Spanish citizenship by naturalization
Obtain a passport from a leading European Union country
- 176 visa-free travel destinations
- Right to live and work in 27 countries across Europe
- High-quality healthcare and social security system
Unlock your options — consult with an expert today
About the program
The Spanish citizenship by naturalization program is governed by the country's Civil Code. The main requirement is legal residence in Spain for 10 years. Applicants must demonstrate integration into Spanish society by passing two mandatory exams: DELE A2 (Spanish language proficiency) and CCSE (knowledge of the constitution and sociocultural aspects of Spain). Key conditions for naturalization include financial independence, a clean criminal record, and a commitment to Spanish values.
- Residence period: from 10 years years with residency before applying for citizenship
- Right to work and do business: unlimited in any EU country, as well as in Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein
- Education: unrestricted access to universities in Spain and other EU countries, with opportunities for scholarships and grants
- Taxation: ability to benefit from tax advantages and deductions, including when purchasing property or making investments
Advantages of obtaining a Spanish citizenship
Freedom of movement and work in the European Union
With Spanish citizenship, you gain the right to live, work, and do business in any of the 27 EU countries without additional permits or time restrictions.
High-quality European education
Spanish citizenship provides access to free higher education at public universities in Spain and discounted tuition rates at top universities across Europe.
Modern healthcare system
A Spanish passport guarantees access to high-quality healthcare (ranked 9th in the world) and the full benefits of the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
Visa-free travel worldwide
The Spanish passport ranks highly globally, allowing visa-free access to 176 countries, including the USA, Canada, the UK, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand.
Legal protection and safety
Spain is a rule-of-law country with a developed judicial system, ensuring full protection of citizens' rights within the country and diplomatic support abroad.
Retention of original citizenship
Unlike many other EU countries, Spain allows citizens from many nations to retain their original passport when naturalizing, which is particularly important for international business.
Favorable business climate
Spain offers a well-developed business infrastructure, access to the single European market with 450 million consumers, and various support programs for entrepreneurs.
High quality of life
Spain ranks 18th in the world for quality of life. The Mediterranean climate, rich culture, developed infrastructure, and safety make it one of the most attractive countries to live in Europe.
The opportunities that come with a Spanish passport
Get your guide to obtaining Spanish citizenship
- Step-by-step roadmap for applicants
- Specific requirements and financial costs
- Ready-made strategy for obtaining citizenship
- Updated 2025 program
Get your guide to obtaining Spanish citizenship
Visa-free travel options
The Spanish passport consistently ranks among the top in global rankings and currently provides visa-free access to 175 countries worldwide. You will be able to travel freely throughout the Schengen Area and the European Union, as well as visit the USA (via the ESTA program), Canada (ETA), the UK, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, the UAE, Singapore, and many other developed countries.
175 countries passport mobility
2nd place passport power ranking
- Visa-free countries122
- Visa on arrival44
- eVisa countries9
Spanish passport: 170+ countries without a visa
Discover the opportunities of Spanish citizenship with Mirsatori's support
- Fast-track your European Union passport
- Professional guidance at every step
- Guaranteed compliance with all legal requirements
Unlock your options — consult with an expert today
Spanish citizenship: comparative analysis
Category
Spain
France
Serbia
Number of visa-free travel countries
170+
170+
140
Required residence period
from 10 years
from 5 years
from 3 years
Personal income tax
from 19%
from 0%
10%
Corporate tax
from 25%
from 15%
15%
Family immigration
yes
yes
yes
Getting residency in Spain — your first step towards citizenship
Obtaining Spanish residency allows you to later acquire citizenship through a simple and accessible procedure. When planning your immigration strategy, it's important to find the optimal basis that aligns with the specific needs of each client.
Our specialists have selected popular residency programs that provide entrepreneurs, professionals, and their families with the right to permanent residence in Spain.
Participation in a startup
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- Cost: from EUR 11,000
- Residency duration: 3 years
- Processing time: from 3 months
- Visa-free travel within the Schengen Zone
- Entry into Spain without a national D visa
- Residency for spouse and children
Basis: innovative business plan of economic interest to Spain, proof of sufficient financial means to live and implement the project.
Digital Nomads
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- Cost: EUR 3,000
- Residency duration: 3 years
- Processing time: 45 days
- Visa-free travel within the Schengen Zone
- Residency for family members
- Fast-track processing
Basis: proof of remote worker or freelancer status for companies outside Spain, stable income meeting the minimum requirement, and valid health insurance coverage.
