Spanish Nationality by Option
CONTINUE DOWNWhat is Spanish Nationality by option?
If you are a foreigner and meet certain requirements, the option is a procedure that allows you to obtain Spanish nationality. In this article we explain everything you need to know about this process.
The option is done in person at the Civil Registrar’s Office of the person’s address in Spain or at the corresponding Consular Office if the person is abroad.
Who has the right to opt for Spanish Nationality and within what period of time?
- There are several situations that grant the right to opt for Spanish nationality. For example, persons who are or have been subject to the parental authority of a Spaniard have the right to opt for Spanish nationality. The term to make the option is two years from the age of majority or emancipation.
- Persons whose father or mother was a Spaniard born in Spain also have the right to opt, with no time limit. Likewise, persons whose filiation or place of birth in Spain is determined after the age of eighteen have the right to opt. In this case, the option period is two years after the parentage or birth in Spain is determined.
- Finally, persons adopted by Spaniards after the age of eighteen also have the right to opt. The option period is two years from the adoption.
- If the interested party is a minor or is incapacitated, the option is made through his legal representatives. If, on the other hand, he/she is over fourteen years of age, he/she will make the option by him/herself, assisted by his/her legal representatives. The incapacitated persons will be able to make the option by themselves if the sentence of incapacitation allows it. The term to make the option expires when the interested party turns 20 years old, unless his or her personal law establishes another age for the age of majority.
If you need more information or advice on immigration matters, do not hesitate to contact a lawyer specialized in this area.