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Have you ever dreamed of being a citizen of two countries at the same time? With dual citizenship, you can enjoy the rights and benefits of both nations, effectively calling two places home. But before you get too excited, it’s important to note that not all countries permit dual citizenship.
So, how does Spain handle this? The rules here are slightly more complex. Spain offers dual citizenship, but only to individuals from specific countries and under certain conditions.
In this blog, our legal experts will demystify dual citizenship in Spain. They’ll detail who qualifies, the advantages it offers, and provide a step-by-step guide on how to get dual citizenship in Spain.
Whether you’re looking to expand your global footprint or embrace your connections to Spain, this guide is your starting point.
(Article Updated April 2025)
Table of Contents
- Spain’s Stance on Dual Citizenship
- Eligibility Criteria for Dual Citizenship in Spain
- Spain vs. EU Countries (Who allows dual nationality?)
- Benefits of Dual Citizenship in Spain
- Potential Drawbacks of Dual Citizenship in Spain
- Application Process for Dual Citizenship
- Conclusion
- Frequently Asked Questions About Dual Citizenship in Spain
Spain’s Stance on Dual Citizenship
In Spain, dual citizenship is recognized, but it’s subject to specific guidelines, and only certain groups are eligible for this privilege.
Typically, when you apply for Spanish citizenship, you are expected to renounce your original citizenship. This reflects Spain’s desire for applicants to fully commit to their new national identity.
However, there are exceptions to this rule. Spain allows certain individuals from countries with historical and cultural connections to retain their original citizenship alongside their new Spanish one.
So, who are these groups? Let’s explore them in more detail.
Eligibility Criteria for Dual Citizenship in Spain
By Country of Origin
Spain allows dual citizenship for individuals from certain countries and groups with historical and cultural ties to Spain. This includes:
- Ibero-American Countries**
- Portugal
- Andorra
- The Philippines
- Equatorial Guinea
**Important Note: For the purposes of acquiring dual nationality, Haiti, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, and Guyana are not considered Ibero-American countries, whereas Puerto Rico is considered Ibero-American.
These agreements reflect shared histories and facilitate easier integration of citizens from these countries into Spanish society.
Residency Requirement
To qualify for dual citizenship, applicants typically need to have legally resided in Spain for a continuous period, usually ten years. However, this period can be reduced to 2 years for nationals from the above countries.
Other Requirements
Applicants must also meet several other criteria to ensure they are well-prepared to integrate into and contribute to Spanish society:
- Birth Certificate: A certified copy of the birth certificate is required to verify the applicant’s identity and nationality.
- Cultural Integration: Applicants must pass the CCSE cultural exam unless they have completed higher education or schooling in Spain, demonstrating familiarity with Spanish culture, history, and governance.
- Language Proficiency: The DELE A2 Spanish language test is mandatory, ensuring the applicant can communicate effectively in Spanish.
- Criminal Background Check: A clean record in both Spain and the applicant’s home country is necessary to establish their good standing.
- Valid Passport and Residency Authorization: A current passport and, if applicable, a Spanish residency authorization card (TIE) are required for those applying through residency.
- Citizenship Fee: Applicants must pay a fee, typically around €100, which covers the administrative costs of processing the citizenship application.
Want to know if you qualify? Our Spanish Citizenship service page has the full list of eligibility requirements plus answers to your most asked questions.
Spain vs. EU Countries (Who allows dual nationality?)
| Country | Allows Dual Nationality | Exceptions/Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Austria | No (with exceptions) | Permitted in cases of extraordinary merit or when it is impossible to renounce previous citizenship. |
| Belgium | Yes | None |
| Bulgaria | Yes (with exceptions) | Bulgaria generally does not permit dual citizenship for naturalized citizens, but exceptions include spouses of Bulgarian citizens, citizens of EU member states, and citizens of countries with which Bulgaria has treaties of reciprocity. |
| Croatia | Yes (with exceptions) | Those acquiring Croatian citizenship through naturalization may need to renounce their previous citizenship, dependent on the laws of the other country. |
| Cyprus | Yes | None |
| Czech Republic | Yes | None |
| Denmark | Yes | None |
| Estonia | Yes (with exceptions) | Naturalized citizens must renounce previous nationality, except for minors and refugees. Citizens by birth can retain nationality. |
| Finland | Yes | None |
| France | Yes | None |
| Germany | Yes | None |
| Greece | Yes | None |
| Hungary | Yes | None |
| Ireland | Yes | None |
| Italy | Yes | None |
| Latvia | Yes (with exceptions) | Dual citizenship is allowed with EU, EFTA, NATO, Australia, Brazil, NZ. Renunciation required unless obtained through marriage, adoption, or special permission. |
| Lithuania | No (with exceptions) | Dual citizenship is allowed under strict conditions, such as for those who left Lithuania before 1990 and their descendants. |
| Luxembourg | Yes | None |
| Malta | Yes | None |
| Netherlands | No (with exceptions) | Dutch naturalization generally requires renouncing other citizenships. Exceptions include if renunciation is legally impossible, or in cases of marriage/civil partnership with a Dutch national, and for recognized refugees. |
| Poland | Yes | None |
| Portugal | Yes | None |
| Romania | Yes | None |
| Slovakia | Yes (with exceptions) | Dual nationality is allowed in Slovakia so long as it is obtained automatically through birth or marriage. |
| Slovenia | Yes | None |
| Spain | No (with exceptions) | Dual nationality is allowed with Ibero-American countries*, Andorra, the Philippines, Equatorial Guinea, and Portugal under specific agreements |
| Sweden | Yes | None |
Benefits of Dual Citizenship in Spain
Holding dual citizenship in Spain offers several privileges that enhance both your lifestyle and your legal rights. Here’s how it can benefit you:
Freedom of Movement
Enjoy the right to live, work, and travel freely within the European Union. With a Spanish passport, you will also benefit from visa-free travel to over 190 countries.
