Spain has extended the Law of Democratic Memory (LMD), commonly known as the Grandchildren's Law, for another year. This law allows descendants of Spanish exiles during the Civil War and the Franco regime to acquire Spanish nationality. Ángel Víctor Torres, the Minister of Territorial Policy and Democratic Memory, announced during a press conference following the Council of Ministers meeting that the possibility to obtain Spanish nationality through this initiative will now be extended until October 2025.
The so-called Grandchildren's Law came into effect in October 2022 and was initially set to expire in October 2024. This regulation is part of the Eighth Additional Provision of the Law of Democratic Memory, which stipulates that those born outside of Spain to a father, mother, grandfather, or grandmother who were originally Spanish and lost or renounced their Spanish nationality for political, ideological, religious, or sexual orientation and identity reasons can apply for Spanish nationality.
Extension Details and Eligibility
The initial law required that nationality applications be formalized within two years of the Law of Democratic Memory's enactment on October 21, 2022. However, the Council of Ministers has decided to extend this period by one more year, giving descendants of exiles one last chance to obtain dual nationality. This law also includes children born abroad to Spanish women who lost their nationality by marrying foreigners before the 1978 Constitution took effect, as well as adult children of Spaniards who have had their original nationality recognized.
Torres described this extension as "magnificent news" that "will be celebrated by Spaniards who once again affirm their Spanish identity with all the established legal parameters." He added that in less than two years, 300,000 applications have been received, with Argentina and Cuba showing the highest demand. Nearly 15,000 Cubans became Spanish citizens in the first 10 months of the law's enforcement.
As of December last year, a total of 226,354 descendants of Spanish exiles and emigrants had applied for nationality under the Law of Democratic Memory, with 110,540 applications approved and 69,421 registrations completed, according to the 2023 Consular Activity Report. To apply for nationality through this route, it is necessary to present a birth certificate or baptism or marriage certificate of the Spanish parents or grandparents. Therefore, it is recommended to start searching in churches and towns in Spain to find the documents proving Spanish ancestry.
This extension provides a valuable opportunity for many Cuban descendants of Spanish exiles, who now have more time to gather the necessary documentation and submit their nationality applications, especially considering the lengthy wait times at the island's consulate.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Grandchildren's Law Extension
With the recent extension of Spain's Grandchildren's Law, many potential applicants might have questions. Here are some of the most common inquiries and their answers to help you navigate the process.
What is the Grandchildren's Law?
The Grandchildren's Law is a provision within Spain's Law of Democratic Memory that allows descendants of Spanish exiles during the Civil War and the Franco regime to apply for Spanish nationality.
Who is eligible to apply under the Grandchildren's Law?
Eligibility includes those born outside Spain to Spanish parents or grandparents who lost or renounced their nationality for political, ideological, religious, or sexual orientation reasons. It also includes children born abroad to Spanish women who lost their nationality by marrying foreigners before the 1978 Constitution.
What documents are required to apply for nationality?
Applicants need to present a birth certificate or a baptism or marriage certificate of the Spanish parents or grandparents to prove Spanish ancestry.
How many applications have been received so far?
As of December last year, 226,354 applications had been received, with 110,540 approved and 69,421 registrations completed, according to the 2023 Consular Activity Report.