Spain began accepting applications on April 1 for an extraordinary regularization program targeting up to 500,000 undocumented migrants. The Interior Ministry anticipates around 750,000 submissions but expects about 500,000 approvals after reviews for eligibility.

Foreign nationals who resided in Spain for at least five months before December 31, 2025, qualify, provided they have no criminal record. Asylum seekers who applied before that date also qualify. Successful applicants receive a one-year residence and work permit valid for any sector nationwide, renewable thereafter. Minor children of qualifiers gain five-year permits.

The program, approved by royal decree and published in the Official State Gazette on April 4, runs until June 30. Applicants must prove continuous residence via documents like municipal registrations, rental contracts, or employment records. The government plans to double staff at Foreign Offices, open pop-up centers in major cities, and process decisions within 90 days.

Migration Minister Elma Saiz announced the initiative on January 27, calling it a step toward a migration model based on human rights, integration, and economic growth. Officials cite labor shortages in agriculture, construction, caregiving, and tourism, where migrants fill key roles amid an unemployment rate below 10%. The measure formalizes underground workers, boosts social security contributions, and addresses a reality affecting coexistence and the economy.

This marks Spain's seventh mass regularization since 1985, the largest since 2005, when over 576,000 gained status. It originated from a 2024 citizen initiative with over 700,000 signatures. The Catholic Church has praised the amnesty.

Conservative opposition, including the Popular Party and far-right Vox, criticizes the plan for straining public services and potentially encouraging irregular arrivals despite an 18% drop in sea migrants last year. Vox plans a Supreme Court challenge over the decree's approval without full parliamentary debate. Police unions echo concerns about service pressures.

Spain's approach contrasts with tightening policies elsewhere in Europe. Many beneficiaries hail from Latin America, having often entered legally but overstayed their visas. Employers must register approved workers in social security within 30 days and pay any back taxes.