Through judgment 155/2025, issued on February 13, the Supreme Court has introduced greater flexibility in interpreting the criteria for granting Spanish nationality by residence. This ruling focuses on the requirement of "integration into Spanish society," emphasizing that rigid and uniform standards should not be applied to meet this criterion. Instead, it is considered essential to take into account the individual circumstances of the applicant.

In the analyzed case, the court clarified that failure to provide the certificate of registration should not be automatically interpreted as a lack of integration into society. This document, which certifies habitual residence, can be substituted by other means that allow for demonstrating the applicant's residency. Similarly, the Supreme Court emphasized that the lack of proof of independent means of livelihood should not be grounds for denying nationality, as this requirement is not formally established in nationality application procedures, although it is required in procedures for obtaining a residence permit.

The judgment highlights that the analysis of integration must consider a variety of personal and social factors. In the specific case, the applicant was married to a Spanish citizen, forming a stable family unit with sufficient income from the spouse. This marital bond is presented as a key proof of integration into Spanish society. Additionally, the applicant met other important requirements, such as legal and continuous residence in Spain for the stipulated period, favorable police and criminal record reports, passing examinations on constitutional and cultural knowledge, and sufficient documentation to prove a known domicile.

The ruling also establishes that the Administration is obliged to assess the applicant's personal and social circumstances in a reasoned manner, avoiding the application of general or a priori criteria that might exclude valid cases. The flexible approach promoted by the Court seeks to ensure that the evaluation of integration is inclusive and provides an analysis tailored to each particular situation.

In conclusion, the judgment emphasizes the importance of considering integration in its broadest sense, encompassing not only economic aspects but also family, cultural, and social relationships that demonstrate the applicant's connection to Spanish society. With this decision, the Supreme Court sets a precedent for a more humane and personalized approach to nationality applications by residence, strengthening the principles of justice and proportionality.