Administrative consultant Mario Dueñas, a specialist in Spanish nationality applications via the Law of Democratic Memory (LMD), commonly referred to as the Grandchildren Law, cautions newly nationalized individuals in Cuba against traveling to Spain without the necessary certification to obtain a Spanish identity card (DNI). Without this document, they cannot regularize their status or that of their families, nor can they work. Speaking to CiberCuba, he highlighted that thousands of Cubans in Spain are currently waiting over eight months for this certification. During this prolonged wait, their documents, legalized in Cuba, often expire before they can process their residency.
"We're inundated daily with calls from people asking about their DNI certification. The answer is always the same: it’s not ready. Requests made to the Central Registry go unanswered, sometimes for five months, due to the lack of digitalization. We consistently advise those preparing to travel to Spain for the first time: if you don't have the DNI certification, don't come. Without it, you’ll merely be a Spanish tourist in Spain," Dueñas warned.
Challenges Faced by Cubans in Spain Awaiting DNI Certification
Currently, over 10,000 Cubans in Spain find themselves in this precarious situation. They arrive with their passports but lack the certification necessary to obtain their first DNI. Dueñas explained, "Without a DNI, you can’t register for employment, healthcare, or any essential services. You become stuck, unable to integrate fully into society."
The process of obtaining a DNI certification starts with scheduling an appointment at the consulate, which opens for booking only once a month. The limited availability of appointments and the uncertainty regarding the number of certifications issued exacerbate the situation. Dueñas noted that the Central Registry in Madrid reports that the consulate has not updated the necessary information, leaving many in limbo.
Legalizing Elderly Cubans in Spain: A Daunting Task
Dueñas also highlighted the challenges in legalizing elderly Cuban immigrants. The new Immigration Law Regulations, effective May 20, prioritize the immigration of younger individuals and those over 80. Those below this age must prove financial dependence on their child in Spain, showing they don’t receive a pension in Cuba and rely on monthly remittances of 300 euros.
For retired elderly who arrive before the age of 67, the standard Spanish retirement age, they are expected to find employment. Dueñas pointed out the difficulties of regularizing status through social integration, especially for those entering with an invitation letter. This process demands either employment or educational enrollment, regardless of age.
During Thursday's CiberCuba program, Dueñas also addressed the Spanish Consulate in Havana’s announcement. It reminded the public that credentials from the old system are being phased out, and those issued after April 2025 should secure appointments promptly.
Key Issues in Obtaining Spanish DNI for Cubans
Why is the Spanish DNI certification important for Cubans?
The Spanish DNI certification is crucial because it allows Cubans to regularize their status in Spain, enabling them to access employment, healthcare, and other essential services. Without it, they remain in a state of legal uncertainty.
What are the challenges faced in obtaining the DNI certification?
The main challenges include a slow response from the Central Registry, limited appointment availability at the consulate, and the lack of digitalization of necessary documents. This results in prolonged waiting times and expired legal documents.
How does the new Immigration Law affect elderly Cuban immigrants?
The new law favors immigration of younger people and those over 80. Elderly Cubans under 80 must prove financial dependence on a child in Spain, making it challenging for those who don’t meet these criteria to legalize their status.