Procedure: Spanish citizenship
Sworn translation for citizenship applications
Foreign documents included in a citizenship application may require translation and, depending on their origin, legalization, an apostille or an exemption. There is no single list for every form of acquisition or every personal situation.
Forms of acquisition that must be distinguished
- Citizenship by residence
- Citizenship by option
- Citizenship by discretionary grant
- Citizenship by possession of status
- Citizenship of origin in the cases established by law
Documents that may form part of the application
- Birth certificate
- Criminal-record certificates required for the specific route
- Marriage certificate, where relevant
- Documents concerning parentage or representation
- Decisions changing a name or civil status
- Other documents required by the Ministry of Justice
Marriage to a Spanish citizen does not in itself constitute a separate form called ‘citizenship by marriage.’ In certain cases, it may shorten the residence period required to apply for citizenship by residence. The situation must be checked against the official rules and guidance.
Frequently asked questions
Does Spanish citizenship by marriage exist?
Not as a separate form of acquisition. Marriage may affect the residence period required for an application based on residence when the legal conditions are met.
Which criminal-record certificates must I submit?
This depends on the route, the applicant’s residence history and personal circumstances. Use the Ministry of Justice’s official information or consult a qualified professional.
Will the translation correct differences in my surnames?
The translation must reflect the original. We can maintain consistent transliteration and point out discrepancies, but we cannot alter civil-registry data.