How Mexican citizenship opens the path to Spanish citizenship: a 2026 strategy

A Spanish passport is one of the strongest in the world: free movement and employment across the EU, a high level of social protection, and global mobility. The standard path for CIS nationals requires at least 10 years of legal residence in Spain.

There are many myths surrounding the idea of “Mexico → Spain in 2 years.” In this article, we explain what actually works, what legal limitations exist, and how to build a correct two-step strategy toward obtaining an EU passport through Mexican citizenship.

Spain does provide a shortened naturalization period (2 years of residence), but it applies only to citizens of Ibero-American countries by birth.

Key point: naturalization in Mexico is not equivalent to citizenship by birth. Therefore, a citizen of Russia, Ukraine, or another CIS country who obtains a Mexican passport through naturalization will still be subject to the standard 10-year residence requirement in Spain.

Conclusion: A Mexican passport does not reduce the Spanish citizenship timeline to 2 years. However, it provides strategic advantages that make the route legally stable and more convenient.

1. Visa-Free Entry to Spain and the Schengen Area
Mexican citizens may stay in Schengen countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa. This allows you to:

• Explore Spanish regions in advance
• Prepare residence permit documents
• Establish business and personal connections
• Assess the tax and business environment

2. Exemption from the DELE Exam
When applying for Spanish citizenship, native Spanish speakers are exempt from the DELE A2 language exam. Mexican citizens fall into this category.

3. Possibility of Dual Citizenship
Spain allows retention of Mexican citizenship. This means:

• No need to renounce your Mexican passport
• A dual status: Mexico + Spain (EU)

For nationals of countries without dual citizenship agreements with Spain, a Mexican passport can serve as an intermediate strategic solution.

4. Strong Passport Mobility
The Mexican passport provides broad visa-free access worldwide, significantly expanding international opportunities during the strategy implementation period.

Stage 1: Obtaining Mexican Citizenship

Step 1. Obtaining Mexican Residency
Main grounds:

1. Financial independence (proof of income or savings)
2. Marriage to a Mexican citizen
3. Child born in Mexico
4. Employment contract
5. Transition from student status to residency

Step 2. Naturalization
Standard residence requirement: 5 years
Reduced term (marriage or Mexican child): 2 years
Main requirements:

• Spanish language proficiency
• Exam on Mexican history and culture
• No criminal record
• Proof of continuous residence

Average processing time: 6–12 months

Total timeline:

• Standard route: approximately 6 years
• Reduced route: approximately 3 years

Stage 2: Moving to Spain and Obtaining Citizenship

Step 1. Obtaining Spanish Residency
Common grounds:

1. Digital Nomad Visa
2. Non-Lucrative Residence (passive income)
3. Employment contract
4. Family reunification

Important: Student residence status does not count toward the citizenship residence requirement.

Step 2. Residence and Permanent Residency

• 5 years of residence → eligibility for long-term residence (PR)
• 10 years of residence → eligibility to apply for citizenship
• No absence exceeding 6 consecutive months
• Passing the CCSE exam

Step 3. Citizenship Application
The application is submitted online via Spain’s Ministry of Justice.
Average processing time: 1–3 years.

Standard route:
Year 1–2 — Mexican residency
Year 2–5 — Residence period
Year 5–6 — Mexican citizenship
Year 6–7 — Move to Spain
Year 7–12 — Residence + PR
Year 12–15 — Spanish citizenship
Reduced Mexican route: 9–12 years total.

1. Breaking continuous residence requirements in Spain
2. Expired residence permits
3. Tax residency (183+ days per year rule)
4. Proper registration of children born outside Mexico

This strategy requires strict compliance with deadlines and documentation discipline.

Mexican citizenship is not a “quick trick” for obtaining a Spanish passport in two years. It is a long-term strategic immigration tool.
With proper legal guidance, the Mexico → Spain route allows you to:

• Obtain two strong passports
• Legally integrate into the EU
• Optimize language and legal requirements
• Maintain mobility at every stage

Each case requires individual analysis: family status, income level, tax residency, and long-term goals directly influence the optimal strategy.

Request a Consultation
Visa Dan assists clients with:

• Mexican citizenship
• Spanish residence permits (Digital Nomad, Non-Lucrative)
• Long-term EU immigration strategies

We design a personalized route, minimize risks, and support you at every stage — from the first residence permit to your passport.

Contact us for an individual timeline and strategy assessment.

Visa Dan is an international company with a strong legal team and experience in assisting more than 1,000 clients. We offer:

• Individual selection of solutions and strategies for obtaining a residence permit.
• Complete transparency and support at every stage.
• A strong team in Europe: lawyers, translators, operators, notaries.
• Support until you receive your ID card, as well as assistance with renewal and integration in the country.

The Visa Dan team will help you navigate this journey from start to finish. Get personalized advice and start your new life in 2025!