Spain, with its enchanting landscapes, rich history, and vibrant cultures, has long captivated the hearts of people around the world. Beyond being a popular tourist destination, Spain offers individuals the chance to establish roots and embrace their heritage through Spanish citizenship by ancestry (CBA).
What is The Spanish Citizenship by Ancestry Program
Spanish CBA is a way for people with Spanish grandparents or great-grandparents to get Spanish citizenship. It’s popular because it’s easier, cheaper, and doesn’t require living in Spain for a long time. This also helps people connect with their Spanish heritage.
In this article, we will explore the intricacies of spanish citizenship by descent, the eligibility criteria, application process, and the benefits that await those who embrace their Spanish heritage.
How to apply for Spanish Citizenship by Ancestry
To date, citizenship by ancestry is considered one of the fastest and most economical ways for foreigners to secure citizenship in Spain.
In 2023, a total of 240,208 foreign nationals who reside in in Spain acquired Spanish citizenship. This figure represented a jump of 32.3% compared to the previous year. (Source)
There are several reasons why this method is advantageous:
- Straightforward Process: Obtaining citizenship through ancestry follows a relatively straightforward and streamlined process. Applicants need to provide the necessary documentation to prove their Spanish lineage, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, and other relevant records. Once the documentation is verified, the process typically involves submitting an application at a nearby Spanish consulate.
- Cost-Effective: Compared to alternatives like investment-based citizenship or employment-based immigration, citizenship by ancestry is generally more cost-effective. While there may be some expenses associated with gathering the necessary documentation and completing administrative procedures, they are typically lower than the significant investments required for other methods.
- Shorter Residency Requirement: Unlike other methods of acquiring citizenship, such as naturalization, which often require several years of residency in Spain, citizenship by ancestry imposes either no residency requirement or a shorter one, depending on the type of ancestral connection the applicant has with Spain. This means that individuals with certain qualified ancestors can become Spanish citizens without living in the country for an extended period.
- Cultural and Emotional Connection: For individuals with Spanish ancestry, obtaining citizenship by ancestry allows them to reconnect with their cultural heritage and ancestral roots. It provides an opportunity to embrace the language, traditions, and values of their ancestors. This emotional connection to the country can be a significant motivating factor for individuals seeking Spanish citizenship.
- Access to Benefits and Rights: Spanish citizenship grants individuals a range of benefits and rights. These include the ability to live and work freely in Spain and other European Union (EU) member states, access to social services and healthcare, the right to vote in national and EU elections, the possibility of obtaining education benefits in Spain, and the opportunities of securing consular support from the Spanish government when facing an emergency outside of Spain.
Eligibility Requirements for Spanish Ancestry Program
Traditionally, one may potentially qualify to apply for Spanish citizenship by ancestry if one of the following applies:
- At least one of the applicant’s parent is a Spanish national by birth; or
- The applicant was adopted by a Spanish national prior to his/her 18th birthday.
In December 2007, the Official State Gazette published 52/2007 Historical Memory law to recognize and broaden rights to those who had suffered violence or persecution during Spanish the Civil War and Franco dictatorship. Then, with the introduction of the Democratic Memory Law on 19 October 2022, the opportunity for Spanish CBA is later extended to many more descendants of Spaniards.
The Democratic Memory Law provides an opportunity for individuals with a parent or even grandparent who were exiled due to political, ideological, or belief-related reasons to reclaim their Spanish heritage and secure their rightful citizenship. Additionally, children born abroad to Spanish mothers who lost their nationality by marrying foreigners before the 1978 Constitution may also apply for Spanish CBA.
Notably, successful applicants qualified for Spanish CBA under the Democratic Memory Law are not required to renounce their original nationality, making this an attractive option for many foreigners looking to secure a second passport. While the above criteria are essential, it’s important to note that various requirements, exceptions, and additional factors may be taken into account in determining one’s eligibility for the program. Therefore, at Harvey Law Group, we adopt a case-by-case approach, carefully assessing each client’s eligibility for Spanish CBA and identifying potential challenges before assisting clients in the application process.
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Spanish CBA Application Process
To get Spanish citizenship by ancestry, you need to gather documents that prove your family is Spanish. This includes things like your own birth certificate and the birth certificates and marriage certificates of your Spanish ancestors.
If any documentation is missing, a search may need to be conducted at the relevant government authority to retrieve the required documents before commencing the application process. Equally important is the accurate translation of non-Spanish documents by certified translators to meet the Spanish government’s standards. Furthermore, obtaining apostille certifications for all the relevant documents is essential to authenticate their validity for use in the application.
Finally, the applicant must carefully complete the application form to ensure the provision of accurate and comprehensive information before the application is submitted to the Spanish consulate or embassy where the applicant is domiciled. After the application is submitted, applicants also need to monitor the application’s progress diligently to ensure timely response is provided to any requests for additional information issued by the Spanish authority. Given the complexity of the process, seeking professional guidance or legal advice can prove invaluable in navigating through the intricacies of Spanish citizenship by ancestry.
Spanish nationality processing time
Typically, the Spanish authority will take about 2 years to reach a decision on the application, but the actual processing time vary greatly from case to case depending on the completeness of the application, the complexity of the case and the processing capacity of the officer handling your file. Successful applicants would be given the opportunity to take the oath of allegiance to become a Spanish citizen and the Spanish citizenship would be subsequently granted.
Why Harvey Law Group
When considering a Citizenship by Ancestry program in Spain, selecting the right legal partner is crucial for a successful application. Here are several reasons why you can trust Harvey Law Group (HLG) for your project:
- Expertise in Immigration Law: With over 30 years of experience, HLG specializes in Citizenship by Investment and Residency by Investment programs. Their extensive knowledge ensures that clients receive accurate and up-to-date information regarding the complexities of this programs.
- Global Presence: Operating in over 20 offices worldwide, HLG has a deep understanding of international immigration laws and practices. This global reach allows them to provide tailored advice that considers the specific needs and circumstances of clients from different countries.
- Proven Track Record: HLG has successfully assisted thousands of clients in obtaining residency and citizenship through investment programs. Their track record of successful applications speaks to their commitment to client satisfaction and effective legal representation.
- Comprehensive Services: HLG offers a full range of services, from initial consultations to application preparation and submission. Their team provides personalized guidance throughout the entire process, ensuring that clients are well-informed and confident in their decisions.
- Client-Centric Approach: HLG prioritizes the needs of their clients, offering transparent communication and support. They take the time to understand each client’s unique situation and tailor their services accordingly, ensuring a smooth and efficient application process.
- Access to Resources: As a leading law firm in this field, HLG has access to valuable resources and networks that can enhance your application. They stay informed about the latest changes in immigration policies, helping clients navigate any new requirements effectively.
- Commitment to Ethical Practices: HLG adheres to the highest ethical standards in their practice. They provide honest assessments of clients’ eligibility and potential outcomes, ensuring that clients make informed decisions without unrealistic expectations.
Choosing Harvey Law Group for your CBA project means partnering with a reputable firm that combines expertise, experience, and a client-focused approach to help you achieve your immigration goals.
Learn More about the Spanish Citizenship by Ancestry
If you are interested in learning more about the Spanish Citizenship by Ancestry Program, please contact your local Harvey Law Group (HLG) office here for more details. Founded in 1992, HLG is a leading multinational law firm with offices across Asia, North and South America, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East to cater to your specific needs for immigration and beyond.
