish exam can be presented.
- No criminal record: the foreigner must not have a criminal record in Spain or in any other country where he/she has resided during the last five years. It is essential to present a criminal record certificate issued by the competent authorities.
- Renunciation of former nationalityIn some cases, it is necessary to renounce one's previous nationality in order to opt for Spanish nationality. However, there are exceptions, for example, if the renunciation of the previous nationality is contrary to the legislation of the country of origin.
In addition to these requirements, the foreign spouse must also submit a number of documents.
Documents to be submitted in order to apply for nationality by marriage
In order to apply for nationality by marriage in Spain, it is necessary to present a series of documents that accredit the fulfilment of the requirements established by law. These documents may vary depending on the personal situation of each applicant, but in general the following are usually required:
- Marriage certificate: it is necessary to present the marriage certificate in order to prove that the applicant is married to a Spanish citizen. This document must be issued by the competent authority of the country where the marriage took place and must be duly apostilled or legalised.
- Certificate of census registrationThe empadronamiento certificate certifies the applicant's residence in Spain. This document must be issued by the town hall where the applicant resides and must be up to date.
- Residence card: It is necessary to present the residence card to prove that the applicant has legal residence in Spain. This document must be in force and must be issued by the competent authorities.
- Criminal record certificate: the criminal record certificate certifies that the applicant has no criminal record in Spain or in any other country where he/she has resided during the last five years. This document must be issued by the competent authorities and must be duly apostilled or legalised.
- Certificate of social integrationThis accredits the applicant's integration into Spanish society. Any document that accredits participation in cultural, social or work activities, etc. can be presented.
- Certificate of knowledge of the Spanish language: it is important to present a certificate that accredits a sufficient level of knowledge of the Spanish language, both spoken and written. This certificate can be issued by any Institute accredited by the Ministry of Education, Culture and Sport.
Please note that all documents must be in force and duly apostilled or legalised, as appropriate.
Benefits of obtaining citizenship
Obtaining Spanish nationality by marriage has several benefits, both personal, employment and social. Some of the main benefits are detailed below:
- Political rights: on obtaining Spanish nationality, the applicant acquires the right to participate in the political life of the country, being able to vote and be elected in elections.
- Free movement: by having Spanish nationality, you can travel freely throughout the countries of the European Union and enjoy the rights and freedoms recognised by the EU.
- Consular protection: as you have Spanish nationality, you can count on the protection of the Spanish consular services abroad.
- Access to public servicesaccess to Spanish public services, such as health, education and other social services, will be available.
- Right to work: professions and jobs that are reserved for Spanish citizens can be exercised.
- Facilities for family reunification: upon receiving Spanish nationality, family reunification of foreign spouses, children and parents can be requested.
- Greater stability: You will obtain greater stability of residence in Spain, as you acquire the right to remain in the country indefinitely.
Remember that you can count on our team of experts in foreigners to help you with the whole process.
