While Italy discusses restrictions on citizenship recognition, the Spanish nationality became more accessible in 2023, with more than 240 people obtaining the document quickly.
With the implementation of Artificial Intelligence by the Ministry of Justice, waiting times have been drastically reduced, especially benefiting citizens of countries such as Morocco, Venezuela and Colombia.
In 2023, the number of concessions increased by 32% compared to the previous year, reaching 240.000 nationalities issued. Italy recognized just over 190 in 2023.
Speed and efficiency in the process
Miriam Campos, a Peruvian citizen who has been living in Zaragoza since 2007, has experienced the efficiency of the new system. After starting the process in 2022, she completed the requirements in just a few months, including the general knowledge exam and the presentation of documents such as a birth certificate, proof of residence and criminal record.
“It was a clear and quick process. They asked for information about my time in Spain, my occupation and residential address,” Miriam explained to the portal Aragon News.
Morocco, Venezuela and Colombia top the list
In 2023, the majority of new Spanish citizens originated from Morocco (54.027), followed by Venezuela (30.154) and Colombia (18.738).
Furthermore, the autonomous communities of Catalonia (60.846) and Madrid (50.049) led in the number of nationalities granted. (Photo: Depositphotos)
