Adoption — adopted-as-major 2-year residence opción (Art 20.1.b CC + Art 19.2)
Citizenship in Spain
- Eligibility
- Persons adopted as adults (post-age-18) by Spanish national: 2-year Spanish residence opción at Registro Civil. Cohort-distinctive — most peer EU countries do not recognize adult adoption for nationality purposes.
- Renunciation
- Not required
Who qualifies
Persons adopted as adults (post-age-18) by Spanish national: 2-year Spanish residence opción at Registro Civil. Documentary: adoption decree + 2y residence proof + Art 23 jura/promesa.
How to apply
Application via Registro Civil. Cohort-distinctive: most peer EU countries do not recognize adult adoption for nationality purposes. Codi Civil de Família regional adoption frameworks interplay (Cataluña Llei 25/2010) is sub-juris civil law NOT nationality.
Legal basis
CC Art 20.1.b adopted-as-major opción + Art 19.2 adult adoption framework.
Informational summary compiled from primary legal sources — not legal advice. Citizenship law changes; verify with the competent authority before acting. Last verified 2026-05-26.
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