Pope Leo is set to visit the Canary Islands as part of his upcoming trip to Spain, placing global focus on one of Europe’s key migrant entry points. The visit, scheduled from June 6 to 12, will mark his first trip to a European Union country outside Italy since becoming head of the Catholic Church.
During the final days of his visit, the pontiff will travel to the islands of Tenerife and Gran Canaria, where he is expected to meet migrants and organizations working to support them. The Canary Islands have become a major route for migrants attempting to reach Europe, often risking dangerous sea journeys.
According to reports, more than 3,000 people died in 2025 while trying to reach the islands, many travelling in small, unsafe boats. The situation has raised serious humanitarian concerns and drawn attention from international leaders and aid groups.
Pope Leo’s visit comes at a time when the Spanish government, led by Pedro Sánchez, has introduced a large-scale migrant regularisation programme. The initiative could allow up to 500,000 undocumented migrants to apply for legal status within a year, aiming to improve integration and reduce irregular migration challenges.
Beyond the Canary Islands, the Pope will also visit Madrid, where he is scheduled to meet King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia. He is expected to deliver key speeches at the Royal Palace and the Spanish Parliament, addressing national and global issues.
The trip will include a stop in Barcelona, where Pope Leo will inaugurate a new tower of the famous Sagrada Familia, one of the world’s most iconic churches. He will also visit the historic monastery in Montserrat and take part in a prayer vigil with young people.
Pope Leo, who recently completed a tour across Africa, has become increasingly vocal on global issues, including migration and humanitarian crises. His visit to the Canary Islands is expected to reinforce his call for more compassion and coordinated international action to support migrants.
The Spain trip will be his fourth international journey outside Italy, following visits to Monaco, Lebanon, and Turkey. Shortly after, he is also expected to travel to Lampedusa, another major arrival point for migrants crossing into Europe.
As migration continues to shape political and humanitarian debates across Europe, Pope Leo’s visit signals a renewed effort by the Catholic Church to draw attention to the human impact behind the crisis.