Spanish Congress advances law granting nationality to Sahrawis born under Spanish rule

The Spanish Congress has taken a decisive step towards granting nationality to Sahrawis born under Spanish administration, as the relevant committee approved the bill's draft on Tuesday. The initiative, which had been stalled for over a year, now moves to final votes expected in July. The law would benefit an estimated 50,000 people and reduce residency requirements for Sahrawis to two years, aligning them with Ibero-American countries Source: La VanguardiaSource: Infobae.

The vote

The ponencia (drafting committee) approved the bill with support from PSOE, Sumar, and other left-wing allies, while PP and Vox voted against and Junts abstained Source: El Mundo. The PSOE had previously opposed the bill in 2025 but changed its stance, leading to a bipartisan agreement Source: El Español.

Key provisions

• Nationality by carta de naturaleza: Recognizes exceptional circumstances for those born in Western Sahara before August 11, 1977 Source: Euronews.
• Residency reduction: From 10 to 2 years of legal residence for Sahrawis applying for nationality Source: Infobae.
• Documentation: Accepts expired Spanish IDs, UN census records, birth certificates, and other documents Source: El Mundo.
• Application: Free of charge, with a three-year window from the law's entry into force Source: La Vanguardia.

The law also extends nationality to first-degree descendants within five years Source: Euronews.

Political context

The advance comes amid a heated debate on immigration and citizenship. Prime Minister Sánchez announced a €505 million integration plan, framing the law as part of a 'Spain of inclusion' Source: La Vanguardia. Critics from PP and Vox argue the measure is too broad and could impact the electoral roll, especially given the ongoing 'ley de nietos' controversy Source: El Español.

Next steps

The text will be debated in the Justice Committee on July 14 and could be definitively approved by the full Congress on July 24, before the summer recess Source: Infobae.