Spain legalizes up to 500,000 undocumented migrants, sparking backlash

Spain's Socialist-led government approved a decree to legalize up to 500,000 undocumented migrants who entered the country before the end of 2025, have lived there for at least five months, and have no criminal record. The migrants will be eligible for one-year residency and work permits, with potential pathways to citizenship. The government cites economic benefits, particularly for Spain's aging workforce, as the reason for the policy. This decision contrasts with tightening immigration policies in other European countries. The plan has drawn criticism from conservative parties, like Vox, who argue it will encourage irregular migration and harm Spaniards. Experts suggest the move challenges the dominant European approach to immigration and could create problems for neighboring countries.

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