Step-by-step plan for obtaining citizenship
Step-by-step plan for obtaining citizenship
Obtaining residency based on a Startup Visa
Mirsatori specialists help you obtain a three-year residency permit through the registration of an innovative startup. We prepare the business plan, obtain ENISA approval, and handle all necessary documentation. The first residency permit is issued within 3 months.
Request a consultationBusiness development and integration into Spanish society
During your residency, you will develop your business project, learn Spanish, and immerse yourself in Spanish culture. Mirsatori lawyers assist with residency renewals, provide tax advice, and ensure all requirements are met for future naturalization.
Request a consultationResidency renewal and compliance with residency requirements
After the first 3 years, our specialists assist with extending your residency. It’s important to maintain continuous legal status, pay taxes, and not stay outside Spain for extended periods. Mirsatori specialists ensure all conditions are met.
Request a consultationPreparation for DELE and CCSE exams
One year before applying for citizenship, we organize preparation for the mandatory exams. Mirsatori teaching partners assist with learning Spanish and preparing for the constitution and cultural knowledge test.
Request a consultationDocument collection and application submission
Mirsatori lawyers collect the full set of documents, including criminal record certificates, income proof, exam certificates, and evidence of integration. We submit the application electronically through the official Ministry of Justice platform.
Request a consultationReceiving the decision and obtaining the passport
After a positive decision, you will swear allegiance to the Spanish Constitution at the Civil Registry. Mirsatori specialists assist with obtaining your Spanish passport and national ID card (DNI).
Request a consultationGet a personalized strategy for obtaining Spanish citizenship
A specialist will create a detailed plan for your citizenship application, analyzing all the steps based on your family composition, required residence period, and language proficiency.
Get your strategy
Get a personalized strategy for obtaining Spanish citizenship
Citizenship by naturalization: alternative programs
Country
Cost
Residency requirement
Benefits
Serbia
Cost
upon request
Residency requirement
from 3 years
Benefits
Learn more
- Short pathway to citizenship
- Affordable cost of living
- Low taxation
France
Cost
upon request
Residency requirement
from 5 years
Benefits
Learn more
- Visa-free travel to 170+ countries
- Right to live and work in Schengen countries
- Access to affordable education and healthcare
FAQ
What is the minimum residence period required to apply for citizenship?
The standard residence period is 10 years of continuous legal residence. However, for citizens of Latin American countries, Andorra, the Philippines, Equatorial Guinea, and Portugal, the period is reduced to 2 years. Refugees can apply after 5 years of residence.
Is it necessary to renounce your original citizenship?
Citizens of Latin American countries, Andorra, the Philippines, Equatorial Guinea, and Portugal can retain their original citizenship. Other applicants must declare their renunciation of previous citizenship.
What exams are required for citizenship?
Two exams are required: DELE level A2 or higher (Spanish language) and CCSE (knowledge of the constitution and culture). Minors and people with disabilities are exempt from both exams.
Can I leave Spain while accumulating time for naturalization?
Short-term trips are allowed, but prolonged absences may affect continuous residence and delay the citizenship application.
Does studying at a Spanish university count towards the residence period?
Yes, the period spent studying on a student residence permit counts towards the total residence time required for naturalization. It’s important to switch to another residence status without interrupting legal status after graduation.
What financial requirements are there for applicants?
To apply for Spanish citizenship by naturalization, a state fee of EUR 104.05 must be paid.
How long does the application process take?
By law, the Ministry of Justice must process the application within 12 months. Proper document preparation significantly speeds up the procedure.
What should I do in case of a citizenship refusal?
In case of refusal, you can file an administrative appeal within one month or challenge the decision in court. It is important to analyze the reasons for the refusal before reapplying.
What documents are needed to apply?
The main documents include: the application form, passport and residency permit, criminal record certificates from Spain and the country of origin, tax payment confirmation, DELE and CCSE certificates, birth certificate with apostille.
Does Spanish citizenship extend to family members?
Spouses and adult children must go through the naturalization process independently. Minor children can obtain citizenship after the parent’s naturalization if they legally reside in Spain.
Get expert guidance on your case
Schedule a meeting with our specialists, in-office or online, and receive a tailored case analysis, a clear cost estimate, and the best solution to achieve your goals. Fill out the form to schedule a meeting in the office or online
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