Spain’s Directorate-General for Legal Security and Public Faith has introduced revised regulations designed to streamline and simplify the nationality application process for descendants of individuals who suffered exile or persecution during Spain’s Civil War and the subsequent dictatorship. This revision grants these descendants the right to opt for Spanish citizenship, honoring the historical injustices their families endured. The updated framework amends the 2022 provisions established under the Democratic Memory Law, incorporating new online tools to make the application process faster, more accessible, and more user-friendly. This digital transition aims to enhance efficiency and reduce barriers for eligible applicants, particularly those living abroad, by facilitating secure online appointment scheduling and document submissions through Consular Offices.
Among the most significant improvements is the new option for applicants to book appointments online and receive confirmation receipts, which greatly streamlines the process. Now, applicants seeking Spanish nationality can easily schedule appointments at Consular Offices through a dedicated online platform, making the process faster, more convenient, and accessible from anywhere in the world. Additionally, the platform issues an official receipt upon booking, serving as proof that the appointment request was made within the legally required timeframe—regardless of when the in-person appointment actually occurs. This feature provides applicants with peace of mind, ensuring their request is recognized even if available appointment slots are limited. Overall, the updated system enables Consular Offices to manage and process applications more efficiently, reducing wait times and enhancing the experience for eligible descendants applying from abroad, while reaffirming Spain’s commitment to historical memory and accessibility.
This modification, aimed at ensuring fair and accessible pathways to Spanish nationality for eligible applicants, will take effect the day after its publication in the Official State Gazette. By expediting implementation, this change underscores the government’s commitment to honoring historical memory and providing descendants with a streamlined, equitable process to claim their rightful citizenship.