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REGULARISATION OF MIGRANTS IN SPAIN
Migrant Regularisation in Spain 2026: The Facts
On 27 January 2026, the Spanish government approved an accelerated regularisation of migrants via a royal decree. Here is what you need to know:
What is true? (The rules)
• Target group: Approximately 500,000 migrants who were already residing in Spain before 31 December 2025.
• Requirement: You must prove you have lived in the country for at least five months (e.g., via municipal registration, medical records, or rental contracts).
• Procedure: Applications can be submitted from April to June 2026. Processing will take a maximum of three months.
• Work: Applicants are allowed to work as soon as the application is officially submitted.
• Background check: A criminal record check is mandatory.
What is not true? (The limitations)
• No passport: The scheme grants a temporary residence and work permit, not citizenship.
• No voting rights: Participants do not receive the right to vote.
• Not for newcomers: Anyone who arrived in Spain after 31 December 2025 is not eligible.
Political context
The measure stems from a citizens' initiative with 700,000 signatures. While the government emphasizes economic necessity, opposition parties fear it will encourage new migration.
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