Spain Finalises Amnesty Plan For Undocumented Migrants

Spain has finalised a major amnesty plan that will allow hundreds of thousands of undocumented migrants to apply for temporary residence permits, in a move described by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez as “an act of justice and a necessity.”

The policy, approved via a royal decree, paves the way for eligible migrants to regularise their status and formally participate in the country’s economy, including paying taxes.

The left-leaning government had earlier announced the initiative this year, positioning it as a response to labour needs and demographic challenges, even as several European countries adopt stricter migration policies.

Under the new measure, only migrants who can prove they arrived in Spain before January 1, 2026, will be eligible, a condition aimed at preventing a surge in new arrivals following the announcement.

Applicants must also demonstrate at least five months of residence in the country and provide evidence of a clean criminal record.

Successful applicants will receive a one-year temporary residence permit, after which they may apply for longer-term work or residency status.

Migration Minister Elma Saiz said applications will begin in person on April 20, with online submissions opening shortly after, and the process expected to close on June 30.

The government estimates that about 500,000 undocumented migrants could benefit from the scheme, though some analysts suggest the figure could be as high as 840,000.

Spain, with a population of nearly 50 million, has seen a significant rise in foreign residents in recent years, many of whom work in key sectors such as agriculture, tourism, and services.

Defending the move, Sánchez said the policy reflects the reality of migrants already integrated into Spanish society.

“We recognise rights, but we also demand obligations,” he wrote. “That those who already form part of our day to day do so on equal terms, contributing to the sustenance of our country and of our model of coexistence.”

He added that he felt “proud to be Spanish” for introducing the measure, describing it as a step towards fairness and inclusion.

However, the plan has drawn criticism from the opposition Popular Party, which argues that the policy is unsustainable and could strain public resources.

There are also concerns about the government’s capacity to process applications, with immigration officials calling for additional resources to manage the expected surge in demand.

Despite the backlash, the concept of migrant regularisation is not new in Spain, with similar measures implemented multiple times between 1986 and 2005.

The latest move, however, was fast-tracked through a decree, effectively bypassing parliament where it lacked sufficient support.