Uruguay migration and nationality policy reforms

The Uruguayan government has introduced legislative and administrative measures to address the legal status of foreign-born residents and asylum seekers.

In early October 2026, the administration of Yamandú Orsi proposed a law to grant nationality to ‘legal citizens’ born abroad. This initiative aims to resolve constitutional distinctions between natural citizens and those who have met residency requirements but lack formal nationality. Undersecretary of the Presidency Jorge Díaz stated the proposal seeks to end “decades of inequality” regarding passports and travel documentation, though it would maintain restrictions preventing these individuals from running for the Presidency.

Concurrently, a new decree established a permanent residency pathway based on roots to address a significant backlog of asylum applications. This measure targets foreigners who entered the country before January 1, 2026, including those with pending asylum claims or those whose status was definitively rejected. The policy is expected to heavily impact the Cuban community, which represented approximately 89% of pending asylum cases as of June 2026. Applicants must demonstrate legal entry, lack criminal impediments, and provide proof of financial self-sufficiency.