Naturalization Citizenship: Grounds, How to Obtain, and Tips

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Are you dreaming of a new home in another country? Naturalization is the most common way to obtain a passport and full citizenship status if you do not have direct roots, marriage with a foreigner, or the opportunity to invest huge sums. This process takes time, patience, and compliance with strict requirements, but it opens the door to new opportunities and rights. In this article, we will discuss in detail the grounds on which citizenship can be obtained by naturalization, what steps need to be taken and how to increase the chances of success.

Citizenship by naturalization: legal grounds

The procedure for obtaining citizenship by naturalization is based on specific conditions stipulated in the law of each country. The starting point is legal stay. Only an officially registered status, including a residence permit and permanent residence, gives the right to start counting down. Spain requires 10 years of legal residence. For immigrants from Latin America, the Philippines, Andorra and Sephardim, the term is reduced to 2 years. An important condition is the continuity of domicile, even for short—term trips outside the country. The legislation also provides for additional criteria: a positive reputation, no criminal record, stable income, proficiency in Spanish and knowledge of the basics of the constitution.

Proving participation: integration and engagement

Citizenship by naturalization is granted not only based on the length of time, but also on the applicant’s involvement in the country’s social and economic life. The naturalized candidate demonstrates integration through employment, tax returns, and participation in educational, social, and cultural programs.

In Spain, the DELE A2 exam confirms basic language proficiency. Additionally, the CCSE test is conducted to assess knowledge of laws, traditions, history, and administrative structures. The applicant provides proof of income, employment contracts, work certificates, and tax returns.

Steps of the process: from the request to the passport

The process is a sequential chain of steps, each of which requires confirmation and official approval. Naturalization citizenship includes:

Obtaining a legal basis for residence — a visa, residence permit or permanent residence.
Accumulation of the required length of residence (for example, 10 years in Spain).
Collection and submission of documents: passport, certificate of non-criminal record, proof of income, lease or property agreement.
Passing a language and civil examination.
Background check, criminal record, tax and immigration history.
Interviews or additional checks are at the discretion of the migration authorities.
Taking the oath of allegiance to a new country.
Obtaining an ID card, passport, and full civil rights.

The financial side: sufficient income and no debts

Financial viability remains one of the key conditions for obtaining citizenship by naturalization by a foreigner. The State considers how much the applicant can provide for himself and not apply for social support. The Spanish authorities take into account:

stable income at least below the minimum threshold;
regular payment of taxes;
no outstanding utility, administrative, or tax obligations.

For families with children, the requirements increase in proportion to the number of dependents.

Problematic factors: mistakes and risks when obtaining citizenship by naturalization

The naturalization process requires precision. Errors in the submission, lack of documents or non-compliance with the minimum criteria lead to a refusal. For example, undeclared trips can lead to a reset of the accumulated length of stay.

Common reasons for refusals:

incomplete documents;
lack of exams;
criminal record;
unreliable data;
insufficient language level.

Naturalization citizenship requires careful attention to all the details. You can fix the error, but the re-process will take at least a year.

Features of citizenship by naturalization in Spain: a detailed analysis of the conditions and the process

Spain offers a path to citizenship through naturalization as a long-term but stable and predictable mechanism for legalization. The country’s legal system combines loyalty towards integrated residents with a high level of formalities. Each stage of the process requires proof of loyalty, inclusion, and compliance with the law.

Documents and conditions: what the Ministry of Internal Affairs checks

Naturalization citizenship in Spain involves not just a legal application, but a full background check, lifestyle assessment, and integration level. The list of mandatory conditions includes:

stable income (availability of an employment contract, business or other source of financing);
continuous residence (departures should not exceed 90 days per year or 6 months in total over the entire period);
a positive tax history (tax returns, missing debts);
a certificate of no criminal record from all countries where the applicant has lived in the last 5 years;
a residence permit in Spain and proof of residence (rental agreement, bills, medical insurance);
DELE A2 and CCSE certificates are exams that test knowledge of the Spanish language and the basics of the legal, political, and cultural system.

In addition to formal criteria, the candidate’s reputation is important, including feedback from employers, participation in local events, courses, and social activism.

Oath and renunciation of previous citizenship

The final stage is the signing of a solemn oath in front of a representative of the Ministry of Justice. From this moment on, the candidate becomes a legal Spanish citizen. The procedure is conducted in the local registry, where the candidate’s consent to the country’s constitutional order, loyalty to the Spanish nation, and renunciation of their previous citizenship are recorded.

However, Spain only allows dual citizenship with a select few countries, including most Latin American nations, as well as Portugal, the Philippines, and Andorra. For citizens of other countries, renouncing their previous citizenship is a mandatory requirement. Exceptions are allowed only if the refusal is officially prohibited by the laws of the country of origin.

