Spain’s government has approved a new plan to grant legal status to around 500,000 undocumented migrants, marking a major shift at a time when many European countries are tightening their migration policies. The decision, announced after a cabinet meeting in Madrid, is being presented by officials as a step toward a more humane and economically practical migration system.
Migration Minister Elma Saiz said the move would allow eligible migrants to work legally “in any sector, in any part of the country.” She described the reform as part of a migration model based on human rights, integration, and social cohesion, while also supporting Spain’s economic growth. According to the government, the exact number of people who could benefit is an estimate, but it is expected to be close to half a million.
The regularisation will apply to undocumented migrants who have been living in Spain for at least several months and who applied for international protection before the end of last year. Applicants must not have a criminal record. The measure will also cover their children already living in Spain, helping many families move out of legal uncertainty.
The application process is expected to begin in the spring and run for several months. The government plans to pass the measure through a decree, which means it will not require a full parliamentary vote. This approach is significant because the ruling Socialist-led coalition does not currently have a majority in parliament.
Spain’s leaders argue that migration is essential for the country’s future. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has repeatedly said that foreign workers are helping to fill labour shortages and support an ageing population. Official data show that migrants have made up a large share of recent job growth, contributing to one of the strongest labour market performances in Europe.
Supporters of the plan say it will help bring people out of the shadow economy, allowing them to pay taxes, access formal jobs, and integrate more fully into society. The Spanish Catholic Church and several social organizations have welcomed the decision, calling it a step toward fairness and social stability.
However, the proposal has faced sharp criticism from conservative and far-right opposition parties. Leaders from the Popular Party argue that the move could encourage more irregular migration and put pressure on public services such as healthcare, housing, and education. They have pledged to change migration policies if they return to power.
Spain is one of Europe’s main entry points for migrants, especially those crossing from Africa by sea. In recent years, many arrivals have reached the Canary Islands via the Atlantic route, one of the most dangerous migration paths in the world. Others arrive through the Mediterranean, including routes from North Africa. Despite a recent drop in overall arrivals, thousands still attempt the journey each year.
Cooperation between Spain and countries such as Morocco and Mauritania has helped reduce crossings in some areas through increased patrols and action against smuggling networks. At the same time, human rights groups warn that tougher border controls often push migrants toward even more dangerous routes. Organizations monitoring migration say thousands of people continue to die at sea while trying to reach Europe.
With more than seven million foreign nationals already living in Spain, migration remains a central political and social issue. The new regularisation plan highlights a clear difference between Spain’s approach and that of some other European governments that are focusing more on deterrence and restrictions. As the policy rolls out, it is likely to shape debates across Europe about how to balance border control, economic needs, and human rights.