Common Mistakes When Applying for Spanish Nationality—and How to Avoid Them
Applying for Spanish nationality may seem like a straightforward process, but many applicants make mistakes that can delay the resolution or even lead to rejection of their application. Below, I explain the most frequent errors and how to avoid them, so your application has a better chance of success.
1. Submitting incomplete or incorrect documentation
One of the most common mistakes is failing to provide all required documents or submitting incorrect versions (e.g. certificates without an apostille or without an official translation). Before submitting your application, make sure all your documents are complete, valid, and in the correct format.
2. Mistakes in the criminal record certificate
If you are a foreign national, you must submit a criminal record certificate from your country of origin. A frequent error is not having it properly legalized or submitting an expired certificate.
3. Failing the CCSE or DELE exam
To obtain nationality by residence, you must pass the constitutional and sociocultural knowledge exam of Spain (CCSE) and, if you are not a Spanish speaker, the DELE A2 (or higher) language exam. Some applicants either don’t check the requirements before registering or are poorly prepared for the test, which can delay the entire process.
4. Not properly proving your residence period
One key requirement is having legally and continuously resided in Spain for the time legally required for your case. Mistakes in proving your residence—especially if you’ve spent long periods abroad—can cause issues in your application.
5. Failing to respond to information requests
If the Ministry of Justice asks for additional information and you don’t reply within the given timeframe, your application may be archived or denied. It is essential to monitor notifications and respond promptly.
How can you avoid these mistakes?
✔ Carefully review the requirements before starting the process.✔ Submit all documents properly legalized and translated, as needed.✔ Prepare thoroughly for the CCSE and DELE exams, if applicable.✔ Stay informed about your application status and respond to any requests for information on time.
If you want to ensure your application is properly prepared and avoid unnecessary complications, I can help you review your file or handle the entire process on your behalf.
Photo by My Spain Visa on Unsplash