Getting Spanish Citizenship by Option
Spanish nationality law offers various pathways to citizenship, one of which is Citizenship by Option. This route is designed for people with specific familial ties. This is considered one of simplier or more straightfoward ways to acquire Spanish nationality.
Who Qualifies for Citizenship by Option?
The eligibility criteria for citizenship by option includes:
- Individuals Under Parental Authority of a Spanish Citizen: If you are or have been under the legal guardianship of a Spanish national, you may be eligible. This typically applies to minors whose parents have acquired Spanish citizenship.
- Children of Spanish Parents Born in Spain: If your father or mother is Spanish and was born in Spain, you have the right to opt for Spanish nationality, regardless of your place of birth or age.
- Individuals Adopted by Spanish Nationals: Adults adopted by Spanish citizens can opt for Spanish nationality within two years following the adoption.
- Individuals Whose Parentage or Birth in Spain Was Determined After Age 18: If your parentage to a Spanish citizen or your birth in Spain was established after you turned 18, you can apply for citizenship by option within two years of this determination.
TIP! If you are applying for Spanish nationality by option, and you have children, they can also obtain citizenship by option provided that those children are 18 years old or younger at the time of application.
Where and How to Apply
- Procedure: Applications are typically processed through the Civil Registry in Spain or at Spanish consulates abroad.
- Documentation: Applicants will need to provide various documents, including birth certificates, proof of parents’ nationality, and legal evidence of adoption or guardianship, depending on the specific eligibility criteria.
Some of the Advantages of Citizenship by Option
- No Residency or Language Requirement: Unlike other pathways, citizenship by option does not require prior residence in Spain nor does it require passing a language or culture exam.
- Dual Nationality: Spain permits dual nationality with certain countries, allowing applicants to retain their original citizenship. This is particularly applicable to individuals from Ibero-American countries, Andorra, the Philippines, Equatorial Guinea, and Portugal.
- EU Mobility: As a Spanish citizen, you gain the right to live, work, and study across the European Union.
Citizenship by option is one of the most straightforward pathways for people looking to gain Spanish nationality. If you believe you qualify, let us know and we can evaluate your case and walk you through the application procedure.
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