Practical advice: how to get citizenship by naturalization without mistakes

Even if the length of stay coincides, an error in one of the points will delay the process for months. Recommendations:

arrange official accommodation from the first day of entry;
maintain stability of residence and income;
take exams in advance;
confirm integration by participating in local projects and courses;
maintain an impeccable reputation;
avoid even administrative offenses;
keep copies of all migration documents.

Only if these conditions are met will the path be completed successfully.

Conclusion

Naturalization citizenship remains a reliable but complex method of legalization. It requires patience, systematic approach, respect for the laws of the host country, and full adaptation to its rhythm. For those seeking to accelerate the process, investments in real estate or business offer an alternative. However, citizenship is not just a document; it is a reflection of one’s genuine contribution to society, respect for its norms, and appreciation of its history.

Differences between residence permits and permanent residence permits: what is important to know before moving to a new country

Immigration requires not only documentation, but also a strategic understanding of status. A mistake in choosing between temporary and permanent residence rights can affect everything from taxation to the possibility of obtaining citizenship. The differences between a residence permit and a permanent residence permit are not just formalities – they determine the whole lifestyle abroad.

Legal status: differences between residence permit and residence permit

Each immigration regime forms its own structure of rights and obligations. A Temporary Residence Permit (TRP) is a residence permit directly linked to a specific purpose. The latter is specified in the application form and legally enshrined. In practice, this means: a student cannot work beyond the established limit, an employee cannot change profession or employer without reissuing the status, a spouse is obliged to maintain a legal relationship in order to keep the permit.

The standard duration of a residence permit is one to three years, but many countries issue one-year permits with the possibility of renewal. Renewal always requires the collection of evidence: an active contract, current address, stable income, no offences. Each step is accompanied by the submission of new documents and waiting for approval.

A permanent residence permit (PML) eliminates these dependencies. After obtaining it, there is no need to explain the purpose of residence. This status gives the right to freely change the sphere of employment, move around the country, apply for public office, and in some cases even vote in local elections. It is granted indefinitely or with a long renewal period (e.g. 10 years), without the need to review the reasons for residence.

The differences between residence permit and permanent residence permit concern not only the duration, but also the essence of the legal status. The first format subordinates a person to the system, while the second – integrates him/her into it. Permanent residence permit forms a deeper connection with the state – in the form of participation in the tax system, social infrastructure, long-term protection of rights.

Transition from temporary to permanent status is not automatic. It requires compliance with conditions: continuous residence, absence of offences, payment of taxes, language skills and cultural understanding. Some jurisdictions require an integration test. Only then does temporary status become fundamental.

Acceso a las oportunidades: los límites de la libertad jurídica. Empieza tu andadura en el baloncesto con nuestro servicio.

Las diferencias legales entre la residencia temporal y la residencia permanente se notan especialmente en el acceso a los sistemas estatales, la libertad de acción y la posibilidad de participar en la vida del país al igual que los ciudadanos.

En el primer caso, los derechos dependen del motivo. Por ejemplo, el permiso de residencia para estudiantes limita el trabajo a 20 horas semanales o solo en el campus. El incumplimiento de estas condiciones puede dar lugar a la anulación. En algunos países, el permiso de residencia no permite disfrutar de un seguro médico completo: la cobertura solo es válida para casos de emergencia o si se contrata una póliza privada. Ni siquiera se puede acceder a las prestaciones sociales (por ejemplo, por desempleo).

La residencia permanente da acceso a toda la infraestructura del Estado. Las instituciones médicas prestan sus servicios con los mismos estándares que a los ciudadanos. Las subvenciones y ayudas estatales pasan a estar disponibles. En algunos países, la residencia permanente da derecho a solicitar formación gratuita en universidades y a participar en programas de empleo, integración y apoyo social. Acceso a oportunidades: los límites de la libertad jurídica. Empieza tu andadura en el baloncesto con nuestro servicio.

La residencia temporal obliga a cumplir estrictamente con los requisitos. Por ejemplo, si se pierde el trabajo, hay que encontrar uno nuevo en unos meses, o se pierde el estatus. El estatus de empresario requiere mantener un cierto nivel de ingresos. Si el negocio cierra, se pierde el estatus. La residencia permanente no depende del objetivo. Una vez obtenida, la persona puede dejar de trabajar, mudarse a otra región o cambiar de ámbito de actividad.

