Nationality for Philippinos
Sworn Translator-Interpreter
Traductora-Interprete Jurada
+34 645 65 49 98
Foreign Office Translator's Commission Number: 8981
Sworn Translator-Interpreter
Traductora-Interprete Jurada
+34 645 65 49 98
Foreign Office Translator's Commission Number: 8981
1. Meet the Residency Requirement
Live in Spain for 2 years on a non-lucrative visa (this is a shorter requirement for citizens of Spain’s former colonies).
Can you leave Spain during this time? Yes! You can take vacations and shorter trips as long as Spain remains your primary home.
2. Pass the Language and History Tests
You’ll need to pass the Spanish language (DELE) and history/culture (CCSE) tests.
These tests are administered by Instituto Cervantes. Prepare thoroughly—check their website for resources: Instituto Cervantes - DELE and CCSE.
It can feel challenging, but with preparation, it's doable.
3. Submit Your Citizenship Application
After meeting the residency and test requirements, apply for Spanish citizenship.
When we applied:
We submitted our application in February (after meeting the requirements).
It’s a good idea to hire a reputable immigration lawyer to guide you through the process, though you can also apply independently.
Expect some nerves as you wait for approval!
4. Approval Process
When you receive approval, the next steps involve a visit to the Registro Civil:
Bring:
2 copies of the request letter.
Your TIE (residence card).
Your approval letter.
A copy of your empadronamiento (residency registration).
The funcionario (civil servant) will stamp one copy of your request letter and notify you of the date for your jura (oath ceremony).
5. Attend the Jura (Oath Ceremony)
The jura is a formal oath where you declare loyalty to Spain and renounce your previous citizenship (if required).
During the ceremony:
Be prepared to answer questions about your birth certificate, personal details, and possibly even your birth time!
Don’t worry if nerves kick in—this is normal. Keep calm, and it will go smoothly.
Fun Fact: It’s a light-hearted environment—our funcionarias even joked with us during the process!
6. Post-Jura Steps
After the jura, you’ll receive your Spanish birth certificate by email (usually within a day).
If there are errors on the certificate, you can correct them in person.
Next, schedule an appointment (cita previa) for your DNI (Spanish ID) and passport.
Use your old TIE information to book the appointment quickly: Cita Previa for DNI.
7. Final Steps
After getting your DNI and passport, don’t forget to:
Update your padron (residency registration).
Request a Certificado de Concordancia to ensure all your records match your new citizenship.
Key Links & Resources
Language and History Exams: Instituto Cervantes - DELE and CCSE
Registro Civil Information: Registro Civil
DNI Appointment: Cita Previa for DNI