Social Benefits
Gain eligibility for Spain’s healthcare and social services, ensuring access to the same medical care and social security benefits enjoyed by Spanish citizens.
Property Ownership
Experience simplified processes for owning property in Spain. This benefit makes it easier for dual citizens to buy homes and invest in real estate, securing a residence or making strategic investments in one of Europe’s prime locations.
Political Participation
Gain the right to vote and participate in political activities in Spain. This allows you to have a say in the electoral processes and become actively involved in shaping the governance of the country.
Retention of Original Nationality
This is particularly advantageous as it allows you to maintain your ties with your home country while enjoying the benefits of Spanish citizenship.
Potential Drawbacks of Dual Citizenship in Spain
While dual citizenship offers numerous benefits, it also comes with certain complexities that you should be aware of as an applicant. Here are some of the challenges you might face:
Taxation
Holding citizenship in two countries can sometimes lead to double taxation, depending on the tax treaties between Spain and your country of origin. This means you might have to navigate complex tax obligations in both countries, which can increase your financial and administrative burden.
Legal Obligations
As a dual citizen, you’re subject to the legal systems of both countries. This might include obligations like military service or other national duties, depending on each country’s laws. Understanding and managing these responsibilities can be challenging and require careful planning.
Bureaucratic Complexities
Managing legal documentation across two countries can be tedious. You’ll need to ensure compliance with the laws of both nations, which might involve maintaining two sets of legal documents, undergoing various administrative processes, and possibly dealing with conflicting legal requirements.
These drawbacks don’t necessarily overshadow the benefits of dual citizenship, but they do require consideration and careful management.
Application Process for Dual Citizenship
The process for obtaining dual citizenship in Spain mirrors the general process for acquiring Spanish nationality. The key difference is that you retain your original nationality. Here’s how you can navigate the steps:
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Obtain Legal Residency in Spain:
The first step towards dual citizenship is to secure legal residency in Spain. This involves obtaining a residence visa or permit that allows you to live in Spain legally.
2. Fulfill the Required Residency Period
Depending on your nationality and the specific criteria, you’ll need to live in Spain for a certain number of years to qualify for citizenship. Typically, this is ten years, but for all the countries we mentioned above, this time is reduced to 2 years.
3. Prepare Necessary Documentation:
Gather all required documents, which typically include:
- Your birth certificate, often needing official translation and legalization.
- Proof of legal residency in Spain.
- Results from the DELE A2 language test demonstrating your Spanish language proficiency.
- Results from the CCSE test proving your knowledge of Spanish society and culture.
- A criminal background check from Spain and your country of origin.
4. Submit the Citizenship Application
Once all documents are prepared, submit your citizenship application to the appropriate Spanish authorities. This might be done online or at a designated government office, depending on your location and the available services.
Post-Approval
5. Take the Oath of Allegiance to Spain:
As the final step, once your application is approved, you’ll need to take an oath of allegiance to Spain, which is a formal declaration of your commitment to uphold the Spanish Constitution and laws. Once you take your oath, you will be issued with a Spanish birth certificate.
Conclusion
Dual citizenship in Spain opens doors to new freedoms and responsibilities. It allows you to work, travel, and enjoy social benefits across the EU while maintaining ties to your home country. Yet, the process involves careful consideration of eligibility, compliance with specific requirements, and understanding legal implications.
For a stress-free journey towards obtaining dual citizenship, consult with our expert immigration lawyers using the form below. They can offer tailored advice, helping you navigate the process and ensuring your application is successful.
Whether you’re ready to move forward or just exploring your options, you’ll find everything you need on our Spanish Citizenship service page — or simply fill out the form below to speak with our team.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dual Citizenship in Spain
What if my country of origin does not have a dual citizenship agreement with Spain?
If your country is not among those that have special agreements with Spain, you will typically need to renounce your original nationality upon acquiring Spanish citizenship.
Do children born in Spain to dual citizens automatically receive dual citizenship?
Children born in Spain to dual citizens generally acquire Spanish citizenship automatically. However, the citizenship status of the child regarding the other country depends on that country’s laws regarding citizenship by birth abroad.
How long does it take to get dual citizenship in Spain?
The process typically takes around one year, but many applications are processed within 4 to 5 months if all documents are correctly submitted and all criteria are comprehensively met.
How does dual citizenship affect my tax obligations?
Dual citizens must comply with tax obligations in both countries. Understanding the tax treaty between Spain and your other country of citizenship is crucial to avoid issues with double taxation.
Is there a special process for renewing my Spanish passport as a dual citizen?
The process for renewing a Spanish passport for dual citizens is the same as for other Spanish citizens. You will need to ensure your passport is renewed before it expires to maintain valid travel documentation.