(Last chance before its elimination!)
If you are the child, grandchild, or even great-grandchild of Spanish citizens, you may still be eligible to obtain Spanish citizenship by descent. However, the Spanish Government has announced the expected elimination of this procedure on October 22, 2025. This means you will only be able to obtain nationality through this route if you submit your application before that date.
To do so, you need to carefully gather all official documents that prove your family connection and meet the requirements set by the Spanish Civil Registry. In this article, you will find a detailed checklist of the necessary documentation, the most common mistakes to avoid, and how Orience can support you at every step to ensure your file is complete and accepted on time.
Why it’s urgent to prepare your documents now
The process of obtaining Spanish citizenship by descent requires precision and can take several months. A mistake in a birth certificate, an incorrect apostille, or a non-certified translation could cause fatal delays that prevent you from submitting your application on time.
Since the current regulation will end on October 22, 2025, it is essential that all your documentation is ready and submitted before that date. Starting now could make the difference between obtaining your Spanish passport or missing this opportunity forever.
At Orience, we have supported hundreds of families through this process and know how to optimize each step so that your file is complete, accurate, and submitted within the legal timeframe.
Essential document checklist for Spanish citizenship by descent
1. Literal birth certificate of the Spanish ancestor
This essential document proves the Spanish origin. It must be issued by the Spanish Civil Registry (it can be requested online or by mail). Without it, you cannot establish the necessary legal link.
2. Applicant’s birth certificate
It must be original, legalized or apostilled, and translated into Spanish if in another language. It verifies your identity and direct connection to the Spanish ancestor.
3. Intermediate birth certificates (parent, grandparent, etc.)
Depending on your generation, you will need to provide the birth certificates that connect your family line to the Spanish citizen. All must be apostilled/legalized and translated into Spanish if necessary.
4. Applicant’s identity document
You may submit your valid passport or national ID card. It must be current and in good condition.
5. Criminal record certificate
Issued by your current country of residence, duly apostilled or legalized. In some cases, a certified translation is required.
6. Certificate of residence registration (if residing in Spain)
This proves your residence in Spain if you are submitting the application within the country.
7. Official application form
This is the official form you must complete and sign. At Orience, we help you fill it out correctly to avoid errors.
8. Additional evidence (if required)
In certain cases, additional documentation may be required, such as:
- Family book.
- Death certificates (if any ancestors have passed away).
- Documentation proving the Spanish citizen’s emigration.
- Judgments or court rulings recognizing prior legal relationships.
Common mistakes that could cause you to miss the deadline
- Failing to apostille or legalize foreign documents.
- Submitting non-certified translations, which could invalidate your file.
- Incorrect data on birth certificates (dates, names, etc.).
- Incomplete or poorly written forms.
- Expired documents, especially criminal records or residence certificates.
At Orience, we thoroughly review each document to avoid these mistakes and ensure your application proceeds smoothly.
How Orience helps you with your application
Time is limited and every detail matters. With Orience:
- We verify your eligibility from the very first step.
- We provide a personalized checklist based on your country and family situation.
- We assist you with obtaining, legalizing, and translating every document.
- We review your file before submission to the consulate or Civil Registry.
- We handle the appointment, submission, and follow-up process.
Our specialized legal team and international network of partners will help you move forward quickly and accurately, maximizing your chances of success.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I submit photocopies if they are legible?
No. The Civil Registry only accepts originals or certified copies. Simple photocopies are not legally valid.
How far in advance should I gather the documents?
Some documents have a limited validity period (for example, criminal records or residence certificates usually expire after 3-6 months). Ideally, you should start the process at least 4 to 6 months in advance.
What happens if there are errors in a document?
You may need to request a correction or provide additional evidence. At Orience, we analyze each case and guide you towards the best solution.
Where should I submit the documents if I live outside Spain?
At the Spanish consulate corresponding to your place of residence. All documentation must meet the legal requirements established by the consulate.
What happens if I don’t submit my application before October 22, 2025?
You will lose the opportunity to obtain Spanish citizenship by descent. That’s why we strongly recommend starting the process as soon as possible to ensure your file is registered before the deadline.
Conclusion
Spanish citizenship by descent is a unique opportunity that is about to disappear. If you meet the requirements, now is the time to act. With this checklist and Orience’s expert support, you can prepare a complete application and avoid mistakes that could make you miss this last chance.
Contact us today and make sure you submit your application before October 22, 2025.