Spain has introduced a new policy allowing citizens of 23 countries to apply for citizenship after just two years of legal residence. This is a significant reduction from the standard 10-year period required for most foreign nationals. The new rules are outlined on the Spanish Ministry of the Presidency, Justice and Relations with the Courts' official website. To be eligible, applicants must meet certain requirements, including passing integration tests set by the Instituto Cervantes.
The two-year residency period applies to nationals of 19 Latin American countries, including Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay, and Venezuela. Additionally, nationals of Andorra, the Philippines, Equatorial Guinea, and Portugal are also eligible for the fast-track citizenship route.
People of Sephardic origin are also eligible for the fast-track citizenship route under a separate category. Most other foreign nationals must complete 10 years of continuous legal residence before applying for citizenship. However, refugees can apply for citizenship after five years of residence. This new policy aims to simplify the citizenship process for nationals from certain countries and promote integration.
To be granted Spanish nationality, applicants must swear allegiance to the King of Spain and pledge to respect the Constitution and the country's laws. They are also generally required to renounce their previous nationality. However, this requirement does not apply to nationals of the 23 listed countries or to people of Sephardic origin, who may retain dual nationality.
In other news, Spain's minimum wage has increased by 3.1% from the previous year, according to a Royal Decree published in the Official State Gazette. The new rate applies to workers across all sectors and took effect from January 1, 2026. This increase aims to improve the living standards of workers in Spain.
The new policy has been well-received by nationals from the eligible countries, who can now look forward to obtaining Spanish citizenship more quickly. This can provide them with greater freedom to live and work in Spain, as well as access to the country's high standard of living and education system.
The Spanish government's decision to introduce this policy is seen as a move to attract more foreign talent and investment to the country. By offering fast-track citizenship to nationals from certain countries, Spain aims to strengthen its ties with these nations and promote economic growth.
Key points
- Spain offers fast-track citizenship to nationals from 23 countries, allowing them to apply after two years of legal residence.
- The fast-track citizenship route applies to nationals of 19 Latin American countries, as well as Andorra, the Philippines, Equatorial Guinea, and Portugal.
- Spain's minimum wage has increased by 3.1% from the previous year, taking effect from January 1, 2026.
