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One of the most valuable aspects for UK-based families is that children do not have to give up their British nationality when they acquire Spanish nationality. Spanish law allows them to hold both passports simultaneously.
The practical benefits are considerable. A Spanish passport confers the rights of EU citizenship, including freedom of movement and residence across all member states. This opens doors to European universities, employment opportunities, and cultural exchanges. A British passport preserves all existing rights in the UK. Together, they create a flexibility that is rare in today's immigration climate.
When a child reaches adulthood, they can continue to hold both passports, provided they make a formal declaration of their wish to retain Spanish nationality before turning twenty-one. Families who secure nationality early therefore not only give their children immediate advantages, but also secure lasting rights into adulthood.
The application process
The application itself must be lodged at the Spanish Consulate, with London and Edinburgh handling most cases from the UK. Parents need to provide the child's birth certificate, evidence of their own Spanish nationality, and other supporting documentation.
While the principle is straightforward, the practicalities can be complex. Certificates may need to be legalised or translated, consulates can apply slightly different administrative rules, and appointment systems are under heavy strain due to high demand before the LMD deadline. Many families find that professional guidance makes the process more predictable, ensuring that documents are correctly prepared and that consular requirements are met without delay.
What it means for families
For parents, securing Spanish nationality for their children is rarely just about paperwork. It is about creating a future in which those children can choose to live, study or work in Spain and across Europe as easily as in the UK. It is about giving them the cultural and emotional connection to their family's heritage, formalised in law. And it is about ensuring that opportunities are not lost because of shifting political deadlines.
By recognising the distinction between the temporary nature of the LMD and the enduring protections of the Civil Code, families can approach the process with confidence. Their children's entitlement is safe, not bounded by 2025.
How Buckles supports families
Every case is unique. Some families are motivated by practical opportunities such as education or employment mobility. Others see it as a way of preserving cultural heritage. Whatever the motivation, we provide clarity, reassurance and expert guidance from start to finish.
At Buckles, we understand the mixture of urgency and uncertainty families are experiencing. For parents who have secured nationality under the LMD, the next priority is often their children. Our specialist team provides a complete service, from reviewing eligibility, retrieving certificates in Spain, preparing and translating documents, to guiding applications through the consular process.
By securing Spanish nationality now, parents give their children a future enriched by two passports, two cultures and two sets of rights. At Buckles, we are committed to making that future a reality, helping families navigate the process with confidence and peace of mind.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.
