Time is running out for Cubans who wish to obtain Spanish nationality under the Democratic Memory Law. There are just over two months left, as the deadline expires on October 22, 2025.
Thousands of descendants of Spaniards in Cuba, some of whom reside abroad, have still not managed to start the process. Without credentials or a confirmed appointment, they will be excluded because, up to now, no extensions have been announced.
Since the end of July, everything must be managed through the new digital system of the General Consulate of Spain in Havana. The previous method, via email, is no longer available. Old credentials will expire on the same day the law expires.
From chaos to the new appointment system
The new system allows:
- Request credentials through an online form.
- Send multiple requests from the same email (with permanent access).
- Automatically receive a receipt with an electronic signature, valid even if the in-person appointment is after October 22.
Those who submitted their request through the previous system do not need to repeat the process. They will receive their receipt in chronological order, along with a username and password when applicable.
The diplomatic office explained that the new system respects the order of previous applications. However, the lack of automatic responses in the old method left many without evidence of having started the process.
This uncertainty and desperation to begin the application process have fueled a black market for credentials and fake documents, with prices reaching hundreds or thousands of euros. The consulate insists that the only valid information will be published on its official website and social media channels.
Tips for Avoiding Mistakes
The attorney and expert in the Law of Grandchildren, Mario Dueñas, warns that many rejections are due to basic errors:
- Illegible documents: when scanning or photographing, all data must be visible.
- Photo of the applicant with their identification document: the camera should focus on the card, not the face.
- Incorrectly entered data: errors in names, numbers, or punctuation can invalidate the process.
Those interested in obtaining Spanish nationality through the Law of Grandchildren must closely follow the official consulate guide and review each document before submitting it.
Since the beginning of the year, counterfeit birth and baptism certificates have been detected, particularly in Galician archives. Legitimate documents, which can be obtained in Spain for 10 euros, are being sold in Cuba for up to 3,000 euros. Controls to prevent counterfeiting have been tightened, both on and off the island, which slows down the process.
Strategy to Avoid Being Left Out
Cuban descendants of Spaniards who wish to initiate this process must hurry to obtain documents, which is extremely complex on the island because many times the Civil Registry offices do not even have electricity to serve their clients.
Once you have overcome the challenge of obtaining the essential documents, such as the birth certificates of the Spanish grandfather and other involved family members, you should pay attention to the following steps:
- Register now in the new appointment system of the consulate.
- Check that your data and documents meet the technical requirements.
- Keep the electronic receipt as proof of the initiation of the process.
- Avoid intermediaries and "express" offers to expedite the process.
Criticism over delays and disorganization persists, but this law continues to be an opportunity for descendants of Spaniards to access citizenship.
Being a Spanish citizen for many Cubans means not only reconnecting with their roots but also gaining in mobility, legal security, and a different future. Time is of the essence, and in this case, every day counts.
Frequently asked questions about obtaining Spanish nationality for Cubans under the Grandchildren Law
When is the deadline to apply for Spanish citizenship under the Law of Grandchildren?
The deadline for submitting new applications is October 22, 2025. If you manage to create your consular user account or secure an appointment before that date, you will be able to complete the process until 2028. This does not imply an extension of the deadline, but rather a guarantee for those who properly initiate the procedure within the official timeframe.
What are the most common mistakes when submitting documents for the Grandchildren's Law?
According to the expert Mario Dueñas, the most common mistakes are illegible documents and incorrect photos where the camera focuses on the face instead of the identity document. It is also crucial to correctly write the names and data on the submitted documents, as any mistake can invalidate the process.
What risks are there in using intermediaries for the nationality application process?
Using intermediaries can expose applicants to fraud and counterfeit documents, which, besides being illegal, are not recognized by the General Consulate of Spain. There is a black market where credentials and fake documents are sold, and the Consulate insists that the only valid information will be published on its official website and social media.
What should Cubans who have not yet begun their nationality process do?
Interested parties must register in the new appointment system of the Consulate of Spain in Havana immediately. It is crucial to verify that all data and documents meet the technical requirements and to save the electronic receipt as proof of the initiation of the process. Additionally, it is advisable to avoid intermediaries and follow the official consulate guide closely.
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