Nationality
Spanish nationality for minors: how to apply
Children of foreign nationals may obtain Spanish nationality in several situations. We explain all the main cases and the full process.
2026-03-07 · 5 min
Main situations
Minors may access nationality by birth in Spain in certain cases, by option when one of the parents acquires Spanish nationality, or by residence if the legally required period has been met.
There are also cases linked to guardianship, statelessness or situations where the parents' national law does not grant nationality to the child.
How the application is filed
The application is usually filed by the parents or legal representatives before the Civil Registry. That is why it is essential to review legal representation and family documentation before starting the file.
When the child studies in Spain or was born here, some requirements change or may even be simplified, but it is always worth checking which route is the right one.
Documents and exemptions
Birth certificates, identity documents for the child and the parents, authorizations and any decision proving guardianship, custody or parental authority are usually required.
Minors are exempt from CCSE and DELE tests where applicable, which makes the file simpler than an adult nationality application.
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General content is useful, but the right decision still depends on your own file and documents.