Bill proposes Spanish nationality for Sahrawis born under Spanish sovereignty

Automatic summary, not yet reviewed

1. The bill would grant Spanish nationality by letter of naturalization to Sahrawis born in Western Sahara before February 26, 1976, even if they do not legally reside in Spain, and sets out which documents prove that condition.
2. Direct children of those who obtain nationality this way would have five years, counted from the Civil Registry registration, to also opt for Spanish nationality.
3. The application process would be free of charge, with a two-year window to apply (extendable by one more year), and a decision would be issued within twelve months. If there is no answer in that period, the application is deemed denied.
4. The bill would amend the Civil Code so that Sahrawis can obtain nationality by residence after two years, like other groups with historical ties to Spain, instead of the general ten years.

Who it affects

• Sahrawis born in Western Sahara before February 26, 1976: They could obtain Spanish nationality by letter of naturalization by applying within the set deadline.
• Direct children of those people: They would have five years to opt for Spanish nationality if their parent obtains it.
• Sahrawis seeking nationality by residence: The reduced two-year legal residence period in Spain would apply to them.

Words worth knowing

Carta de naturaleza (letter of naturalization)

A way of granting Spanish nationality for exceptional reasons, without requiring years of residence.

Silencio administrativo (administrative silence)

If the administration does not answer within the deadline, the application is considered denied.

Registro Civil (Civil Registry)

Public office where key life events, such as birth or nationality, are recorded.

Apostillada (apostilled)

Official seal that makes a foreign document valid in Spain.

It summarizes the text as it was introduced. It is written by artificial intelligence and may contain mistakes: the official text is what counts. Read the official text · How we make summaries