FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
ANSWERS TO THE MOST COMMON QUESTIONS WE RECEIVE ABOUT SPANISH CITIZENSHIP
Can Americans hold dual citizenship in Spain?
Yes, Spanish nationality law allows dual citizenship, and American law does, too. That means you can hold both USA and Spanish citizenship simultaneously.
Do I qualify for Spanish dual citizenship?
That depends. Qualification for Spanish citizenship is based on a handful of major pathways: naturalization (this is open to anybody, but the length of residency required changes based on where you come from), descent from Spanish ancestors (the recent Ley de Nietos now allows you to qualify up to 3 generations back), or marriage to a Spanish citizen (provided you’ve lived together in legal residence in Spain for a year). You can learn more about these pathways for getting Spanish citizenship.
How do I apply for dual citizenship in the US?
Your entire application process will happen at your nearest Spanish consulate or embassy. You can schedule an appointment to get started. We have an entire article on the Spanish citizenship application process.
How can I get Spanish citizenship?
You can qualify through naturalization after 10 years of residency (a Golden Visa can help streamline this process), direct descent (parent, grandparent, or in some cases great-grandparent thanks to recent changes to the law), or marriage to a Spanish citizen.
How do I qualify for a Spanish Golden Visa?
You’ll need to make an investment meeting one of these criteria:
- Real Estate: Minimum investment of €500,000
- Business: Minimum investment of €1 million, generating jobs, innovation, or socio-economic impact
- Spanish Public Debt: Minimum investment of €2 million
- Stocks/Shares/Bank Deposits: Minimum investment of €1 million in Spanish companies, funds, or banks
Learn more in our complete guide to the Spanish Golden Visa program here.
How long does it take to get Spanish dual citizenship?
Spanish citizenship applications typically take between 12 to 36 months to process, though processing times can vary based on your specific situation and the current administrative workload.
How much does it cost to get Spanish citizenship?
The basic application fee is approximately €102. Additional costs may arise from document requirements such as translations, apostilles, and certifications.
Can an American get dual citizenship in Spain?
Yes. Neither the USA or Spain limits dual citizenship.
Are you a Spanish citizen if you are born in Spain?
Not automatically. But if your parents are citizens or they don’t have any citizenship, you’ll automatically become a Spanish citizen. If you weren’t registered when you were born, you can likely restore your citizenship now.
How long do you have to live in Spain to become a citizen?
The majority of naturalization cases take 10 years of permitted residency. This period is reduced for certain categories: 2 years for nationals of Latin American countries, Andorra, the Philippines, Equatorial Guinea, Portugal, or persons of Sephardic origin; 1 year for those married to Spanish citizens; and 5 years for refugees.
Is dual citizenship allowed in Spain?
Yes, though Spain has traditionally been more restrictive about dual citizenship than Portugal. However, it is fully permitted for citizens from certain countries and situations.
Can I get Spanish citizenship if my child is Spanish?
While not automatic, having a Spanish child can provide a pathway to a visa through family reunification, which can start qualifying for the residency requirement needing for naturalization.
Can I live in Spain as an American citizen?
Yes! Americans can stay in Spain for up to 90 days without a visa under the Schengen Agreement. For longer stays, you’ll need a residence permit, with special options available for workers, students, family members, freelancers, digital nomads, retirees, and investors.
Just be careful that you understand the tax implications for earning a living while living in Spain.
Is Spain expensive to live in?
That’s a matter of perspective, but compared to the United States, Spain is more affordable. A single person’s monthly expenses before rent typically range from €700-900, depending on the location. Whereas the average rent in the US sits at $1,553 per month (about €1,500).
Can a US citizen work in Spain?
Yes, but it presents some complications worth considering. You’ll need to maintain an appropriate work visa or residence permit throughout your stay.
What is a good salary in Spain?
The average salary in Spain is approximately €2,250 per month, or €27,000 per year.
Can Americans buy property in Spain?
Yes, there are no restrictions on foreigners buying property in Spain, and this can be a pathway to residency through the Golden Visa program.
Can a US citizen retire in Spain?
Absolutely, Spain’s excellent healthcare system, pleasant climate, and reasonable cost of living make it an attractive retirement destination for Americans. There are even special visas that make this transition easier.
Does Spain use the euro?
Yes, Spain officially changed its currency to the euro on January 1, 2002. That’s helped its economy reach new heights—it is now the sixth largest in Europe and the 14th largest in the world.
Does Spain require a visa?
If you are a US citizen, you don’t need a visa for stays under 90 days. But beyond that, you will need a visa or residence permit.
