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How to get your Spanish Citizenship by descent | Global RCG

22 March 2023
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Discovery how to access the freedom and security mobility asset

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to travel the world without having to worry about visa requirements? Well, if you have Spanish citizenship by descent, that dream could become a reality. As a Spanish citizen, you would be able to visit 161 visa-free countries, including many of the world's most popular tourist destinations. And, best of all, you wouldn't have to spend hours filling out paperwork or going through tedious interview processes. So, if you're looking for a way to make your travel dreams come true, getting a Spanish citizenship by descent may be the answer.

Spain is a country that has cast an ancient spell on English and German tourists yearning for some sliver of sunshine. The architecture, especially the work done by Antoni Gaudi combined with Moorish influences can be world class; however it's not only their culture which captivates visitors from around the globe - but also tapas! Ham Iberico (the best ham in all Spain) definitely makes this land worth visiting again and again.

Its rich history, diverse topography, and overall beauty make Spain an alluring and attractive destination for tourists and retirees. If you have Spanish blood in your veins, we will discuss your option in getting for spanish citizenship.

Article 17 of the Spanish Civil Code specifies that you are a Spanish citizen by origin (sometimes known as "by birth") if you meet one of the following conditions:

  • You were born to at least one Spanish parent, regardless of your location of birth.
  • Your parents are not Spanish, yet you were born in Spain and at least one of them was also born there (this does not apply to the children of diplomats).

(Again, please note that we do not cover exceptional situations, such as when neither of your biological parents is known or if you were adopted. If so, please refer to the law's entire text for further information.)

Spanish Dual Citizenship is permitted for all Spaniards by origin.

The rules are not much different from those of the majority of European nations.

What happens if your grandfather or great-grandfather was a Spanish citizen?

You are currently out of luck in this situation. However, you may soon have more options.

The new legislative proposal titled "Law of Grandchildren" (in Spanish) is anticipated to be enacted over the next few months.

When this occurs, the legislation will let the grandchildren (and possibly the great-grandchildren) of Spanish nationals claim Spanish citizenship. We will keep you apprised of any relevant developments.

Remember that you may already be eligible for accelerated naturalization in the United States.

If you are a citizen of a Spanish-speaking country in the Americas (including Puerto Rico), Brazil, Portugal, Andorra, the Philippines, or Equatorial Guinea, or if you are a Sephardic Jew with a connection to Spain, you can become a Spanish citizen in just two years.

In addition to faster naturalization timelines, this option has an additional benefit: people of these nations will not be required to relinquish their former nationality. (Generally, Spain does not permit dual nationality.)

Timelines:

The timeline is reduced to one year if:

  • You were born in Spanish territory, OR
  • You have been married to a Spanish national for at least one year, OR
  • You are the widow(er) of a Spanish national, OR
  • You were born outside of Spain but one of your parents or grandparents was Spanish at birth (Spanish by origin), OR
  • You were born outside of Spain but one of your parents or grandparents was Spanish at birth (Spanish by origin), OR
  • Unless you are from a Spanish-speaking country in the Americas, Brazil, Portugal, Andorra, the Philippines, Equatorial Guinea, or you are a Sephardic Jew, Spain will require you to renounce your present citizenship upon acquiring Spanish citizenship.

Though acquiring citizenship is not always easy, it can be incredibly rewarding both emotionally and financially. If you are interested in learning more about the process or would like help applying, please visit our website for more information on how we can assist you. We look forward to helping you take this important step towards a better future. What part of the process was most confusing to you? Let us know in the comments below!

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“I feel like I literally owe my Spanish passport to Global RCG. If I had relied solely on the text in the newly-passed legislation passed last year called "La Ley de Nietos", I would have never have applied. Thanks to Global RCG, I learned that in fact, I'm perfectly eligible!”

Alex Arriaga

Washington, DC | Spanish Citizenship y Descent program