If you are a descendant of Spaniards and have ever thought about obtaining Spanish citizenship, now is the time to act. The current law that allows access to citizenship by descent will be cancelled in October 2025. This means you only have a few months to start and complete your application before the deadline expires. In this article, we explain how to speed up your process, what documentation you need, and how Orience can help you manage everything without surprises.
What does Spanish citizenship by descent consist of?
Spanish citizenship by descent allows children, grandchildren, or great-grandchildren of Spanish citizens to obtain nationality without the need to reside in Spain beforehand. This possibility, supported by historical laws and more recently by the Democratic Memory Law, has enabled thousands of people in Latin America and other countries with migration ties to recover their legal bond with Spain.
Why is it urgent to submit your application before October 2025?
The current regulation that facilitates access to citizenship by descent is temporary. The deadline ends in October 2025, and no extension is expected. This implies that:
- Only complete applications submitted before that date will be accepted.
- Demand at consulates and civil registries is increasing, which may cause delays.
- Incomplete or poorly managed files may be excluded from the process.
Acting now is the only way to secure your right.
Step by step: how to speed up your Spanish citizenship application
1. Check your eligibility
To access citizenship by descent, you need to prove that you are the child, grandchild, or great-grandchild of Spanish citizens. This is done with birth certificates, consular certificates and, in some cases, documents proving that your ancestors emigrated for political or economic reasons.
2. Gather the necessary documentation
The key documents are:
- Birth certificates for each generation (duly legalized or apostilled).
- Current identity documentation of the applicant.
- Literal birth certificate of the Spanish citizen from whom descent is claimed (issued by the Spanish Civil Registry).
- Documents that prove the complete family link.
In many cases, this collection takes weeks or months. That is why it is important to start as soon as possible.
3. Submit your application at the corresponding consulate or civil registry
If you live outside Spain, the application is submitted to the Spanish consulate in your country. If you live in Spain, it is processed at the Civil Registry of your place of residence. Appointments may be in high demand, so Orience recommends scheduling as soon as possible.
4. Track your file
Once the documentation is submitted, your file will be reviewed. Any error, missing document or inconsistency can slow down the process or even invalidate it. This is where Orience’s guidance makes the difference.
How does Orience help you obtain your citizenship without setbacks?
The legal and administrative team at Orience specializes in citizenship by descent processes. This allows us to:
- Assess your eligibility and confirm if you qualify.
- Help you locate and legalize the required documents.
- Prepare and review all your documentation to avoid errors.
- Arrange your consular or Spanish appointment in advance.
- Proactively monitor your file to ensure a favorable resolution.
In addition, we keep you informed at all times so you can go through this process with confidence.
Benefits of obtaining Spanish citizenship
- Free access to all European Union countries.
- Full rights of residence, work and study in Spain and Europe.
- Access to high-quality public health and education systems.
- Automatic transmission of citizenship to your minor children.
- Possibility to keep your original nationality (dual nationality).
In short, obtaining Spanish citizenship is not only a recognition of your family history, but also a gateway to new opportunities for you and your descendants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for citizenship if I am missing documents from my grandparents or great-grandparents?
In many cases yes, although it may require alternative evidence or testimonies. Orience can help you evaluate solutions if your documentation is incomplete.
What happens if I submit my application right before October 2025?
As long as it is properly submitted before the deadline, it will be valid. However, we recommend not leaving it until the last moment, as an error could leave you out of the process.
Can I obtain Spanish citizenship if my parents did not apply even though they qualified?
Yes, in many cases you can skip a generation if you meet the requirements. The important thing is to prove the family link and the nationality of the ancestor.
Can I submit the application if I live in Spain as a tourist or student?
Yes, but the procedure is different and is processed at the Civil Registry. Orience can help you structure your application based on your current immigration status.
What happens if I don’t get an appointment before the deadline?
The important thing is that the application is registered. If you have already requested an appointment or started proceedings with Orience, we can help you justify your diligence before the authorities.
Conclusion
Time is running out. If you qualify to obtain Spanish citizenship by descent, this is your last chance. Orience is here to help you seize it under the Democratic Memory Law, before this historic opportunity closes in October 2025. Act now, secure your future and that of your family in Europe.