In 2025, several countries continue to provide foreign nationals with expedited pathways to citizenship through marriage. While requirements vary, the process often involves proof of a genuine relationship, compliance with legal stipulations, and, in some cases, meeting cultural or linguistic expectations.
For individuals looking to start a new life or gain dual citizenship, marriage remains one of the most efficient routes.
In Spain, marrying a Spanish citizen can significantly accelerate the citizenship process. Applicants are required to live together in Spain for at least one year and pass language and cultural knowledge exams. Key documents, including a marriage certificate and a clean criminal record, must also be submitted.
Once these conditions are met, citizenship applications are reviewed, and successful applicants are granted Spanish nationality.
Argentina provides another opportunity for fast-tracked citizenship. Marriage to an Argentine citizen allows foreign nationals to apply for citizenship without fulfilling the usual two-year residency requirement.
Applicants must submit vital documents such as birth and marriage certificates and undergo court approval before receiving citizenship. Once granted, Argentine nationality is permanent, offering full legal rights and benefits.
Brazil offers a slightly different approach, requiring foreign nationals married to Brazilian citizens to meet standard naturalization requirements. Marriage reduces the residency period to one year, after which individuals can apply for citizenship.
The process, governed by Decree 9199/2017, typically takes six months, although delays may occur if additional documentation is required.
In Italy, the foreign spouse of an Italian citizen can apply for citizenship after two years of marriage if residing in Italy or three years if abroad.
These timelines are halved if the couple has children under 18. The process involves meeting language proficiency requirements, providing criminal background checks, and completing a detailed application through the Ministry of Interior.
Mexico also offers a streamlined route to citizenship through marriage. Foreign spouses can apply for temporary residency immediately, which can be renewed in the second year.
By the third year, applicants may transition to permanent residency or apply for citizenship. The process includes language tests, proof of financial stability, and knowledge of Mexican culture and history.
France presents another pathway for foreign spouses, requiring applicants to be married for at least four years and to demonstrate continuous cohabitation with their French spouse. Those living abroad may face a five-year waiting period unless their spouse is registered at a French consulate. The process includes submitting translated and legalized documents and demonstrating French language proficiency.
Colombia stands out for its simplicity, allowing foreign nationals married to Colombian citizens to apply for citizenship after two years of holding a resident visa. Applicants must pass tests on Colombian history, geography, and constitutional law, with exemptions available for older applicants or those holding Colombian degrees.
While these countries offer faster citizenship through marriage, applicants must navigate various legal and bureaucratic requirements.
Each nation ensures that the process upholds the integrity of its immigration policies while offering opportunities for foreign nationals to integrate into their societies.
