On November 19, 2024, Royal Decree 1154/2024 was approved, introducing significant changes to the regulation of provisional passports and safe-conducts. This legislation marks a major step forward in protecting Spanish citizens abroad, ensuring their mobility in exceptional circumstances.
What does this new Royal Decree entail?
Provisional Passport
The provisional passport is an urgent solution for Spanish citizens abroad who cannot wait for the issuance of a standard passport. Key scenarios include:
- Situations of illness, disability, or risk that prevent visiting a consulate.
- An urgent need for travel documentation without the possibility of returning to Spain.
This document has a maximum validity of 12 months, is for individual use, and incorporates advanced security measures.
Safe-Conduct
The safe-conduct is regulated for the following cases:
- Spanish nationals without a passport who need to return to Spain.
- Foreign nationals under international protection or relatives of Spanish citizens.
The safe-conduct is valid only for the time necessary to complete the journey, with a maximum validity of 15 days.
Alignment with European Law
This Royal Decree aligns Spanish regulations with European directives, integrating the new EU Provisional Travel Document (EU PTD). This model standardizes criteria and enhances security with globally recognized features.
Key Improvements in Security and Procedure
The Royal Decree strengthens the security of these documents by incorporating advanced technologies to prevent forgery. Additionally, it streamlines procedures through the use of electronic tools, ensuring more efficient responses.
Royal Decree 1154/2024 on the Issuance of Provisional Passports and Safe-Conducts
Here is the link to the official document published in the Boletín Oficial del Estado (BOE), which provides all the details on the new regulation of provisional passports and safe-conducts: Royal Decree 1154/2024.
Below, we provide the full text of Royal Decree 1154/2024 for your reference (in Spanish):
Why is this relevant for Spanish citizens and residents?
For many citizens abroad, having proper travel documentation is essential. This regulatory change simplifies procedures in critical situations, ensuring that Spanish nationals can exercise their right to mobility without unnecessary obstacles.
Our expertise at your service
At ARC Legal, we understand the importance of having the right documentation for any circumstance. Our firm, specialized in immigration law, is ready to assist you in applying for provisional passports or safe-conducts, ensuring an efficient and hassle-free process.