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Unlocking Spanish Citizenship by Ancestry: Discover the Benefits, Eligibility Criteria, and Application Process
Beyond being a popular tourist destination, Spain offers individuals the chance to establish roots and embrace their heritage through Spanish citizenship by ancestry (CBA).
Spanish CBA, also known as Jus sanguinis, allows individuals to trace their lineage back to Spanish ancestors and leverage their familial ties to secure a Spanish passport. This citizenship pathway has gained popularity in the recent years due to its streamlined process, affordability, shorter residency requirements, and the cultural connection it fosters.
In this article, we will explore the intricacies of Spanish CBA, delving into the eligibility criteria, application process, and the benefits that await those who embrace their Spanish heritage.
Benefits of Applying for Spanish CBA
To date, citizenship by ancestry is considered one of the fastest and most economical ways for foreigners to secure citizenship in Spain. There are several reasons why this method is advantageous:
Authors: Polly Ho
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- Streamlined Process: Obtaining citizenship through ancestry follows a relatively straightforward and streamlined process. Applicants need to provide the necessary documentation to prove their Spanish lineage, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, and other relevant records. Once the documentation is verified, the process typically involves submitting an application at a nearby Spanish consulate.
- Cost-Effective: Compared to alternatives like investment-based citizenship or employment-based immigration, citizenship by ancestry is generally more cost-effective. While there may be some expenses associated with gathering the necessary documentation and completing administrative procedures, they are typically lower than the significant investments required for other methods.
- Shorter Residency Requirement: Unlike other methods of acquiring citizenship, such as naturalization, which often require several years of residency in Spain, citizenship by ancestry imposes either no residency requirement or a shorter one, depending on the type of ancestral connection the applicant has with Spain. This means that individuals with certain qualified ancestors can become Spanish citizens without living in the country for an extended period.
- Cultural and Emotional Connection: For individuals with Spanish ancestry, obtaining citizenship by ancestry allows them to reconnect with their cultural heritage and ancestral roots. It provides an opportunity to embrace the language, traditions, and values of their ancestors. This emotional connection to the country can be a significant motivating factor for individuals seeking Spanish citizenship.
- Access to Benefits and Rights: Spanish citizenship grants individuals a range of benefits and rights. These include the ability to live and work freely in Spain and other European Union (EU) member states, access to social services and healthcare, the right to vote in national and EU elections, the possibility of obtaining education benefits in Spain, and the opportunities of securing consular support from the Spanish government when facing an emergency outside of Spain.
- At least one of the applicant’s parent is a Spanish national by birth; or
- The applicant was adopted by a Spanish national prior to his/her 18th birthday.
Authors: Polly Ho