Spain's Migration Ministry reports overwhelming participation in the migrant legalization program, aimed at integrating undocumented workers into the formal labor market amid strong economic growth.
Madrid, Spain – The Spanish government announced on Monday it has received approximately 900,000 applications from undocumented migrants seeking legal status through a national regularization program, doubling the initial forecast of 500,000 requests. The Migration Ministry emphasized that this campaign targets the formal integration of undocumented migrants into the labor market, addressing critical sectorial labor shortages amid Spain’s robust economic growth over recent years.
Non-profit refugee organization CEAR anticipates applications will surpass one million by the program’s conclusion in two weeks. Since April, the government has granted about 360,000 temporary work permits, roughly 40% of the applications received. Migrants whose applications are accepted may begin employment immediately.
Pilar Cancela, Secretary of State for Migration, stated Spain has the capacity to process up to one million applications from April through June but acknowledged that demand outpaces permits granted. The country’s longstanding immigration system delays have left approximately 840,000 undocumented migrants awaiting residency permits while often working informally.
CEAR’s director, Monica Lopez, described the program as extraordinary but called for systemic reforms to streamline access to work and residence permits and prevent marginalized groups in society. Spain’s open immigration policy contrasts with other European countries tightening borders, recognizing migrants’ vital contributions to sectors like hospitality and elder care, which have helped drive economic growth.
Sources referenced:
- https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/world/991562/spain-900-000-applications-migrant-legalization-drive/story/