Spain’s socialist-led coalition government has approved a measure to grant legal status to 500,000 undocumented migrants and asylum seekers, setting itself apart from the anti-immigration policies common in much of Europe.
The decree, set to take effect in April, will apply to hundreds of thousands of people. To qualify, applicants must have no criminal record and prove they lived in Spain for at least five months—or had applied for international protection—before the end of 2025.
After Tuesday’s cabinet meeting, Inclusion and Migration Minister Elma Saiz called it a “historic day,” saying the move aims to “break the bureaucratic barriers of the past.” She added that the program, enacted by royal decree without needing parliamentary approval, would benefit the entire country by reinforcing a migration model “based on human rights, integration, and coexistence” that supports both economic growth and social cohesion.
The decision followed pressure from the left-wing Podemos party, former allies of the socialists. Podemos leader Ione Belarra welcomed the deal on social media, stating, “No one else has to work without rights.”
Spain has increasingly stood out in Europe for its approach to migration. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez told parliament last October that the country, facing demographic challenges, needs migration to grow its economy and maintain its welfare system. “Throughout history, migration has been one of the great drivers of the development of nations,” he said.
The move was praised by migrant advocacy groups. The Brussels-based Platform for International Cooperation on Undocumented Migrants called it “a powerful reminder that regularisation is not only possible—it works, and it’s the right thing to do.” Spain’s Regularisation Now! movement also welcomed the decision, noting it comes amid a wider European trend of tightening borders and criminalizing migrants.
However, the conservative People’s party (PP) and the far-right Vox party strongly criticized the measure. PP leader Alberto Núñez Feijóo accused Sánchez of using the announcement to divert attention from a recent deadly train crash, claiming it “rewards illegality” and would strain public services. Vox, which is gaining support with its anti-migrant stance, condemned the move even more harshly.Santiago Abascal, leader of the far-right Vox party, invoked the “great replacement” conspiracy theory and called for the mass deportation of migrants, using the far-right euphemism “remigration.” He denounced Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, claiming, “Five hundred thousand illegals! Sánchez the tyrant hates the Spanish people. He wants to replace them—that’s why he’s using a decree to promote the pull effect and accelerate the invasion. He must be stopped. Repatriations, deportations, and remigration.”
Such regularisation programs are not new in the EU; over a dozen countries implemented 43 such measures between 1996 and 2008. In Spain, nine programs have been carried out since the return to democracy, with the conservative People’s Party (PP) having enacted more than any other party.
The current initiative originated from a citizen-led proposal, signed by over 700,000 people and supported by nearly 900 social organizations, which was presented to parliament in 2024.
High levels of migration have contributed to lowering Spain’s unemployment rate to its lowest point since 2008, with migrants filling critical labor shortages in an aging population.
Even some of immigration’s staunchest critics acknowledge its economic role. In June, Italy’s far-right Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who has long portrayed irregular migration as a threat to Europe, announced plans to issue nearly 500,000 new work visas for non-EU nationals in the coming years, on top of the 450,000 already granted since she took office.
Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a list of FAQs about Spains measure to grant legal status to undocumented migrants designed to be clear and helpful
Beginner Definition Questions
1 What exactly did Spain just approve
Spains government has passed a law that will allow an estimated 500000 undocumented migrants who have been living and working in the country to apply for legal residency and work permits
2 Who qualifies for this legalization
To qualify individuals must have entered Spain before November 1 2021 have lived there continuously for at least two years and have no serious criminal record They must also show proof of employment for at least six months or a job offer
3 Is this a blanket amnesty for all undocumented people
No its not a blanket amnesty Its a regularization process with specific requirements People must apply and provide evidence to be approved
4 Why is Spain doing this now
The government cites several reasons to recognize the contributions of migrants already integrated into society to reduce labor exploitation in the informal economy to boost social security revenues through taxes and to address labor shortages in key sectors like agriculture and hospitality
Process Practical Questions
5 How do people apply for this
Applicants must submit a formal application to the immigration office providing documents that prove their identity entry date continuous residence for two years and employment history or a job offer
6 What kind of residency permit will they get
Successful applicants will receive a temporary residence and work authorization typically valid for one or two years initially which can be renewed and eventually lead to longterm residency
7 Will this allow people to bring their families to Spain
Once a person obtains legal residency they gain the right to apply for family reunification allowing spouses and minor children to join them legally subject to standard requirements like proof of stable housing and income
8 What are the biggest challenges applicants might face
The main hurdles are gathering the required documentation navigating the bureaucratic process and potentially facing long waiting times for application processing
Impact Advanced Questions
9 What are the main benefits for Spains economy
The measure aims to bring a large portion of the workforce out of the informal shadow economy
