Spain has announced a major policy change to legalise undocumented migrants living in the country. The decision could benefit more than 500,000 people. Officials say it is the largest regularisation effort in Spain in two decades.
The announcement was made by the Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security, and Migration. Minister Elma Saiz called it a historic step. She said the policy reflects a rights-based approach to migration.
Under the new plan, migrants without criminal records can apply. They must prove they lived in Spain for at least five months before December 31, 2025. Applications must be submitted before the end of 2026.
Successful applicants will receive a one-year residence permit. This permit can later be renewed. The application process will open in April and close at the end of June.
To qualify, applicants must provide valid passports and police clearance certificates. This has created long queues outside embassies and consulates. Foreign missions across Spain report heavy crowds.
Pakistani embassies have also seen large numbers. Many Pakistani citizens are expected to benefit from the new policy. People have been waiting for days to secure documents.
Foreign media say the surge shows strong demand. Migrants want to legalise their status as soon as possible. Many fear missing the deadline.
Spain has seen a sharp rise in undocumented migration. A recent study showed numbers rose from 107,000 in 2017 to over 837,000 in 2025. Most arrivals came from Latin America.
The largest groups include migrants from Colombia, Peru, and Honduras. Economic challenges and instability in their home countries drove the movement.
The government links migration to economic growth. Spain expects economic growth near 3% in 2025. Unemployment has dropped below 10% for the first time since 2008.
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez said migrants support the economy. He said they contribute to social security and fill labour gaps. Left-wing parties supported the move strongly.
Irene Montero of Podemos said giving rights reduces racism. She said legal status brings dignity and stability.
However, opposition parties raised concerns. Conservative leader Alberto Núñez Feijóo warned of pressure on public services. The far-right Vox party said it harms national identity.
Vox confirmed it will challenge the policy in court. Despite criticism, the government will approve the measure by royal decree.
Spain last carried out such a large regularisation in 2005. That effort also legalised hundreds of thousands of migrants.
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With this new step, Spain aims to reshape its migration system. The government hopes it will improve integration and economic participation.
