Spain’s left-wing government is moving forward with a sweeping amnesty plan that could legalize between 500,000 and 800,000 migrants, one of the largest mass regularizations in Europe in recent years.

The measure would grant residency and work permits to migrants who have been living in Spain without legal status for several years, with officials arguing the move is necessary to address labor shortages, boost tax revenue, and bring undocumented workers out of the shadow economy. The plan is being backed by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez’s coalition, which relies heavily on support from far left and regional parties.

Critics say the amnesty will act as a powerful pull factor for illegal migration and reward those who entered the country unlawfully, while placing additional strain on housing, healthcare, and social services. Conservative opposition parties warn it will encourage human smuggling networks and undermine border enforcement at a time when Europe is already facing record migration pressure.

The proposal comes as Spain faces increasing arrivals from North Africa and mounting tension across the EU over how to handle migration, with several member states tightening asylum rules rather than expanding them.

If fully implemented, the plan would significantly reshape Spain’s labor market and immigration system, and could intensify political divisions both domestically and across Europe as migration remains one of the continent’s most contentious issues.