April 14, 2026, 2:38 p.mApril 14, 2026, 2:38 p.m
What’s new?
Spain wants to legalize around 500,000 migrants who are currently living in the country without valid documents. The left-wing minority government of Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has now launched a corresponding royal decree. This is intended to implement the necessary reform of immigration law.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez.Image: keystone
Since it is an amendment to an existing law, the reform by Royal Decree does not require parliamentary approval. It is expected to come into force in the next few days upon publication in the Official Journal.
How is the decision justified?
Sánchez defended the decision on the sidelines of a visit to China. It’s not just a question of “justice” towards people “who already live in our country,” he said. The step is supported by the Catholic Church and employers’ associations, among others, “because workers are needed so that we can continue to grow.”
Migrants near Barcelona.Image: keystone
The reform is “good for Spain, for the pensions of today’s retirees and for all of you when you retire,” he emphasized to Spanish journalists. Spain is one of the fastest growing economies in the EU. Madrid is convinced that migrants make a decisive contribution to this.
Which asylum seekers should benefit?
Asylum seekers who submitted their application before December 31, 2025, as well as economic migrants who complete a minimum stay of five months by the end of last year should benefit. As soon as the application is approved, you should be allowed to take up work.
What exactly will those affected receive?
The initial plan is to issue one-year residence and work permits. Minor children of the applicants can be legalized at the same time and should initially receive a permit that is valid for five years. The prerequisite is that the applicant has a “clean” certificate of good conduct.
Is there criticism?
Yes – right-wing parties do not agree with the decision. The conservative People’s Party (PP) led by opposition leader Alberto Núñez Feijóo has criticized the measure as “scandalous”, and the right-wing populists at Vox also announced resistance and a “campaign” against it.
(dab/sda/dpa)
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