The Spanish Government has recently introduced modifications to the procedures related to the Law of Democratic Memory, also known as the Grandchildren’s Law.
These changes aim to provide greater flexibility for applicants facing difficulties in completing their application within the established deadline.
Let us recall that the «Grandchildren’s Law» is a set of statutes allowing descendants of Spaniards to obtain Spanish nationality.
Its objective is to honor the respect for human and democratic rights in Spain, particularly during the Spanish Civil War and the dictatorship of Francisco Franco (1936 to 1978).
This law allows interested parties to submit applications until October 22, 2025. However, recent adjustments have expanded the conditions under which the process can be completed, even beyond this deadline.
Extension of the Deadline for Completing Procedures
The change, published in the Official State Bulletin (BOE) on November 11, 2024, establishes that applicants who the respective consulate cannot attend to before October 22, 2025, will be able to finalize the process after that date.
To benefit from this extension, applicants need to demonstrate that they requested their appointment within the stipulated timeframe.
This adjustment seeks to ensure that administrative limitations, such as high demand at consular offices or delays in appointment scheduling, do not become insurmountable obstacles for those who meet the legal requirements.
How High is the Demand?
According to Spanish government data, from the law’s entry into force in October 2022 until March 31, 2024, «Civil Registry Offices at Spanish Consulates have received 301.121 applications for Spanish nationality by origin.»
«More than 95 percent of these applications have been received at Spain’s consular offices in Latin America and the General Consulate of Spain in Miami,» stated the Ministry of Inclusion and Social Security in a press release.
Grandchildren’s Law: The Importance of Early Preparation
Despite this flexibility, authorities emphasize the importance of starting the application process as early as possible.
The preparation and collection of the necessary documents can take six to ten months, depending on the case’s complexity and the required records availability.
Key documents include the literal birth certificate and others that establish the connection to the original Spanish citizen.
Applicants must plan ahead and maintain constant monitoring of their files to avoid unnecessary complications.
Additionally, seeking professional assistance is recommended to ensure all requirements are met correctly.
How AIM Global Can Assist You in This Process
While the modifications reflect the Spanish Government’s commitment to facilitating access to Spanish nationality for those who qualify, it is advisable to begin the process as soon as possible.
At AIM Global, we have a team of experts on this subject and offices in Europe. This allows us to facilitate the search for documents in Spain if necessary.
Don’t let time slip away—schedule a meeting with us now. We will guide you through every step of the process until you receive your passport.
