World Immigration News

Spain Shows Another Immigration Policy Is Possible

Release Date: 2026-01-31
Media: JACOBIN
Summary: Spain’s government has approved an extraordinary regularization process for undocumented migrants through a decree, potentially benefiting more than 500,000 people, and possibly up to 800,000. The measure applies to foreign nationals who entered Spain before December 31, 2024, can prove at least five months of residence, and have no criminal record. Successful applicants will receive a one-year renewable residence permit, with the process scheduled to run from April to June.

The decision is the result of sustained pressure from migrant and anti-racist organizations through the “Regularization Now” campaign, which gathered over 700,000 signatures. It stands in contrast to the increasingly restrictive immigration policies seen across much of Europe and the United States.

The policy reflects long-standing problems in Spain’s immigration system, which has left many migrants in prolonged irregular status, excluded from basic rights while supplying low-wage labor in sectors such as hospitality and construction. Similar large-scale regularizations were carried out by previous Spanish governments and contributed to increased participation in the social security system.

The decree was shaped by a combination of factors, including the impact of the pandemic on undocumented migrants, pressure from left-wing parties and civil society, support from the Catholic Church, and the government’s difficult political situation. While far-right groups have strongly opposed the measure and announced legal challenges, the regularization is seen as a significant alternative approach to migration policy and a potential example for other countries facing polarized immigration debates.
Tags: Spain

News Articles including "Spain"

Released on

Article Title