Naturalisation in Spain: opportunities and challenges for residents

Obtaining Spanish citizenship is an attractive option for many people from Europe and the United Kingdom who live in Spain or plan to build a future there. However, the path to naturalisation brings not only advantages but also a number of challenges. It is therefore crucial to carefully consider the legal requirements, the individual advantages and disadvantages, and the possible consequences.

Ways to Spanish citizenship
- birthright: Persons with at least one Spanish parent are automatically entitled to Spanish citizenship. Births on Spanish territory may also offer a possibility, especially for children of stateless parents or in special cases.
- marriageMarrying a Spanish citizen can be a quick way to obtain citizenship. After one year of marriage and joint residence in Spain, an application can be submitted, whereby the authenticity of the marriage is strictly examined.
- Naturalisation by residenceThe most common route to Spanish citizenship for European and British citizens is through permanent residence. After residing in Spain for ten years, at least five of which must be with permanent residence status, an application can be made. This period is reduced to two years for citizens of certain countries, but British and most European citizens must prove they have resided in Spain for the full ten years.

Advantages and challenges  naturalisation
Spanish citizenship offers numerous advantages. In addition to unrestricted voting rights, citizens can benefit from simplified bureaucratic processes and have access to all social services. This is particularly advantageous for long-term residents who see their future in Spain.

Nevertheless, there are also challenges to consider. Spain generally requires applicants to renounce their previous nationality, which is a difficult decision for many Europeans and British citizens. This is because losing one's original nationality can restrict access to social and economic rights in the country of origin. In addition, the bureaucratic effort involved in obtaining citizenship is considerable.

Dual citizenship
Citizens of Latin American countries, Andorra, Portugal and the Philippines are eligible to obtain dual citizenship. However, Spain generally requires British and most European citizens to choose between their original nationality and Spanish citizenship. There are, however, exceptions and legal loopholes that make it possible to retain dual citizenship.

Should Europeans and Britons a change of nationality consider?
For many Europeans and Britons, the question arises as to whether a change of citizenship is actually necessary or sensible. Long-term residents already enjoy almost all the rights of a citizen through their permanent residence in Spain, apart from participation in national elections and certain bureaucratic advantages. The need for a Spanish passport should therefore be carefully considered, especially for those who maintain close ties to their country of origin and do not wish to lose their original nationality.

However, Brexit has changed the considerations for British citizens. With the United Kingdom's withdrawal from the EU, many British citizens in Spain have suffered a loss of status, which is why Spanish citizenship has become attractive to them in order to retain all EU rights in the long term. For other Europeans, this issue is usually less pressing, as they continue to enjoy comprehensive rights in Spain through their EU citizenship status.

Consulting and careful planning
The decision to acquire Spanish citizenship is a long-term and profound personal decision. To ensure that all options are explored and legal risks are avoided, professional advice is essential. Every individual's situation is different, and the process can be complex. Whether through birth, marriage or permanent residence, obtaining Spanish citizenship requires not only patience but also a clear idea of your future plans.