Spain has introduced a new citizenship pathway that significantly shortens the wait for eligible foreigners. Nationals from a select group of countries can benefit from a much faster route to Spanish nationality. This special arrangement is linked to Spain's historical, cultural, and linguistic ties with the countries involved. The new pathway allows nationals of certain countries to apply for Spanish nationality after just two years of legal residence.
The 23 countries covered by the nationality rule include Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Equatorial Guinea, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Portugal, the Philippines, Uruguay, and Venezuela. Spain's government classifies these countries under the relevant categories for the shortened residency period. This is a significant reduction from the standard 10-year legal residence requirement that applies to most foreign nationals.
Under Spain's general rule, foreign nationals normally need 10 years of legal residence before they can apply for citizenship by residence. However, the requirement is reduced to five years for people who have been granted refugee status, while nationals of the listed countries can qualify after two years of legal residence. Applicants must also meet other requirements, including demonstrating good civic conduct and sufficient integration into Spanish society.
Successful applicants can retain their original nationality, as Spain has special rules on dual nationality for nationals of Latin American countries, Andorra, the Philippines, Equatorial Guinea, and Portugal. According to Spain's Ministry of Justice, nationals of these countries do not have to renounce their previous nationality when acquiring Spanish nationality. Sephardic applicants covered by the relevant provisions are also exempt from the renunciation requirement.
Applicants who are granted Spanish nationality must swear or promise allegiance to the King of Spain and obedience to the Spanish Constitution and laws. The acquisition must then be registered in the Spanish Civil Registry before the person can obtain Spanish nationality documents, including a Spanish passport. This process allows individuals to fully integrate into Spanish society and enjoy the rights and benefits of Spanish citizenship.
Notably, only one African country, Equatorial Guinea, is included in the list of countries whose citizens can benefit from the fast-track citizenship route. YEN.com.gh reported that Spain's government confirmed Equatorial Guinea's inclusion, providing a rare and significant advantage for its citizens. Applicants from Equatorial Guinea still have to meet three core requirements, including passing a sociocultural integration test.
The introduction of this fast-track citizenship pathway is a significant development for individuals from the 23 eligible countries, including Ghana. This new route provides an opportunity for people to acquire Spanish nationality in a shorter period, promoting cultural exchange, economic cooperation, and stronger ties between Spain and these countries. As Salifu Bagulube Moro, a Current Affairs Editor at YEN.com.gh, reported, this development has important implications for individuals seeking Spanish citizenship.
Key points
- Spain introduces fast-track citizenship for 23 countries, including one African nation, after just two years of residence.
- The 23 eligible countries include Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, and Equatorial Guinea.
- Successful applicants can retain their original nationality, with some exceptions.
