This article predates a change in the law and is awaiting an update. For a specific case, the Firm should be consulted.
Machine translation awaiting review.
Are you Italian or of another nationality and have you been living in Spain for some time and are thinking about becoming a Spanish citizen, rather than just a resident? We explain the steps to follow. Although you already have your foreigner identification number (NIE) and your passport from your country of origin, you may want to obtain a full DNI like the rest of Spanish citizens, whether for tax, legal reasons or simply because you have fallen so in love with the country that you just want to adapt better. These are the steps you must follow to obtain Spanish nationality.
Right by birth
If your parents are Spanish or only one of them is, you are immediately entitled to a Spanish passport. Likewise, if you were born on Spanish territory, even if your parents are not Spanish, you also have the possibility of obtaining nationality. Furthermore, Spain has a special treaty with Sephardic Jews who originally came from the area and later emigrated; anyone who can trace their ancestors in this lineage can apply for Spanish citizenship. However, one had to apply before October 1, 2018, because there is currently a bill going through the Spanish Parliament to amend this law.
Marriage
Another way to obtain Spanish citizenship is to marry a Spaniard, although it should be noted that marrying only for paperwork is illegal, and can be severely prosecuted if caught. Marry a Spaniard only if the relationship is serious. If you are Italian and want to marry a Spaniard or marry in Spain we can advise you.
Permanent residence
If you have lived in Spain for 10 years, with at least five registered as "permanent residents", you can apply to become a citizen. In fact, this type of permanent residence permit offers all the same advantages as full citizenship, so consider carefully whether you really want to obtain a passport or simply be a resident. All you need is to prove that you can support yourself financially, as well as have a clean Italian criminal record or from another country where you have lived, an Italian passport or from your country and medical coverage. This supporting documentation must be submitted to the local Civil Registry along with this form completed in Spanish and a fee of between 60 and 100 euros.