Differences between Spanish citizenship and Spanish residency

When you are considering a move to Spain, it's crucial to understand the distinctions between Spanish citizenship and Spanish residency. Both statuses grant the right to live in Spain, but they come with different rights, obligations, and benefits. Next, we will explore both possibilities, reviewing how you can obtain each status, the benefits they offer, and the specific pathways to achieve Spanish citizenship.

What is the difference between citizenship and permanent residency?

The main differences between the two concepts are related to the length of stay in Spain and the services they provide access to. These are, in general terms, their distinguishing features:

• Citizenship: Grants full rights, including voting, unlimited residency, and EU mobility.
• Permanent residency: Allows indefinite stay and access to many public services but with limitations on political rights and EU mobility.

Understanding Spanish residency

Spanish residency, or a "residence permit," allows non-citizens to legally reside in Spain for extended periods. Residency can be temporary or permanent, depending on the duration and purpose of your stay.

Types of Spanish residency

There are essentially two categories: temporary and permanent.

• Temporary residency: This permits residence in Spain for a period ranging from 90 days to five years. Renewal can be applied for upon meeting the minimum conditions, such as having sufficient financial means of your own. It is suitable if you plan to stay in Spain for a short to medium term, including for purposes such as studying, temporary work, or seasonal employment.
• Permanent residency: This is granted after five years of continuous, legal residence in Spain. It allows you to stay indefinitely and provides access to most social services.

Remember that if you are not a citizen of the European Union, including Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland, you will need a visa to enter the country.

How to obtain Spanish residency

Consider that, to obtain a Spanish residence permit, you will have to follow a series of complex stages. The most important of these are:

1. Apply for the appropriate visa: Depending on your purpose of stay, apply for a specific visa. Common visas include work visas, student visas, and family reunification visas.
2. Register with local authorities: Upon arriving in Spain, register with the local municipality (empadronamiento) and apply for a Foreigner Identification Number (NIE), crucial for various administrative processes.
3. Submit required documentation: Typically includes proof of financial means, health insurance, a valid passport, and sometimes a background check.

For more information,you can read our comprehensive step-by-step guide on how to obtain residency in Spain.

What are the requirements for maintaining Spanish residency?

To maintain permanent residency, you must:

1. Renew your permit: Ensure timely renewal of your residency permit as required.
2. Maintain continuous residence: Avoid long absences from Spain, as these can jeopardise your residency status.
3. Comply with legal obligations: Adhere to Spanish laws and regulations, including tax obligations.

Delving into Spanish citizenship

Spanish citizenship grants you full rights as a citizen of Spain. This includes the right to vote in national elections, access to public healthcare and education, and live and work anywhere in the European Union.

How to obtain Spanish citizenship

There are several pathways to obtain Spanish citizenship, each with specific criteria. Here are the main methods:

1. By birth: Individuals born in Spain to Spanish parents automatically acquire Spanish citizenship.
2. By descent: Children born abroad to Spanish parents may also be eligible for citizenship.
3. By marriage: Foreign nationals married to a Spanish citizen can apply for citizenship after one year of marriage and residency in Spain.
4. By naturalisation: The most common method for foreigners, involving residing in Spain for a certain period, usually ten years. The period can be reduced to one to five years for refugees, individuals from Ibero-American countries, or those with special circumstances.
5. By option: Available for descendants of Spanish nationals or those under Spanish guardianship.

Detailed steps to obtain Spanish citizenship

To successfully apply for Spanish citizenship, you need to follow a series of detailed steps. Each of them aims to ensure that you meet all the legal requirements and demonstrate your integration into Spanish society. Here are the key steps:

1. Reside in Spain legally: Ensure you meet the minimum residency requirement (typically ten years, with exceptions).
2. Demonstrate integration: Show integration into Spanish society, including knowledge of Spanish culture, language proficiency (DELE A2 or higher), and community participation.
3. Submit an application: Provide necessary documents, such as proof of residency, a clean criminal record, birth certificates, and any other relevant documents specified by the authorities.
4. Pass required tests: These may include the CCSE (Constitutional and Sociocultural Knowledge of Spain) and a language proficiency test.

