Spain: Popular Party Proposes Revoking Naturalized Citizenship for Serious Crimes
PublishedEditorial policy
Spain's Popular Party (PP) has introduced a bill that would allow judges to revoke Spanish citizenship from naturalized foreigners convicted of serious crimes. This measure would apply only to those who obtained citizenship through naturalization, not to residents.
Key takeaways
- If you are a naturalized Spanish citizen, be aware that your citizenship could potentially be annulled by a court as part of a sentence for a serious crime. While not automatic, the risk would be real.
- The proposed law would only affect naturalized citizens (those who have completed the process and obtained a passport), not holders of residency permits (VNJ). However, the very existence of such a proposal indicates a direction in policy.
- This is currently a bill from the Popular Party, not an enacted law. Its passage depends on the parliament. Nevertheless, for those pursuing or having already obtained naturalization, it serves as a signal that Spanish citizenship may become more conditional.
Proposed Bill: Citizenship Revocation for Serious Crimes
Spain's Popular Party (PP) has introduced a legislative proposal aimed at allowing the revocation of Spanish citizenship for naturalized foreigners who commit serious crimes. Under this proposed bill, judicial authorities would gain the power to annul citizenship as an additional penalty, separate from imprisonment or fines.
This measure specifically targets individuals who have already obtained Spanish citizenship through naturalization (e.g., from NIE to citizenship), and would not apply to foreign residents holding a residency permit (VNJ). If the bill passes, a judge could decide to revoke citizenship in addition to the primary sentence for a serious offense. This proposal reflects a tightening of immigration policy, consistent with the PP's broader political agenda.
It is important to note that this is currently a legislative proposal from the Popular Party and not yet a law. Its adoption depends on parliamentary approval. However, for those on the path to Spanish citizenship or who have already naturalized, this proposal signals a potential shift towards more conditional citizenship in Spain.
Sources
Based on Emigro corridor reporting. Primary links below.
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