Un aspecto aparte es el cambio de vivienda. Con un permiso de residencia, mudarse a otra región o incluso a otra ciudad puede requerir notificación o reinscripción. La residencia permanente elimina estas restricciones. La autonomía jurídica también es importante para participar en la vida social. Por ejemplo, en algunos países, este estatus permite votar en las elecciones municipales, afiliarse a sindicatos y obtener créditos estatales para la educación o la vivienda.

Obligaciones financieras: diferencias entre la residencia temporal y la residencia permanente

La diferencia entre ambos estatus también afecta a la fiscalidad. En algunos países, los residentes permanentes están automáticamente sujetos a la jurisdicción fiscal. Es decir, deben declarar sus ingresos globales, incluso si su negocio se encuentra en otro país. Con un permiso de residencia temporal, esta norma solo se aplica a menudo en caso de residencia de larga duración. Las diferencias entre el permiso de residencia temporal y el de residencia permanente también son notables en cuanto al acceso a las pensiones, el seguro médico y las prestaciones sociales. A menudo, solo el formato permanente abre las puertas a paquetes completos de garantías sociales. Obligaciones financieras: diferencias entre el permiso de residencia temporal y el de residencia permanente.

El camino hacia la ciudadanía: dependencia del estatus

La residencia prolongada en el extranjero casi siempre conduce a la ciudadanía. Sin embargo, las condiciones para obtener la residencia permanente difieren de las del permiso de residencia. Para naturalizarse, no basta con vivir durante un período determinado, sino que hay que vivirlo con el estatus adecuado. Es posible que el permiso de residencia no se tenga en cuenta en su totalidad. Por ejemplo, en España, para solicitar el pasaporte es importante tener cinco años de residencia permanente, y no diez. No se trata simplemente de una disputa sobre el estatus. Se trata de cuándo comienza exactamente el plazo para obtener el pasaporte.

Documentos y procedimientos: una diferencia en el papel con consecuencias reales

La comparación de los procedimientos muestra que las diferencias entre la residencia temporal y la residencia permanente se manifiestan ya en la fase de presentación de la solicitud. Para obtener el estatus temporal, basta con presentar los documentos básicos: pasaporte, confirmación del propósito, seguro. Para obtener el estatus permanente, se añade la verificación de los ingresos, la vivienda, la integración y, en ocasiones, el conocimiento del idioma. Residencia permanente frente a residencia temporal: existe una diferencia en los plazos de tramitación. La residencia permanente tarda más en tramitarse. A menudo se comprueba el historial crediticio, los antecedentes penales y la ausencia de deudas.

Condiciones de cancelación: ¿qué tan frágil es el estatus?

El estatus temporal es fácilmente revocable. El incumplimiento del objetivo, la salida del país durante varios meses o el cambio de empleador pueden invalidar los documentos. La residencia permanente ofrece mayor flexibilidad. Incluso una ausencia prolongada del país no siempre conlleva la pérdida del estatus, especialmente si hay razones justificadas. Por lo tanto, al elegir entre ambos estatus, es importante evaluar no solo los derechos, sino también los riesgos. Las diferencias entre el permiso de residencia temporal y el permiso de residencia permanente se hacen especialmente evidentes en situaciones no habituales.

El ejemplo de España

El sistema español destaca todas las diferencias entre el permiso de residencia temporal y el permiso de residencia permanente: el ejemplo de España.

La residencia temporal se concede sobre la base de un contrato, estudios o inversiones. Cada año hay que renovarla. Si te mudas a otra región, tienes que informar de ello. Si dejas tu trabajo, corres el riesgo de que te la retiren.
La residencia permanente se concede tras cinco años de residencia. A partir de ese momento, se abre el mercado laboral, se obtiene acceso a los planes de pensiones y desaparece la estricta dependencia de las condiciones.

Resultados

La elección entre el estatus temporal y permanente no es una simple cuestión formal. Es una decisión estratégica. Las diferencias entre la residencia temporal y la residencia permanente afectan a todos los aspectos de la vida: desde la matriculación escolar de los hijos hasta la posibilidad de abrir una cuenta bancaria. Un error al principio puede prolongarse durante años. Un enfoque bien pensado acelera el camino hacia la estabilidad y la libertad.

June 17, 2025

What kind of income can I expect from renting a home in Spain?

Earning money on square metres is turning from a dream into a reality for many who own Spanish property. The country has long ago turned from a resort area into an investment magnet. Income from renting out housing in Spain steadily attracts both private owners and professional investors. And the point here is not in the “beautiful sunset over Barcelona”, but in the projected yield, real figures and growing demand.

Heated market and profit formula

The mechanism is simple: buy – rent – profit. But in the Spanish climate this algorithm works more efficiently. In 2024, the average yield from rental property in Spain ranged from 4% to 7% per annum. In some areas of Valencia and Alicante indicators rose to 10%, especially with a competent strategy of short-term rentals.

