Spain Proposes Plan to Expedite Legal Status for Hundreds of Thousands of Undocumented Immigrants
Spain’s government presented a draft decree to formalize half a million undocumented workers. The measure aims to support growth and stabilize labor markets.
The Socialist-led government of Spain 
ES presented a draft decree today, Tuesday, January 27, 2026, aimed at expediting the legal status of approximately 500,000 undocumented immigrants. Migration Minister Elma Saiz elma saiz announced the measure at a news conference, explaining that the policy seeks to formalize workers in key economic sectors at a time when other European nations are moving to restrict immigration. The government estimate suggests the move will primarily benefit people from Latin America who are already residing and working within the country.
ES presented a draft decree today, Tuesday, January 27, 2026, aimed at expediting the legal status of approximately 500,000 undocumented immigrants. Migration Minister Elma Saiz elma saiz announced the measure at a news conference, explaining that the policy seeks to formalize workers in key economic sectors at a time when other European nations are moving to restrict immigration. The government estimate suggests the move will primarily benefit people from Latin America who are already residing and working within the country.Eligibility for the program requires that individuals have established residency in Spain ES for at least five months as of the end of 2025. Applicants must also have no criminal record or have filed a prior asylum application before the end of 2025. Once approved, the residency permit will be valid for one year, or five years in the case of children, and will be renewable. Under the proposed framework, migrants could become citizens after 10 years, though this pathway is expected to be faster for refugees or nationals from Latin American countries.
ES for at least five months as of the end of 2025. Applicants must also have no criminal record or have filed a prior asylum application before the end of 2025. Once approved, the residency permit will be valid for one year, or five years in the case of children, and will be renewable. Under the proposed framework, migrants could become citizens after 10 years, though this pathway is expected to be faster for refugees or nationals from Latin American countries.
