In surprise new policy, migrants living in Spain without permission can apply for legal residency
Spain to Grant Legal Residency to Undocumented Immigrants
Spain to Grant Legal Residency to Undocumented Immigrants
On Tue, Oct 31, 2023, the Spanish government announced a new policy to grant legal residency to undocumented immigrants residing in the country. This initiative aims to provide legal status and work authorization for up to one year to individuals who meet specific criteria.
The policy applies to immigrants who arrived in Spain before December 31, 2025. Applicants must demonstrate residence in Spain for at least five months. Applicants are required to have no criminal record.
Spain to Grant Legal Residency to Undocumented Immigrants On Tue, Oct 31, 2023, the Spanish government announced a new policy to grant legal residency to undocumented immigrants residing in the country.
Migration Minister Elma Saiz announced that the government will amend existing immigration laws through an expedited decree. The measure is estimated to potentially benefit between 500,000 and 800,000 individuals, primarily from Latin American and African countries, who contribute significantly to Spain's agricultural, tourism, and service sectors.
The decree is expected to be effective from April 2024, allowing eligible immigrants to apply for legal status. This move circumvents a similar bill that was stalled in parliament and was a result of a last-minute agreement between the ruling Socialist Party and the Podemos party.
The decision follows extensive advocacy efforts by migrant rights groups and religious associations, which had previously gathered 700,000 signatures for a comparable legislative proposal.
Based on reporting by Africanews.
