EU citizenship is a powerful status that opens doors to incredible opportunities, from visa-free travel to the ability to live, work, and study across the European Union. For those married to EU citizens, the possibility of obtaining citizenship by marriage is an exciting pathway to becoming part of the European community. However, the rules and requirements vary significantly depending on the country. This guide breaks down the key considerations and processes in several EU countries, as well as what rights spouses have even before obtaining citizenship.
Obtaining EU Citizenship by Marriage
1. Croatia
Croatia offers one of the most straightforward pathways to citizenship by marriage. A foreign spouse can apply for Croatian citizenship after being married to a Croatian citizen for three years, even if they live outside Croatia. There is no requirement to learn the Croatian language, making it a relatively accessible option.
2. Portugal
Portugal also provides an appealing route to citizenship by marriage. Foreign spouses can apply for citizenship after being married for three years, even if they don’t reside in Portugal. No language test is required, making Portugal one of the easiest countries for non-residents to gain Portuguese citizenship through marriage.
3. Italy
Italy allows foreign spouses to apply for Italian citizenship after two years of marriage if living in Italy, or three years if living abroad. While there is no residency requirement, applicants must pass a basic Italian language test (level B1). Italy’s rich culture and heritage make it an attractive choice for couples seeking citizenship.
4. Hungary
Hungary offers a pathway to citizenship after three years of marriage, even if the couple resides outside the country. However, like Italy, Hungary requires the applicant to pass a language test. This can be a challenge for some, but it’s a great opportunity for those willing to embrace the language.
5. Germany
In Germany, a foreign spouse can apply for citizenship after being married to a German citizen for at least two years, but they must also have legally lived in Germany for at least three years. Additionally, applicants must pass a language test (level B1) and demonstrate integration into German society, including knowledge of German laws and culture.
6. France
France allows spouses to apply for citizenship after four years of marriage. This period is reduced to three years if the couple resides together in France and the French spouse is registered in the local municipality. There is no language test for spouses, but proof of integration into French society, such as knowledge of the French language and culture, is required.
7. Spain
In Spain, spouses can apply for citizenship after being married to a Spanish citizen for one year, but they must also reside in Spain during this time. There is a requirement to prove integration, including passing language and cultural tests. Spain’s rules are strict on residency, requiring the couple to live together within the country for the eligibility period.
8. Austria
Austria requires a foreign spouse to be married to an Austrian citizen and reside in Austria for at least six years before applying for citizenship. Language proficiency at level B1 and evidence of integration, such as participation in local community activities, are part of the application process.
9. Ireland
Ireland offers a relatively straightforward process for spouses of Irish citizens. A foreign spouse can apply for citizenship after three years of marriage or civil partnership, provided the couple has lived together in Ireland for at least three of the last five years. No language test is required, but continuous residency is a must.
10. Poland
In Poland, a foreign spouse can apply for citizenship after being married to a Polish citizen for at least three years and residing in Poland for two of those years under a permanent residence permit. Applicants must also demonstrate basic Polish language proficiency.
11. Greece
Greece requires a foreign spouse to be married to a Greek citizen for at least three years and have resided in Greece for at least two years before applying for citizenship. Applicants must also pass a Greek language and cultural test.
12. Netherlands
In the Netherlands, spouses of Dutch citizens can apply for naturalization after three years of marriage, provided they have lived in the Netherlands for at least three years. Applicants must pass Dutch language and integration exams.
13. Belgium
In Belgium, a foreign spouse can apply for citizenship after three years of marriage and three years of residency in Belgium. There is no formal language requirement for citizenship, but some integration and knowledge of one of the national languages (Dutch, French, or German) are expected.
14. Denmark
Denmark requires a foreign spouse to be married to a Danish citizen for at least six years and have resided in Denmark for at least six consecutive years before applying for citizenship. Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in Danish (level B2) and meet strict integration and self-sufficiency criteria.
15. Sweden
Sweden allows spouses to apply for citizenship after being married to a Swedish citizen for two years, provided they have lived in Sweden for at least three years. There is no formal language or cultural test, but the application must show evidence of integration and long-term commitment to life in Sweden.
16. Finland
In Finland, a foreign spouse can apply for citizenship after being married to a Finnish citizen for at least three years and having lived in Finland for a minimum of four years. There is a language requirement, with applicants needing to demonstrate proficiency in Finnish or Swedish.
Rights of Spouses Without Citizenship
Even if the foreign spouse does not yet hold EU citizenship, marriage to an EU citizen grants significant rights. In many cases, the foreign spouse can live and work in the EU without needing a separate visa or permit.
- Residence Rights: Spouses of EU citizens can reside in their partner’s EU country under family reunification laws.
- Work Rights: Once legally residing in the EU, spouses can work in their partner’s country, providing economic flexibility and opportunities.
- Common-Law Partnerships: In some countries, common-law or de facto partnerships are recognized, allowing partners similar rights to those of married couples.
These rights often apply even if the EU citizen spouse is not living in their home country but in another EU member state.
Stay Updated: Rules May Change
It’s important to note that citizenship laws can change, and requirements may vary depending on individual circumstances. Speaking with our team ensures you have the most accurate and up-to-date information for your situation.
How We Can Help You Navigate the Process
At EuroPassport, we specialize in helping individuals and families navigate the complexities of EU citizenship by marriage. From gathering the necessary documents to ensuring compliance with language and residency requirements, our team of experts makes the process smooth and hassle-free.
Whether you’re applying in a country with no residency requirements, like Portugal or Croatia, or tackling the language test in Italy or Hungary, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Are you ready to start your journey toward EU citizenship by marriage? Let us make the process seamless for you. Contact us today to learn more about your eligibility and how we can help you achieve your dream of becoming an EU citizen.