Benefits of obtaining Spanish citizenship

Obtaining Spanish citizenship provides a wide range of benefits, enhancing your rights and privileges both within Spain and across the European Union. Here are the key advantages:

Enhanced rights and privileges

Becoming a Spanish citizen provides numerous advantages, including enhanced rights and privileges. Here are the main ones:

1. Voting rights: As a Spanish citizen, you can participate in all national, regional, and local elections, fully engaging in the democratic process.
2. EU mobility: You gain the right to live and work in any European Union country without needing additional permits.
3. Social benefits: Full access to public healthcare and educational benefits is guaranteed.
4. Legal security: Citizenship offers greater legal security and stability compared to residency.
5. Economic benefits: Increased job prospects and access to social security benefits provide financial stability and support.
6. Cultural integration: Deeper integration and acceptance within Spanish society foster a sense of belonging and community.

Simplified travel

Spanish citizens enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to numerous countries worldwide, facilitating international travel. This is particularly beneficial for frequent travellers and business professionals.

Various international indexes point to the Spanish passport as one of the most powerful in the world. This qualification has to do with the number of countries it is possible to visit without the need for a visa or other additional requirements. According to the Henly & Partners ranking of 2024, the Spanish document occupies second place in the world, only behind that of Singapore, by allowing visa-free entry into 192 countries. The Visa Guide Passport Index, meanwhile, ranks the Spanish passport in first place, ahead of Germany.

Dual nationality

Spain allows dual nationality with certain countries, mainly those in Latin America, Andorra, the Philippines, Equatorial Guinea, and Portugal. This means you can retain your original nationality while acquiring Spanish citizenship, enjoying the benefits of both.

For individuals from other countries, Spanish law typically requires the renunciation of the original nationality upon acquiring Spanish citizenship in most cases.

Differences between Spanish citizenship and permanent residency

Understanding the differences between Spanish citizenship and permanent residency is crucial when deciding your long-term status in Spain. While both allow you to live in Spain, they come with distinct rights, responsibilities, and processes. The following table highlights the key differences between these two statuses:

Rights and responsibilities comparison

The table below provides a clear comparison of the rights and responsibilities associated with Spanish citizenship and permanent residency:

Security and stability

Citizenship provides a more secure status than permanent residency. Permanent residency can be revoked if you leave Spain for an extended period, whereas citizenship is generally permanent unless voluntarily renounced or revoked under extreme circumstances.

Time and process

Obtaining citizenship is usually a longer and more complex process compared to obtaining permanent residency. In fact, with some exceptions, such as for individuals from Ibero-American countries, it is not possible to apply before ten years of residence in the country. Residency can often be obtained relatively quickly through employment, study, or investment, whereas citizenship requires a more extended period of continuous residence and integration into Spanish society.

The value of expert guidance

Understanding the differences between Spanish citizenship and Spanish residency is essential if you are considering a long-term stay in Spain. While both statuses provide the right to live in Spain, citizenship offers broader rights, greater stability, and enhanced benefits. Whether you choose to pursue permanent residency or aim to obtain Spanish citizenship, it's crucial to understand the requirements and benefits associated with each status.

Whether you are seeking to establish a life in Spain temporarily or permanently, having the right information will help you make the best decision for your future.

However, managing the complexities of Spanish citizenship and residency can be challenging. Seeking advice from immigration experts or legal professionals can provide valuable insights and ensure a smoother application process. Understanding the nuances of Spanish law and the requirements for each status can significantly enhance your chances of a successful transition to life in Spain.

By thoroughly understanding the distinctions and benefits of Spanish citizenship and residency, you can make informed decisions that align with your personal and professional goals. Whether you seek the stability and security of citizenship or the flexibility of residency, Spain offers a welcoming environment and numerous opportunities for those willing to embrace its vibrant culture and lifestyle.

For more helpful information on all aspects of relocating, including visas, housing, and legal requirements, visit our section on Moving to Spain.