Spanish citizenship by residency 2025 is one of the most in-demand topics among foreign nationals who have been living in Spain for years. The updated Immigration Law in force since 2025 brings significant changes aimed at streamlining procedures, improving fairness, and more accurately recognizing the integration of those who have made Spain their home.
In this guide, we break down the most important updates, how the requirements vary depending on your background (Latin Americans, refugees, Sephardic Jews, etc.), and how to start the application process correctly.
What is Spanish Citizenship by Residency?
Spanish citizenship by residency 2025 is the legal route that allows a foreign national to become a Spanish citizen after a period of continuous and legal residence in Spain. It is the most common pathway and is governed by the Spanish Civil Code, now updated with provisions from the revised Immigration Law.
This form of citizenship is not just about how long you’ve lived in Spain—it also requires proof of integration into Spanish society, which is assessed through official exams and supporting documents.
What Has Changed Under the New Rules?
The legal reform introduces improvements in timelines, assessment criteria, and administrative processes. Here are the key updates:
1. Fully Digital Process
- The entire application is now handled online.
- Real-time tracking of your application status.
- Electronic notifications replace traditional postal mail.
2. Community Integration Assessment
Beyond time spent in Spain, authorities now evaluate:
- Involvement in community or cultural associations.
- Education in public or accredited institutions.
- Volunteering with NGOs or community services.
This more holistic approach reduces arbitrary decisions and lets applicants show integration in various ways.
3. New Criteria for Citizenship Exams (CCSE and DELE)
- Exams from Instituto Cervantes (CCSE and DELE) remain mandatory but are now adapted to the applicant’s educational level.
- Easier access for elderly applicants or those with documented learning difficulties.
- Automatic exemptions apply for certain groups, like Latin Americans or refugees with over five years of residency.
4. Shorter Residency Periods for Specific Cases
While the general requirement remains 10 years of legal residence, several exceptions apply—and some have been expanded:
| Applicant Profile | New 2025 Residency Period |
| Nationals of Latin America | 2 years |
| Refugees | 3 years (previously 5) |
| Sephardic Jews with proven ties | 2 years |
| Spouses of Spanish nationals | 1 year |
| Individuals born in Spain | 1 year |
| Children of Spanish nationals | 1 year |
General Requirements for Spanish Citizenship by Residency
While flexibility exists depending on your profile, all applicants must meet these basic requirements:
- Continuous and legal residence in Spain for the required time (1, 2, 5, or 10 years).
- Good civic conduct, proven by criminal background certificates.
- Sufficient integration, usually verified through the CCSE exam (and DELE where applicable).
- Legal capacity to act (no unreported legal incapacities).
- Proper documentation, including passport, NIE, proof of residence, and proof of economic means.
What Documents Do You Need to Apply?
To start your application, prepare the following:
- Criminal background certificate from your home country (legalized and translated).
- Updated proof of registration (empadronamiento).
- Complete passport copy.
- Valid residence permit.
- Certificate of passing the CCSE exam (and DELE if needed).
- Specific documentation depending on your case (e.g., marriage or birth certificates).
All documents must be submitted electronically, and some may require The Hague Apostille or consular legalization.
Special Cases: What You Should Know
Nationals of Latin America
- Benefit: Shorter 2-year residency requirement.
- Partial exemption from language exams if Spanish is an official language in your home country.
- Example: A Colombian citizen with legal residency since 2023 can apply in 2025.
Refugees
- Residency period reduced to 3 years.
- Greater protection if original documents are unavailable.
- Exemptions apply for vulnerable applicants.
Sephardic Jews
- Must prove Sephardic heritage (surname, language, community ties).
- May combine current residency with Sephardic route.
- Requires favorable report from a recognized Jewish community in Spain.
Children of Spanish Citizens Born Abroad
- Only need one year of legal residence.
- Must provide birth certificate and parent’s Spanish documentation.
How Can Legal Allies Help?
Applying for Spanish citizenship by residency 2025 is now faster and more accessible—but still a technical process. At Legal Allies, we support you every step of the way:
- We evaluate your eligibility under the new timelines.
- We help you organize your documentation to avoid mistakes.
- We guide you through the online submission and monitor your application.
- We advise on appeals if your application is rejected.
Plus, our platform offers tailored legal content for every profile. Being informed in advance and understanding your rights under current law is key.
