Cuban Grandchildren's Law: What to do to obtain Spanish nationality after the deadline

The end of the Democratic Memory Law (LMD), popularly known as the Grandchildren's Law, marks a turning point for thousands of Cubans and Latin Americans who have seen this legislation as an opportunity to obtain Spanish nationality. The final deadline is October 22nd. 2025, deadline for submitting files under this legislation.

However, the Spanish Embassy in Havana has clarified that there are still options for those who have already started their process or have certain valid documents.

According to the Spanish consulate, those with an application receipt with an electronic signature will be able to continue the process even after the appointment system closes.

It's important to differentiate this receipt from the simple auto-response email many people received when trying to register.

The real receipt comes from the address ppgad@pucrs.brIt contains data such as an identifier, application number, and a Secure Verification Code (CSV). This detail will be key to validating the procedure on the electronic site.

For those who failed to submit their documentation by the deadline, the path to obtaining Spanish nationality will depend on other legal mechanisms. These include long-term residence in Spain, marriage to Spanish citizens, or new legislative reforms that may be approved in the future.

Although more restrictive, these avenues remain open. They may represent an alternative for those unable to access the LMD.

The closure of this legal route is a severe blow to many Cubans. They saw Spanish citizenship as an opportunity for mobility, security, and access to a passport with greater international benefits.

However, the introduction of new consular communication tools, such as the recently announced WhatsApp channel, and the expansion of diplomatic infrastructure demonstrate that Spain is seeking to respond to the large volume of requests.

So even though the Grandchildren Law ends on October 22, those who already have a valid proof of birth will still be able to move forward with their application.

For the rest, learning about the current pathways and meeting the established requirements will be key to keeping the option of becoming Spanish alive.