Obtaining Spanish nationality requires passing two important exams: the CCSE and the DELE Spanish Language exam with a minimum level of A2. DELE A2 exam in 2023 costs 134 euros. These exams allow foreigners to demonstrate that they are sufficiently rooted in Spain to become citizens. However, certain foreigners have the possibility of not having to take these exams, and in this post, we will see in detail who is eligible for exemption and how to apply for it.
In general, all those of legal age (18 years in Spain) have to take both tests. However, if Spanish is your mother tongue and you are from a nation in Latin America, you do not have to take the language test.
In addition, there are three assumptions for the remaining cases that permit you to skip either of the two examinations; in order to do this, you must apply for a waiver (Dispensa de Examen). In such cases, who is exempt from taking the nationality exam?
- Illiterate persons: Individuals who cannot read or write due to low levels of education in their country of origin are exempt from taking the exam. In most cases, the Ministry of Justice grants partial exemptions, which means that the applicant must still take the exam but in an oral format or adapted to their abilities.
- Persons with disabilities, disorders, or learning difficulties: Individuals with certain disabilities or disorders that prevent them from taking the exam in a conventional manner are also exempt. This includes people with visual or hearing impairments or those with disorders related to their attention or learning abilities, such as dyslexia or dysgraphia. However, this exemption requires a minimum of 65% disability.
- Foreigners who have studied in Spain: Individuals who have completed their secondary education (ESO) in Spain are also exempt from the exams. It is important to note that the exemption only applies if the ESO was completed successfully and that the exemption does not apply to foreign education institutions. Additionally, individuals who have completed other forms of higher education in Spain, such as a Bachelor’s degree, a technical degree, or a university degree, are also exempt.
How to apply for exemption from the nationality exams?
If you fall under any of the above-mentioned categories, you can apply for exemption by following the steps below:
- Gather the necessary documentation: For illiterate persons or individuals with disabilities, you will need to provide medical certificates, among other documents, to support your claim. For those who have completed their education in Spain, you will need to provide academic transcripts or certificates to prove your qualification.
- Download and complete the exemption request form: The Ministry of Justice has provided a downloadable form for individuals to request exemption from the exam. The form must be completed and signed by the applicant.
- Submit the application: You can submit your application through the Ministry of Justice’s electronic registry, any public registry office, or by post.
In conclusion, exemption from the Spanish nationality exam is possible under certain circumstances. If you fall under any of the categories mentioned above, you can apply for exemption (Full or partial) by following the outlined steps. This is an important process to know for those seeking Spanish nationality.
However, notice that the Ministry is taking years to answer and resolve these requests. And although almost six years have passed since the modification of this procedure for the acquisition of Spanish nationality, the Ministry of Justice has already indicated that there will be no legal text that regulates the entire issue of exemptions from Spanish nationality exams.
This causes many applicants to obtain Spanish nationality, either have given up on it or have begun to study and prepare each of the tests thoroughly.
