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

In January 2026, Spain's government unexpectedly issued a decree allowing undocumented migrants already residing in the country to apply for temporary residency permits. The Socialist-led government, under Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, stated the measure is crucial for the Spanish economy, where migrant labor is significant in sectors like agriculture and tourism. Migration Minister Elma Saiz Delgado emphasized the positive impact on social cohesion, well-being, and the economy. This decision contrasts with the growing trend in other Western nations, including the United States and Britain, of implementing stricter immigration policies. While Spain has generally welcomed Latin American immigrants, the new decree faces opposition from far-right parties who plan to challenge it in court.

The Spanish government announced plans to grant legal status to undocumented immigrants living and working in Spain. The measure, affecting those residing in Spain for at least five months and who applied for international protection before December 31, 2025, could impact an estimated half a million to 840,000 people, primarily from Latin America. Once legalized, these individuals will be able to work in any sector and region of the country. The government highlights the positive impact of migration, contrasting with stricter immigration policies seen elsewhere, including the United States. The new policy aims to integrate undocumented migrants into the formal economy.

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.

Spain's government approved a decree to regularize an estimated 500,000 undocumented migrants and asylum seekers. The decree, expected to take effect in April, requires applicants to demonstrate they have no criminal record and resided in Spain for at least five months or sought international protection before December 31, 2025. The government stated the initiative aims to remove bureaucratic obstacles and promote a migration model based on human rights, integration, and economic growth. The decision follows pressure from the Podemos party and reflects Spain's view that migration is necessary for economic growth and to support its welfare state, contrasting with anti-migration policies in other parts of Europe.