Getting Your Spanish Nationality through Marriage

The desire to obtain Spanish citizenship is common among those who marry Spanish citizens. However, the process can be confusing and complex for many. In this article, we will explore in detail how to obtain Spanish nationality through marriage, the necessary requirements, and how a specialized immigration lawyer can assist you.

What Does Obtaining Spanish Nationality through Marriage Mean?

First and foremost, it’s important to clarify that marriage to a Spanish citizen does not automatically guarantee Spanish citizenship. Instead, it facilitates access to citizenship by residence, significantly reducing the required residency period compared to other cases.

Requirements to Obtain Spanish Nationality as the Spouse of a Spanish Citizen

Here are the specific requirements to obtain Spanish nationality through marriage to a Spanish citizen:

1. Legal Residence for One Year: The applicant must have legally resided in Spain for at least one continuous year immediately preceding the application. It’s essential that this period of residence is supported by valid documents.
2. Marriage and Continuous Cohabitation: In addition to residency, being married to a Spanish citizen for at least one year and continuing to be married after the application is required. Continuous cohabitation as a couple must also be demonstrated through documents such as the marriage certificate and joint registration documents.
3. Sufficient Financial Means: The applicant must demonstrate sufficient financial means to support themselves and their family in Spain. This can be done by providing documents showing stable and sufficient income.
4. Certificate of Criminal Records: A certificate of criminal records from both the country of origin and Spain must be submitted to demonstrate good conduct.
5. Cultural Integration: Although being married to a Spanish citizen may imply greater integration into Spanish culture, the applicant must still pass a constitutional and sociocultural knowledge exam of Spain (CCSE) and, if not a Spanish speaker, a language exam (DELE A2).

Marriage as a Means of Acquiring Spanish Nationality

Marriage to a Spanish citizen can be a determining factor in the process of obtaining Spanish nationality for a foreign spouse. Although marriage itself does not automatically grant Spanish citizenship, it can facilitate access through the residency route. Next, we’ll delve into this topic and explore how marriage can influence the process of acquiring Spanish nationality.

Benefits of Marriage to a Spanish Citizen

Marriage to a Spanish citizen can offer several advantages and benefits for the foreign spouse seeking to obtain Spanish nationality:

1. Reduced Residency Time: Instead of having to meet the standard residency requirements of 10 years to obtain Spanish nationality, the foreign spouse only needs to legally reside in Spain for one year if married to a Spanish citizen. This drastic reduction in residency time considerably facilitates the nationality acquisition process.
2. Simplified Documentation: Marriage to a Spanish citizen can simplify some aspects of the nationality application process, as it provides clear evidence of the relationship and the foreign spouse’s cohabitation in Spain.
3. Greater Cultural Integration: By being married to a Spanish citizen, the foreign spouse may have greater integration into Spanish society and culture, which can be beneficial for passing required exams such as the CCSE and DELE A2.
4. Emotional and Legal Support: Marriage to a Spanish citizen can also provide invaluable emotional and legal support throughout the nationality application process. The Spanish spouse can offer guidance and assistance in gathering documents and preparing the application.

Important Considerations Regarding Spanish Nationality by Marriage

Despite the advantages of marriage to a Spanish citizen in the nationality acquisition process, it’s essential to consider some important considerations:

1. Continuity of Marriage: It’s crucial that the marriage remains valid throughout the nationality application process. Separation or divorce can negatively affect the process and, in some cases, may result in the denial of the application.
2. Fulfillment of Additional Requirements: Although marriage reduces the required residency time, the foreign spouse must still meet all other requirements set by Spanish law for obtaining nationality, such as proof of financial means and a clean criminal record.
3. Specialized Legal Advice: Given the complexity of the Spanish nationality application process, it’s advisable to seek specialized legal advice from an immigration lawyer. An experienced lawyer can provide expert guidance and ensure that all requirements and legal procedures are properly met.

Obtaining Spanish Nationality through Marriage

If you feel overwhelmed by the process of applying for Spanish nationality by marriage, Immigration Lawyers can offer you expert advice and support you every step of the way. Our immigration lawyers have the experience and knowledge necessary to guide you through the process efficiently and effectively.

From gathering documents to submitting the application to the competent authorities, our team will take care of all legal aspects of the process. Additionally, we’ll be available to answer any questions you may have and provide the necessary support at all times.

In summary, obtaining Spanish nationality through marriage can be a complex process, but with the right assistance, you can achieve your goal successfully. Having the support of a specialized immigration lawyer like Immigration Lawyers can make a difference and ensure that your application is handled properly and without setbacks. Don’t hesitate to contact us for professional and reliable assistance throughout the process!