If you have Spanish parents or grandparents, you may be eligible to claim Spanish citizenship by descent (also known as “citizenship by origin”). This route offers a straightforward path to nationality without long residency periods.
Here’s what foreigners should know.
📜 Who Qualifies for Citizenship by Descent?
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Children born to at least one Spanish parent, regardless of birthplace
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Grandchildren of Spanish nationals, under specific conditions and recent legal reforms
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Those registered in the Registro Civil (Civil Registry) with Spanish ancestry
🛠️ Application Requirements
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Certified birth certificates linking you to your Spanish ancestor
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Proof that your parent/grandparent was a Spanish citizen at the time of your birth
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Criminal background check from your country of residence
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Passport or valid ID
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Residency or proof of legal stay in Spain (may be required)
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Application form and fees
🗓️ Key Legal Updates
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Recent laws have expanded eligibility for grandchildren of Spaniards, making the process easier
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Time-limited registration windows may apply, so it’s important to act quickly
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Some cases require demonstrating cultural or language ties to Spain
🌍 Advantages of Citizenship by Descent
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Bypass the standard 10-year residency requirement
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Full rights as an EU citizen: travel, work, study across EU
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Access to Spanish social services and benefits
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No requirement to renounce other nationalities in many cases
🛡️ How Borderless Lawyers Can Help
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Verify your eligibility and gather necessary documentation
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Assist with registration at the Civil Registry and consulates
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Navigate legal changes and deadlines
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Represent you in application follow-ups and appeals
📞 Contact Borderless Lawyers Today
Claim your Spanish heritage with confidence. Borderless Lawyers guides you through every step of citizenship by descent. Contact us for expert legal advice tailored to your case.