Historic Regularization Approved by Royal Decree
The Spanish government, led by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez's Socialist Workers' Party (PSOE), has approved a significant measure to regularize the legal status of approximately 500,000 undocumented migrants residing in the country. The decision was announced on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, by Migration Minister Elma Saiz, who hailed it as a 'historic day'. This initiative will be implemented through a royal decree, a mechanism that allows the government to bypass parliamentary approval.
Eligibility and Application Process
To qualify for this extraordinary regularization, applicants must meet specific criteria:
- They must have arrived in Spain before December 31, 2025.
- They need to prove at least five months of continuous residence in Spain.
- Applicants must not possess a criminal record.
The application period is anticipated to commence in early April 2026 and conclude by June 2026. Successful applicants will initially receive a provisional residence authorization valid for one year, which can then be converted into an ordinary authorization, granting them legal residency and work permits across all sectors.
Addressing Economic and Demographic Challenges
The government's decision is largely driven by a need to address Spain's pressing economic and demographic challenges. Minister Saiz emphasized that the policy aims to expand the country's aging workforce and combat its low birthrate. Spain reportedly requires around 250,000 registered foreign workers annually to sustain its welfare state. The regularization is also framed as a move to reinforce a migratory model based on 'human rights, integration, and coexistence' that supports both economic growth and social cohesion.
Political Context and Public Support
This measure follows a popular legislative initiative (ILP) that garnered over 700,000 signatures and received support from hundreds of non-profit organizations under the RegularizaciónYa platform. The agreement to proceed with the decree was reached between the ruling Socialist Workers' Party (PSOE) and its left-wing partner Podemos. While welcomed by migrant rights groups, the use of a royal decree to bypass parliamentary debate has drawn criticism from conservative opposition parties.
5 Comments
Muchacha
The economic argument for a younger workforce is compelling, yet the rapid legalization of so many could undeniably strain social services and infrastructure in the short term.
Bella Ciao
It's positive to bring people out of the shadows for better integration, but the government must provide clear plans for their housing, employment, and social support to avoid future issues.
Comandante
This is about dignity and integrating people who contribute. Well done, Spain!
Africa
Half a million new mouths to feed, bodies to house. Who pays for this?
Coccinella
Acknowledging the reality of people living and working here is practical, however, the lack of parliamentary oversight on such a massive policy shift raises valid concerns about transparency and accountability.