Spain grants 'grandchildren law' nationals access to public healthcare without residency

Spanish nationality obtained through the **Grandchildren Law** allows access to public healthcare without residing in Spain, equalizing rights but sparking debate over the fiscal counterpart.

## access to public healthcare

The **Grandchildren Law**, officially **Law 20/2022**, has peine the door for thousands of descendants of Spaniards abroad to obtain nationality. One of the most discussed consequences is the possibility of accessing **Spanish public healthcare** without having to establish residency in the country. This means that, once nationality is recognized, these individuals would have the same health rights as any resident Spanish citizen, regardless of where they live and whether or not they have contributed to the Spanish social security system.

## economic and social implications

This universal access to public healthcare, without direct fiscal contribution from those who do not reside in **Spain**, raises questions about the system's sustainability. While the aim is to facilitate the integration and return of descendants, the absence of contributions or taxes paid in **Spain** by these beneficiaries could create an imbalance. Public healthcare is mainly funded through residents' taxes, so extending this right to those who do not contribute fiscally can be seen as an additional burden on the system.

## an ongoing debate

The issue is not just a matter of rights, but also of fairness and fiscal responsibility. The possibility of using high-quality public services without having contributed to their financing is a sensitive point. While the **Grandchildren Law** seeks to repair historical situations and strengthen ties, managing these rights in the context of the **European Union** and cross-border mobility requires a detailed analysis of bilateral agreements and each country's regulations. It is a complex issue that touches the essence of citizenship and contribution to society.