Spain plans to give half a million undocumented migrants legal status

BBC News - WorldCenterEN 2 min read 100% complete January 27, 2026 at 05:59 PM

AI Summary

medium article 2 min

The Spanish government plans to grant legal status to an estimated half a million undocumented migrants. The regularisation process, expected to begin in April and last until the end of June, will offer a one-year residence permit, extendable thereafter, to those without a criminal record who can prove they resided in Spain for at least five months before December 31, 2025. The move aims to integrate migrants, promote economic growth, and address humanitarian concerns. Spain has seen a significant increase in undocumented migrants, primarily from Latin America, in recent years. The government views immigrants as vital to the economy and social security system, and the measure will be approved by royal decree.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

European Union 40% Podemos 50% Funcas 50% Honduras 60% Colombia 60% Peru 60% Pedro Sánchez 60% Irene Montero 60% Elma Saiz ×270% Spain ×990%

Keywords

undocumented migrants 100% legal status 90% regularisation 80% migrant integration 70% residence permit 60% human rights 50% social cohesion 50% economic growth 50% royal decree 40% spanish economy 40%