Phases of Spanish nationality

The application for Spanish Nationality by Residence marks the beginning of a detailed and methodical administrative process, during which the applicant's file goes through several critical stages before reaching a final resolution. This procedure is carried out following a protocol established by the Ministry of the Interior and Justice, which allows applicants to follow their case in real time through the online platform "Cómo va lo mío", by entering their file number to obtain updates.

Once the application has been entered, the dossier begins to go through different phases, each of which represents a step forward in the analysis and evaluation of the request. These phases are essential for the correct processing of the application and to ensure that all requirements and criteria are properly reviewed and assessed.

1. OPEN - IN PROCESS: This phase begins immediately after the nationality application is filed. It marks the formal beginning of the review process, during which the file is initially recognized and accepted for processing.
2. OPEN - REGISTERED: Once the file has been formally registered in the system, this status confirms that all initial documents have been correctly submitted and the file is ready to be analyzed in detail.
3. OPEN - QUALIFICATION: At this point, an officer in charge begins the work of evaluating the file. Depending on the information contained and the documents submitted, the file may advance to:
   • OPEN - REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION: If during the review the need for additional information and/or updated documentation is identified, the applicant will be requested to provide the missing documents or correct any discrepancies identified.
   • OPEN - REQUEST FOR MANDATORY REPORTS: During this stage, formal requests are made to obtain reports from various authorities such as the National Police, the Central Registry of Convicts and Rebels, and the National Intelligence Center. These reports are essential to evaluate key aspects such as the applicant's criminal history and other factors that may influence the final decision.
4. OPEN - QUALIFICATION: Once all the reports have been received and reviewed, the administration proceeds to a final evaluation of the file to determine whether the applicant meets all the criteria necessary for the granting of nationality.
5. RESOLUTION: This is the final stage of the process, in which the applicant is informed of the decision made regarding his or her nationality application. The decision can be of two types: Nationality GRANTEDwhere the applicant has satisfactorily complied with all the requirements and is granted Spanish nationality; or Nationality DENIEDin the event that the criteria established by current legislation are not met.

Importantly, each of these phases is crucial to ensure a fair and transparent process, allowing applicants to understand where their application stands and what additional steps they may need to take. In addition, the ability to follow up online offers a valuable tool to stay informed and prepared for any additional requirements during the process.