The Law of Democratic Memory allows children and grandchildren of Spaniards access to Spanish nationality.
This opportunity legally comes into force on 21 November 2022 and it also applies to children and grandchildren of Spaniards exiled during the Civil War:
Seventh additional provision
“Persons whose father or mother had been originally Spanish may opt for the Spanish nationality of origin if they formalize their declaration within two years from the entry into force of this Additional Provision. The above mentioned, term will be able to be extended by agreement of the Council of Ministers up to the limit of one year. 2. This right will also be recognized to the grandchildren of those who lost or had to renounce to the Spanish nationality because of the exile”.
Advantages of Spanish nationality granted by the Law of Democratic Memory
- Right to reside and work.
Right to reside and work in Spain or in any country of the European Union, extensible to spouses and dependent children.
- Courses and studies in the EU.
Right to take undergraduate or graduate courses in European universities, with the corresponding fees for EU citizens.
- Spanish passport.
Visa-free entry to countries that do not require visas for Spaniards. This is the second most powerful passport in the world according to Passport Index.
- Right to public health care.
Right to public health care in case of emergency, in case of not having medical coverage in the country of habitual residence and universal health care if residing in Spain.
- Protection at consulates.
Protection at Spanish consulates in any country.
- No need to renounce current nationality.
It is not necessary to renounce the current nationality, it is a dual nationality.
Where, how and when should the application be submitted?
This should be submitted in person at the Civil Registry of the interested party’s address (Consulate of Spain in London, Manchester or Edinburgh) together with a photocopy of the application, which will be stamped and returned to the interested party to serve as proof that the application has been submitted on time.
The deadline for applications is within two years from 21 October 2022
If, when submitting the declaration of option, the requirements are not accredited, the applicant will be obliged to complete the test within 30 calendar days of being requested to do so.
To submit your application at your Consular Office, you must go in person to the following address with the application form (and photocopy) together with the corresponding documentation.