On the Costa del Sol, a one-bedroom flat of 40-50 m² brought about €1,000 per month in summer and about €600-700 in winter. Rental income in Spain increases dramatically during the tourist season. Especially in a high-traffic area – near the beach or the historic centre.

Short-term rentals: money for daily rent

Airbnb is not just a platform, but a full-fledged business model. Flat owners in Málaga and Seville get up to €120-150 per day for a small studio in season. At 80% occupancy rate, the profit easily covers the mortgage, taxes and expenses.

Income from rental housing in Spain in this segment is maximally sensitive to management. Timely cleaning, high quality photos, competent description of the object – everything affects the positioning in the search and the price per night. Here, every metre works to exhaustion, and every review brings you closer to full occupancy.

Long-term leases: stability over the distance

Not everyone is looking for sunshine for a week – many move permanently. In Barcelona, the average price for a one-bedroom flat in 2024 was €1,100-1,400 per month. In Madrid, it was around €1,300.

The advantage of the format is predictability: the accommodation is rented for at least 12 months, payments are regular and the tax base is clear. Income in the long-term format is lower than in the short-term format, but it is more sustainable and requires less involvement.

How much does a flat or house bring in

One property – dozens of scenarios. In Alicante, buying a flat for €130,000 and renting it out at €850 per month provides a 7.8% annual pre-tax yield. In Tarragona, a €280,000 house rented out for €1,900 per month generates around 8.1%, assuming 100% occupancy and minimal management costs.

Costs that eat into profits

The income from rental property in the country decreases noticeably after deducting all mandatory expenses. In order to correctly estimate the profit, it is important to take into account not only taxes, but also the regular costs of management, repairs and insurance.

The structure of expenses is standard:

Taxes: on rental income – 19% for EU residents, higher for others.
Management: professional management companies charge 10-20% of the rent.
Insurance: €150 to €500 per year depending on coverage.
Repairs and depreciation: about 5% per annum of the value of the property.
Utilities: usually paid by the tenant, but in some cases by the owner.

A general “cross-section” shows that real rental income in Spain represents 70-75 per cent of gross profit.

How to rent a property in Spain legally and without problems

The law is not an obstacle, but a filter of efficiency. A tourist licence is required for short-term rentals in most regions. It takes from 2 to 6 months to obtain the licence, and without it, renting out accommodation is a direct route to a fine of up to €30,000.

For long-term rentals, everything is simpler – a rental agreement, registration with the tax office and recording the income in the declaration. Profitability depends directly on legal transparency. Regular reporting and registration of the property strengthens the owner’s position.

Who rents and how to choose a format

The target audience shapes the revenue model. In the short-term segment, demand is created by tourists, digital nomads, and participants in international events. They are interested in comfort, location and flexibility. The long-term market is formed by locals, foreign specialists, students and pensioners moving to the country for permanent residence.

Rental income varies depending on this audience. The short-term format brings more but requires constant management, while the long-term format is stable but less flexible.

Seven solutions for growing rental income in Spain

To increase rental income, owners implement strategically calibrated actions based on real market practices. Each of them directly affects the financial result, minimises losses and enhances the attractiveness of the property:

Tax optimisation – using the EU tax resident status reduces the income tax rate.
Obtaining a tourist licence – expands opportunities to rent accommodation, especially in popular regions.
Professional management – increases occupancy, minimises downtime, improves service.
Interior and equipment improvements – modern appliances and design increase the cost by 10-20%.
Seasonality analysis – adjusting prices and promotions during periods of demand.
Choosing a location with growing interest – for example, Almeria or Murcia is now cheaper but more promising.
Managing the reputation of the property – positive reviews increase the chances of a booking.

The complex of these solutions allows you to increase profits without large-scale investments. Proper strategy ensures sustainable income even in fluctuating economic conditions.

Entry price and real prospects

Investments start at €80,000-100,000 in small towns or €120,000-150,000 in resort areas. With the right model, the income provides a return on investment in 10-12 years. Objects with higher returns pay off in 6-8 years.

Given the growth in house prices (+5.3% per year on average according to Idealista), this strategy not only brings current earnings but also capital growth. A combined approach – rental plus long-term retention – allows building a stable income stream.

Rental income in Spain: conclusions

Income from rental housing in Spain depends not on luck, but on the accuracy of calculations and competent management. Short-term rental housing with good management, brings up to 10% per annum, long-term – stable 4-7%. Real estate allows you to adapt the strategy to the goals of the investor. When controlling costs, competent registration and the right choice of object, the profit remains stable even in conditions of market fluctuations.

May 27, 2025