Spain enacts changes for Spaniards residing abroad

What changes will be implemented for Spaniards residing abroad in the coming months? The Government of Spain announced the approval of a new regulation aimed at Spaniards living abroad, with the goal of improving the protection and rights of the Spanish diaspora.

This regulations It will come into effect in the coming months and will bring significant changes in key areas such as access to consular services, political participation, and the recognition of rights abroad.

One of the most significant changes is the facilitation of consular procedures. With the digitization and simplification of administrative processes, citizens will be able to carry out tasks such as passport renewal, civil registration, and consular registration more quickly and efficiently.

Additionally, improvements have been made to the political participation of Spaniards abroad. The regulation aims to facilitate registration in the Electoral Register of Absent Residents (CERA) and to streamline the voting process in general, regional, and municipal elections, thereby ensuring greater access to the right to vote.

Another key aspect is the recognition of labor rights and social security. Agreements have been established with host countries to ensure the portability of rights acquired in Spain, including retirement pensions, access to healthcare, and employment contributions.

This will especially benefit those who have emigrated for work reasons and wish to return in the future.

New benefits for Spaniards living abroad?

Likewise, the new regulation strengthens the protection of Spanish citizens in emergency situations.

Assistance protocols in cases of natural disasters, health crises, or international conflicts have been improved, enabling faster and more effective action by consulates in evacuating or supporting at-risk citizens.

Finally, new aid and grants have been announced for emigrants who decide to return to Spain. These economic and reintegration programs will facilitate their reentry into the Spanish labor market.

The implementation of this regulation will be progressive, with some measures coming into effect in the coming weeks and others being developed throughout 2025.

With more than 2.8 million Spaniards living abroad, this regulation represents progress in protecting their rights, although emigrant associations are demanding more resources to ensure its effective implementation.