Spain Plans to Regularize 900,000 Undocumented Migrants with Residency and Work Permits Over the Next Three Years

Key Highlights

1. Spain's new policy aims to grant residency or work permits to over 300,000 undocumented migrants annually starting in 2025, reaching around 900,000 by 2027.  
2. The program will enable migrants to register as self-employed or salaried workers, addressing critical labour shortages.  
3. This initiative is part of a broader effort to counter the challenges posed by Spain's ageing population.  

Spain is set to implement a new policy starting May 2025 that will allow over 300,000 undocumented migrants annually to obtain residency or work permits. By 2027, this initiative is expected to regularize approximately 900,000 individuals, tackling labour market shortages while addressing concerns over the country’s ageing demographic.  

Authorities emphasize that this policy will provide legal opportunities for undocumented individuals already in Spain, aiming to integrate them into society and the workforce effectively.  

"The regulation opens doors that were previously closed using three keys: education, employment, and family. These keys lead to inclusion, upheld by high legal standards and human rights principles."  
Elma Saiz, Spain’s Minister of Inclusion, Social Security, and Migration  

In addition to granting permits, the Spanish government plans to streamline application processes and improve accessibility for potential applicants.  

Addressing Labour Shortages and Supporting Undocumented Migrants  

Spain requires an estimated 250,000 additional workers annually to sustain its economy. Instead of relying on outsourcing, the government has chosen to integrate thousands of undocumented migrants already within its borders.  

Between January and November 2024, Spain received 54,000 irregular migrants, a 15.8% increase from 2023, according to the Interior Ministry. The new reforms will provide these individuals with opportunities to work legally, whether as salaried employees or self-employed professionals, while ensuring labour rights. Additionally, the reforms extend a visa for job-seekers from three months to one year.  

Migrant Origins and Entry Routes  

Data from Frontex shows that 9,564 irregular border crossings were recorded on the Western Mediterranean route from January to August. Many migrants enter through Spain's Canary Islands, often coming from Algeria, Morocco, or Mali.  

Overall, the EU recorded 139,847 irregular border crossings during this period, with the Central Mediterranean route, including Spain and Italy, being the busiest entry point.