The government of Spain, in its 2023 Consular Activity Report, highlighted that its Consulate in Havana was one of the offices that issued the most Spanish passports in the past year. The report details that the Consular Offices have been processing nationality applications under the Law 20/2022, known as the Democratic Memory Law (also referred to as the Grandchildren's Law), which addresses a long-standing demand of the Spanish community abroad.
"From October 21, 2022, to December 31, 2023, 226,354 applications were received in the consular network, with 110,540 files approved and 69,421 registrations completed," the document states.
This official report was presented on May 21 by the Spanish Minister of Foreign Affairs, José Manuel Albares. The data indicate that the Consular Offices that issued the most passports are Buenos Aires with 38,127 documents, followed by Havana with 25,221 passports delivered. Other notable consulates included Mexico (22,243), Caracas (17,177), London (14,439), Bogotá (13,282), Paris (12,425), and Miami (10,824).
In February, the government of Spain extended the application period for nationality through the Democratic Memory Law until 2025. Amid the current migration crisis in Cuba, this measure was welcomed with hope by many descendants of Spanish exiles. Due to delays in the Civil Registries on the island, many are still processing their applications to benefit from this law.
It is estimated that Cuba is the second country with the highest number of beneficiaries of the Grandchildren's Law, with over 22,000 approved applications since the law came into effect. Only Argentina surpasses it, with 33,796 grants of Spanish nationality through this route.
Key Details on Spain's Democratic Memory Law
Below are some frequently asked questions regarding Spain's Democratic Memory Law, particularly concerning its impact and implementation in Cuba.
What is the Democratic Memory Law?
The Democratic Memory Law, also known as the Grandchildren's Law, is legislation that allows descendants of Spanish exiles to apply for Spanish nationality.
How many applications have been approved in Cuba under this law?
Over 22,000 applications have been approved in Cuba since the law came into effect.
Which consulate issued the most Spanish passports in 2023?
The Consulate in Buenos Aires issued the most Spanish passports in 2023, with a total of 38,127 documents.