The sharp increase in new citizenships in European Union countries is directly affecting Spain’s demographic and social landscape. For many residents, this brings new challenges in integration, education, and the labor market. The growth in naturalized citizens reflects not only migration trends, but also how states respond to changing realities.
According to Eurostat, nearly 1.2 million new citizenships were granted by EU countries in 2024, marking the highest figure ever recorded. This represents an 11.6% increase compared to the previous year. Germany, Spain, and Italy led the way, accounting for over half of all new passports. Germany granted 288,700 citizenships, Spain 252,500, and Italy 217,400. This surge is linked to changes in migration policy and the need to address new demographic challenges.
Leaders and trends
In Spain, most new citizens came from Latin American countries and Morocco. In Germany, the majority were from Syria and Turkey, and in Italyβfrom Albania and Morocco. Overall, 88% of the EUβs new citizens were originally from non-member countries. Only 10.6% received passports after previously holding citizenships of other EU states. Over the past decade, the number of naturalizations has grown by 54.5%βin 2014, the figure stood at 762,100.
Among the new citizens, the largest group are Syriansβ110,100 peopleβfollowed by Moroccans (97,100) and Albanians (48,000). In Germany, the impact of the Syrian crisis is evident, while in Spain, historical and cultural ties with Latin America are notable. This shift in the makeup of new citizens affects the linguistic and cultural environment, as well as demand for social services.
Differences between countries
The requirements for obtaining citizenship vary greatly across EU countries. In Sweden, for example, 7.5% of all foreigners are naturalized; in Italy, 4.1%; and in Spain and the Netherlands, 3.9% each. In Lithuania, Bulgaria, and Estonia, this figure does not exceed 0.5%. The reasons for this disparity include differences in residency periods, language proficiency criteria, and the specifics of integration programs.
In Spain, the citizenship process for people from Latin America has traditionally been simpler than for other migrants. This explains the high proportion of new citizens from this region. Meanwhile, Germany and Italy maintain some of the strictest requirements for integration and language skills in Europe.
Impact on Spain
The record rise in the number of new citizens is affecting Spainβs labor market, education system, and social infrastructure. The growing number of naturalized residents calls for adjustments to government programs and new approaches to integration. According to russpain.com, these changes could lead to the emergence of new professional and cultural communities, as well as an increase in the number of bilingual families.
In recent years, Spain has faced the need to revisit its migration policies and strengthen support measures for new citizens. This includes not only language courses but also employment and social integration programs. With an aging population, such measures are particularly relevant.
Context and related events
In 2022 and 2023, the European Union already reported an increase in new citizenships, but at a slower pace. At that time, the main reasons cited were the aftermath of the Syrian conflict and economic challenges in North African countries. In Spain, recent years have also seen a rise in citizenship applications from people from Venezuela and Colombia. Similar trends have been recorded in France and Belgium, where the number of new citizens from the Middle East and Africa is growing. Overall, experts note that these developments are becoming part of a long-term strategy to renew the population and sustain economic activity in EU countries.
