At Lexmovea, we understand the importance of obtaining Spanish nationality and the benefits it brings. Our team of immigration law experts will guide you through the various available pathways to achieve your goal, providing you with personalized and efficient service.
Options to Apply for Spanish Nationality
- Nationality by Residency: This is the most common and accessible pathway for most foreigners. It requires proving legal and continuous residence in Spain for a specific period, as well as meeting other requirements such as social integration and knowledge of the Spanish language and culture. At Lexmovea, we will guide you through every step of the process, from preparing the documentation to submitting the application and following up on your case.
- Nationality by Simple Presumption: Nationality by presumption applies in specific cases where Spanish nationality is presumed, such as those born in Spain to foreign parents who were also born in Spain. We will help you determine if you meet the requirements for nationality by simple presumption and guide you through the Spanish nationality application process under this option.
- Nationality by the Law of Democratic Memory: The Spanish nationality under the democratic memory law allows descendants of Spaniards who lost or renounced their nationality due to exile during the Civil War and the Franco dictatorship to apply for Spanish nationality. We will advise you on the requirements and assist you in preparing the necessary documentation.
- Nationality by Option: The Spanish nationality by option is available to certain categories of individuals, such as children of Spaniards born abroad, persons adopted by Spaniards, or Sephardic Jews from Spain. We will analyze your specific case and help you determine if you meet the requirements to apply for nationality through this pathway.
Other Services Related to Spanish Nationality
- Accelerating Nationality Process: If you need to obtain Spanish nationality within a shorter timeframe, we can help speed up the process by filing an administrative contentious appeal to expedite the resolution of your Spanish nationality application.
- Oath before Notary: We will assist you in taking the oath of loyalty to the King and obedience to the Constitution and laws, which is a required step for obtaining Spanish nationality.
Why Choose Lexmovea?
Experience and Specialization: We have a team of expert lawyers specialized in immigration law and Spanish nationality.
- Personalized Advice: We analyze your case individually and provide tailored solutions.
- Transparency and Communication: We keep you informed at every stage of your process.
- Commitment to Success: We work tirelessly to achieve your immigration goals.
Contact Lexmovea today and take the first step towards Spanish citizenship!añola!
Frequently Asked Questions about the Spanish Nationality Application
- How long does the process for applying for Spanish nationality take? The time can vary depending on the application method and the complexity of the case. Generally, the process may take between one and three years. However, at Lexmovea, we help optimize timelines and ensure the correct submission of documents to avoid unnecessary delays.
- What happens if my nationality application is denied? If your application is denied, our lawyers can help you file an appeal or claim to try to reverse the decision. We will assess the reasons for the denial and work on a legal strategy to defend your case.
- Can I apply for Spanish nationality if I don’t speak the language well? Knowledge of the Spanish language is one of the requirements to obtain nationality by residence. At Lexmovea, we provide resources and support to prepare for the Spanish language exam (DELE), ensuring you meet this requirement.
- Is it possible to obtain Spanish nationality by marriage? Marriage to a Spanish citizen can reduce the required residence time for applying for nationality by residence. Instead of the usual ten years, only one year of legal and continuous residence in Spain after marriage is required.
- What documentation do I need to apply for Spanish nationality? The documentation required varies depending on the application method, but generally includes the passport, criminal record certificate, registration certificate, birth certificate, among others. At Lexmovea, we help you gather and prepare all the necessary documents.
- Can I retain my original nationality when obtaining Spanish nationality? Spain allows dual nationality with certain countries. We will verify your specific situation and inform you if you can keep your original nationality when obtaining Spanish nationality.
- How long does the nationality process by simple presumption take? The process for Spanish nationality by presumption usually takes between 3 to 12 months, though it can vary depending on the Civil Registry and the complexity of the case. Submitting complete and correct documentation helps expedite the process for obtaining nationality by simple presumption.
- How can I obtain Spanish nationality / Spanish citizenship? Spanish nationality can be obtained through residence, marriage, option, or other routes depending on your situation. For example, living in Spain legally for 10 years (or 2 years for Ibero-Americans) is one of the most common ways. We explain each option and its requirements in more detail above.
- Can I get Spanish nationality without being a resident? Yes, it is possible to obtain Spanish nationality without being a resident in some specific cases. For example, if you have Spanish parents or grandparents born in Spain, you may apply for nationality by origin or by option. There are also exceptions for people from Ibero-American countries, Andorra, the Philippines, Equatorial Guinea, Portugal, or Sephardic Jews of Spanish origin. These cases are detailed further on our website.
- As an American, can I acquire Spanish nationality? Yes, as an American, you can acquire Spanish nationality, but not automatically. You need to meet the legal requirements, such as residing in Spain for 10 years or 2 years if you have ties to Ibero-American countries, the Philippines, Andorra, or Equatorial Guinea. The process may vary depending on your personal circumstances.
- Does Spain allow dual nationality with the United States? No, Spain and the United States do not have a bilateral agreement that allows dual nationality. When acquiring Spanish nationality, U.S. citizens generally must renounce their original nationality, and vice versa. However, there are exceptions in specific cases or through treaties with other countries. If you need personalized guidance, we recommend consulting with an immigration lawyer like Lexmovea.
- At what age can one apply for Spanish citizenship? In Spain, there is no specific minimum age for applying for citizenship. Minors can acquire Spanish nationality through their parents or legal representatives. However, once they reach the age of 14, they must attend the procedure in person. Adults over 18 can apply independently.
- I passed the citizenship exam, but I’m still not a Spanish citizen. Passing the citizenship exam is just one step. You still need to have your application approved by the Ministry of Justice and complete the oath of nationality at the Civil Registry to officially become a Spanish citizen.