Spanish government to approve a migrant regularization decree

Tuesday 27 January 2026 - 08:20

By: Sahili Aya

Spanish government to approve a migrant regularization decree

The Spanish government is set to approve a decree launching an extraordinary regularization process for migrants already living in the country. The initiative, expected to be validated by the Council of Ministers, stems from a political agreement within the governing coalition and aims to provide legal status to hundreds of thousands of people.

The measure targets foreign nationals who have been residing in Spain for several months and who meet basic requirements such as the absence of a criminal record. Applicants will be required to prove their presence in the country through a range of documents, including registration records or alternative evidence such as medical reports, rental contracts, or utility bills.

Once an application is submitted, administrative expulsion or return procedures would be temporarily suspended. Applicants would receive a provisional residence permit allowing them to work legally and access essential services, including healthcare. If approved, the authorization would initially be valid for one year, after which migrants could apply for a standard residence permit under existing immigration rules.

According to the government, the decree seeks to respond to a social reality by reinforcing a migration policy based on human rights, integration, and legal certainty. By using a royal decree, the executive can implement the measure directly, avoiding parliamentary deadlock that has previously slowed similar initiatives.

Supporters of the reform describe it as a matter of social justice and economic responsibility, arguing that regularization helps reduce labor exploitation and strengthens social cohesion. The decision places Spain among European countries exploring more inclusive approaches to migration management.