Language and civics tests now required for citizenship

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Spain has implemented a law that requires applicants for Spanish citizenship to pass language and civics tests.

What does the change mean? As of Oct. 15, applicants must achieve the A2 level in the Spanish language and pass a civics test about the Spanish constitution, culture and current affairs.

• Implementation time frame: Immediate.
• Visas/permits affected: Nationality.
• Who is affected: Foreign nationals applying for Spanish citizenship.
• Impact on processing times: The overall process of applying for Spanish citizenship will take longer.
• Next steps: Applicants should make sure they fulfil the two new exam requirements before submitting their citizenship applications.

Background: The language and civics exams will be managed by the Instituto Cervantes, which oversees Spanish language courses in Spain. The government fee for nationality applications is 100 euros (about US$114), and the exam centers will also charge approximately 124 euros for the language exam and 85 euros for the civics exam.

Applicants will be able to submit their applicants electronically through a new online platform.

BAL Analysis: Foreign employees and their dependent family members who are applying for citizenship should be aware of the new requirements.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network provider located in Spain. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

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