How to Cast Your Vote from Cuba in Spain's November 29 Elections: A Guide for New Citizens under the Grandchildren Law

Spanish nationals residing in Cuba have the opportunity to participate in Spain's general elections scheduled for November 29. However, it is crucial for them to be accurately registered in the Census of Absent Residents (CERA) to cast their votes.

This process is particularly significant for the burgeoning community of Spanish citizens on the island, especially those who recently acquired nationality through the Democratic Memory Law, commonly known as the Grandchildren Law. A specific challenge arises for this group, as the Supreme Court temporarily suspended certain electoral effects linked to CERA entries from this nationality route, unless the individual can prove descent from exiled Spaniards.

Possessing a Spanish passport does not automatically guarantee voting eligibility on November 29. It's essential for individuals to verify their specific status within the electoral roll.

Changes to Voting Procedures: No More Requested Votes

The Ministry of the Interior clarifies in its official voting guidelines that Spaniards permanently residing abroad can partake in general elections if they are enrolled in CERA. One significant update from previous elections is the removal of the "requested vote" requirement, following a reform of the Organic Law of the General Electoral Regime (LOREG) in 2022. Now, the Electoral Census Office proactively sends electoral documentation to those correctly registered in CERA.

Checking Your CERA Status: A Crucial Step

Confirming one's inclusion in CERA is a crucial task for Spaniards living in Cuba. According to LOREG, the electoral roll for each election is closed on the first day of the second month prior to the announcement. If the Royal Decree is activated on October 6, the applicable census will be the one closed as of August 1, 2026. This is especially relevant for those who have recently obtained Spanish nationality or updated their consular registration.

Implications for Grandchildren Law Nationals

For thousands of Cubans who recently obtained Spanish citizenship via the Democratic Memory Law, there is an additional consideration. In September, the Supreme Court provisionally suspended certain electoral effects and new CERA registrations related to this nationality method, unless the applicant can demonstrate descent from exiled Spaniards. This precautionary measure does not revoke Spanish nationality but may temporarily affect voting rights.

Therefore, Cubans who have recently gained nationality through this law should not assume automatic voting eligibility on November 29. They need to check their registration status and determine if they fall within the exceptions outlined by the judicial ruling.

Receiving Electoral Documents Automatically

Eligible voters listed in CERA will receive electoral materials at their registered address. The Electoral Census Office is responsible for sending necessary documents, including voting envelopes, CERA registration certificates, and instructions, between 18 and 24 days following the election call. With an October 6 announcement, this period likely falls between October 24 and October 30.

Voting Options from Cuba: In-Person or By Mail

CERA voters can either vote in person at designated consular centers or send their votes by mail. In-person voting is permitted from November 21 to November 26. The Consulate General in Havana will announce the locations and hours for this process. Alternatively, voters can mail their ballots by November 24, ensuring arrival by November 27, to be valid.

Mail-in votes should include the voting envelope, a CERA registration certificate, and a copy of the Spanish passport or DNI. These documents must be sent to the consulate, which will forward them to Spain for counting.

Key Dates for Cuban Residents

Here are critical dates for Spanish nationals in Cuba:

• October 6: Expected publication of the election announcement.
• October 12-19: Estimated period for electoral roll consultation and claims.
• October 24-30: Legal timeframe for the initial CERA documentation dispatch.
• November 4-8: Planned distribution of official ballots, barring objections.
• November 21-26: In-person voting at authorized consular locations.
• November 24: Final day for mailing CERA votes.
• November 29: General election day.

These dates are derived directly from LOREG timelines based on a potential October 6 decree activation. The schedule will be confirmed once the Royal Decree is published and specific instructions are issued by the Electoral Census Office and the Consulate General in Havana.