MADRID: More than one million undocumented migrants have applied for legal status under Spain’s new regularisation programme, far exceeding the government’s initial expectations, Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has announced.
The scheme, introduced in April, aims to grant legal residency to eligible undocumented migrants. The government had originally estimated that around 500,000 people—many from Latin American countries—would benefit, but applications more than doubled that projection before the deadline.
Speaking at an event in Madrid, Sánchez said the overwhelming response showed that many people had been waiting for legal recognition and access to basic rights.
He said forcing people to live without legal status harms not only individuals but also society as a whole, adding that the initiative reflects Spain’s commitment to human rights and social inclusion.
The prime minister also argued that Spain needs migrants to address the challenges of an ageing population, labour shortages, rural depopulation, and to help sustain the country’s economy, welfare system and pension scheme.
Spanish authorities clarified that submitting an application does not guarantee legal status. Applicants must prove they have no criminal record and have lived continuously in Spain for at least five months before January 1.
Political analysts say the policy could intensify the ongoing debate over immigration in Europe, where several countries are tightening migration rules while Spain has adopted a comparatively more humanitarian approach.
