In an increasingly globalized world, European citizenship is not just a document confirming one’s membership in a country – it is also a real opportunity for freedom of travel, access to a developed labor market, quality public services and the possibility of settling in almost all EU countries. So it’s no surprise that many people are looking for ways to obtain it. One of the most commonly considered paths is to marry a citizen of an EU member state.
However, there have been a lot of myths and simplifications around this topic recently. Is a civil marriage enough to get a passport? Does divorce automatically cancel citizenship? Or is living together with an EU partner for a few months enough? The truth is more complicated, and regulations vary depending on the country – so it’s worth approaching this topic with expert knowledge to dispel the most popular doubts.
Therefore, below we will present the key facts and dispel the myths about obtaining European citizenship through marriage, based on the current regulations valid in 2025. If the topic of living in Europe interests you deeply, then take a look at fivetoeurope.com, where you can find practical information and advice on relocation, citizenship and living in EU countries. Below we’ll start separating fact from fiction already.
Myth 1: Marriage automatically grants citizenship
Fact: Marrying a citizen of an EU country does not mean that citizenship is automatically granted. In most EU countries, it is only the first step, which allows for legal residency and the eventual start of the naturalization procedure after meeting additional conditions, such as length of life together, language skills or integration into the local society.
For example:
- In Spain, a foreigner who is the spouse of a Spanish citizen can apply for citizenship after only one year of legal residence, provided the marriage is still valid and they are living together.
- In Germany, at least three years of marriage and two years of living together in the country are required before one can apply for naturalization.
- In France, on the other hand, it is possible to obtain citizenship after four years of marriage if the spouses live in France. If they live abroad, the time is extended to five years.
Myth 2: Fictious marriage is a quick way to get an EU passport
Fact: Fictitious marriages are a serious crime throughout the European Union and are severely punished. Immigration authorities in member states have extensive verification procedures in place to assess the authenticity of relationships – through interviews, document checks and even visits to the place of residence.
A proven marriage of convenience can result:
- revocation of the right of residence,
- fine or imprisonment,
- ban from entering the Schengen area,
- loss of confidence in future migration proceedings.
In practice, then, marriage must be a lasting, real relationship – not a “passport contract.”
Myth 3: A civil wedding in an EU country is enough to apply for citizenship
Fact: Getting married, even in an EU country, does not mean automatic entitlement to citizenship. The key element is legal residence and meeting the requirements set by the country in question. In some countries, you must have a permanent residency card, in others, you must confirm residency and cultural integration.
In addition, each member state has separate regulations:
- Italy requires a minimum of 2 years of marriage and residence in the country, or 3 years if the spouses live outside Italy (time halved if they have children together).
- Portugal allows naturalization after 3 years of marriage, regardless of residence – provided they can prove strong ties to the country, such as through language and cultural knowledge.
Myth 4: Language knowledge and integration are not needed
Fact: Most EU countries require documented knowledge of the official language and basic information about the country’s system, culture and history. Language tests and so-called integration tests are therefore now standard in naturalization procedures.
For example:
- In the Netherlands, knowledge of Dutch of at least A2 level is required.
- In Germany, a candidate must pass the “Einbürgerungstest,” a test of civic knowledge.
- Australia (outside the EU, but often compared) also has an extensive civics test.
Some countries offer exemptions from these requirements for the elderly or those with health problems, but these are the exception, not the rule.
Myth 5: Citizenship acquired through marriage can be easily lost
Fact: Citizenship granted on the basis of naturalization, including by marriage, has the same legal force as any other. It cannot be revoked just because the marriage ended in divorce. Loss of citizenship is possible only in strictly defined cases, for example, as a result of fraud in the application (false documents, concealment of information).
However, it is worth remembering that in the case of a divorce before the naturalization procedure is completed, it can be terminated if the relationship with the citizen was the main basis for the application.
