Applies to: Nationality-by-residence procedure; nationality of origin and personal circumstances matter.
Before you start
- Identity, birth and residence evidence.
- Criminal-record and civil-status documents where required.
- Applicable CCSE/DELE evidence or approved exemption.
- Current nationality application and fee proof.
The steps
Choose the correct qualifying period
The general rule is ten years; reduced periods exist, including five for recognised refugees and two for specified origins. The one-year cases are specific legal categories, not a general shortcut.
Check the marriage rule carefully
Marriage to a Spaniard does not itself grant nationality. The one-year category requires the relevant marriage conditions and qualifying legal residence in Spain.
Audit legal continuous residence
Count the qualifying period immediately before filing. Tourist time and student estancia should not simply be added as ordinary residence.
Prepare tests and documents
Use the current Ministry of Justice instructions and Instituto Cervantes rules for tests, exemptions and validity. Check authentication and translation before filing.
Submit and follow notices
Keep the receipt and application number, monitor formal requests, and respond within the stated deadline.
Finish the post-approval steps
Complete the required oath/promise and civil registration within the notified deadline. The registration enables the subsequent Spanish identity-document process.
Important details
Dual nationality
Spain’s declaration-of-renunciation rules and your other country’s nationality law are separate questions. Check both before making a decision.
A deadline is not a passport promise
A two-year qualifying period means possible eligibility to apply after the requirements are met; it does not promise a passport two years after arrival.
See the bigger picture
Pair these practical steps with the Spain-wide essentials.
Sources & next steps
Reviewed 30 September 2026. This independent guide provides general information. Requirements, fees and office arrangements can change; the responsible authority’s current instructions control your application. Commercial service links explain products, not official rules.