Safeguarding Spanish citizenship: what you need to know when living abroad

If you've acquired Spanish citizenship but find yourself residing in a country other than Spain, you may be concerned about the implications for your nationality. Understanding the nuances of maintaining your citizenship while living abroad is essential.

Living outside Spain does not directly lead to a loss of nationality, regardless of whether you were born a Spaniard or obtained citizenship through other means. However, there are specific conditions outlined by the Spanish Justice Ministry that could jeopardize the citizenship of those who are not Spaniards by origin, such as individuals who gained nationality through marriage or residency.

Under certain circumstances, you could lose your Spanish nationality if:

- You use your previous nationality, which you renounced upon acquiring Spanish citizenship, within three years.

- You voluntarily enter into armed service or hold a political office in a foreign country.

- It is determined that you obtained Spanish nationality through falsehood, concealment, or fraud.

A notable case from 2023 involved a Spanish national who, after moving to Australia and acquiring Australian citizenship, was informed via TikTok that his Spanish citizenship would be revoked due to his new nationality. This highlights the importance of being aware of how easily biometric passport information can be accessed and cross-referenced by border control and other authorities.

To safeguard your nationality while living abroad, consider the following proactive measures:

Demonstrating your intention to retain Spanish citizenship is key. Here are some effective ways to do this:

- Attempting to renew your Spanish passport is often seen as proof of your commitment to maintaining your nationality.

- Exercising your right to vote in Spanish elections from abroad reflects your engagement with Spanish civic life.

- Utilizing your right to free movement within the EU, as granted by your Spanish passport, reinforces your connection to Spain.

- Getting married abroad using your Spanish passport can also serve as a testament to your ongoing ties.

For those contemplating Spanish citizenship through residency, be aware of the time restrictions on how long you can remain outside the country. You may spend no more than three months continuously outside of Spain if you are required to stay for five, two, or one year to apply for nationality. If you are eligible based on ten years of residence, the limit extends to six continuous months.

Understanding these factors is crucial to ensuring that your Spanish citizenship remains intact, even as you navigate life abroad.