Spain Approves Citizenship for Tens of Thousands of Sahrawis Born Under Spanish Rule
PublishedEditorial policy
Spanish lawmakers have approved a new law granting citizenship to tens of thousands of individuals born in Western Sahara during Spanish administration. This measure aims to resolve the long-standing uncertain legal status for those born before the territory's transfer to Morocco, simplifying their path to an EU passpo
Key takeaways
- Tens of thousands of Sahrawis born under Spanish rule in Western Sahara will gain the right to Spanish citizenship, resolving their previously uncertain legal status.
- The new law will simplify migration and administrative procedures for this group, allowing consulates to process applications under new rules and providing access to European mechanisms.
- While addressing a historical issue, this decision may influence relations between Spain and Morocco, given the disputed status of Western Sahara.
Spain to Grant Citizenship to Sahrawis Born Under Spanish Administration
Spanish lawmakers have officially approved a law to grant Spanish citizenship to individuals born in Western Sahara during the period of Spanish administration. This significant decision affects tens of thousands of people who were born before the territory's transfer to Morocco, many of whom have long faced an uncertain legal status.
The new legislation addresses a historical issue, providing legal certainty for former residents of the Spanish colony. For those eligible, this means the opportunity to obtain a Spanish passport, which will open access to European procedures and significantly simplify migration-related matters. Administratively, Spanish consulates will now be able to accept applications from this group under these new provisions.
While resolving a long-standing humanitarian and historical challenge, this measure could potentially influence relations between Spain and Morocco, given the ongoing disputed status of the Western Sahara territory.
Sources
Based on Emigro corridor reporting. Primary links below.
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