Can Former Latin American Citizens Get Spanish Citizenship Sooner?

Question from Brad, Can Former Latin American Citizens Get Spanish Citizenship Sooner?

Answer from AI:

If you were once a citizen of a Latin American country but are no longer a citizen, you may wonder if you can still benefit from the expedited process of obtaining Spanish citizenship, which typically requires a two-year residency period for nationals of Ibero-American countries, Andorra, the Philippines, Equatorial Guinea, Portugal, or individuals of Sephardic origin, as opposed to the general ten-year residency requirement.

General Eligibility for Expedited Spanish Citizenship:

• Current citizenship: The Spanish Civil Code generally refers to the nationality of the individual at the time of application. Therefore, if you are no longer a citizen of a Latin American country at the time of your application for Spanish citizenship, this could potentially affect your eligibility for the expedited process.
• Proof of former citizenship: Having a previous passport and birth certificate may serve as proof of your former citizenship and your connection to a Latin American country. However, the critical factor is usually your current nationality at the time of application.
• Residency requirement: Regardless of the expedited process, you must have legally resided in Spain for the required period, which is two years for nationals of the aforementioned countries and ten years for others, with certain exceptions.

Legal Advice and Consultation:
It is essential to consult with a legal professional who specializes in Spanish immigration law to get personalized advice. The nuances of your situation, including the loss of your original nationality and the specifics of Spanish nationality law, require expert interpretation.

Resources for Information:

1. The Spanish Civil Code (Código Civil Español) outlines the requirements for acquiring Spanish nationality.
2. The Spanish Ministry of Justice provides official information and resources regarding the acquisition of Spanish nationality.

Steps to Take:

1. Verify your current nationality status and gather all relevant documentation, such as your birth certificate and any previous passports.
2. Consult with a legal professional who can provide guidance based on the current laws and your specific circumstances.
3. Consider reaching out to the Spanish consulate or embassy in your area for preliminary information.
4. Prepare to demonstrate continuous legal residence in Spain for the required period.

In conclusion, while your previous citizenship and birthplace in a Latin American country may be relevant, the key factor for eligibility under the expedited process is likely to be your current nationality at the time of application. Legal advice is crucial to assess your eligibility and guide you through the application process.