Ricardo Yela Trivino.
2026.
Pathways to European citizenship: a comparative case study of Spain and Poland
CMR Working Papers 141/199 | pages: 32
Abstract
This working paper examines the processes by which third-country nationals can acquire Spanish or Polish citizenship. While both European Union countries provide expedited pathways for specific groups, these groups, the particular citizenship requirements, and the scale of naturalisation vary significantly. Although the analysis of citizenship pathways has received considerable academic
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attention, few studies adopt a comparative perspective. This study aims to bridge that knowledge gap by employing a comparative case study approach, utilising legal interpretive and descriptive statistical methods, covering the period from 2014 to 2023. It addresses key questions: What are the legal pathways for obtaining residency and acquiring citizenship in Spain and Poland? Which groups are granted expedited processes, and why? What are the similarities and differences in access to citizenship between the two countries? The research investigates the laws and economic and social factors that influence citizenship acquisition in both nations. Key findings suggest that Spain's high naturalisation rates are linked to a simplified naturalisation process, with an A2 language requirement, rooted in strong historical ties that benefit nationals from Ibero-American countries. In contrast, Poland's significantly lower naturalisation rates are attributed to more rigorous B1-level Polish language requirements, which pose considerable barriers, especially for non-Slavic speakers. Both countries apply ius sanguinis and offer expedited routes, such as Spain's reduced residency requirements for specific nationalities or Poland's “Pole's Card” and presidential grants. Ultimately, their distinct approaches to integration and language proficiency shape the accessibility of citizenship, leading to varying outcomes for immigrants.
Keywords
Naturalisation Pathways, Comparative Case Study, Third-Country Nationals, Ius Sanguinis, Expedited Naturalisation, Historical and Cultural Ties, Language requirements, Karta Polaka, Spain, Poland
