Spain's undocumented migrant amnesty draws big lines, and a big backlash
Summary
Spain has started a new program allowing undocumented migrants who have lived in the country for at least five months and have no criminal record to get a legal one-year residence permit that can be renewed. The program aims to help around 500,000 people gain legal status, but it faces opposition from political groups who are concerned about its impact on the labor market and the way it was approved without full parliamentary debate.Key Facts
- The amnesty program began in April 2026 and applications will be accepted until the end of June.
- Undocumented migrants must prove they have lived in Spain for at least five months and have no criminal record to qualify.
- Estimates of the undocumented migrant population in Spain range from 750,000 to 1 million people.
- Spain's government expects around 500,000 migrants to benefit from the program.
- Most undocumented migrants in Spain come from Latin America, especially Colombia and Venezuela, with others from Africa and Asia.
- Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez says the program will protect workers and support Spain’s economy, especially amid an aging population.
- Opposition politicians criticize the policy for bypassing full parliamentary approval and worry it may encourage more migrants to come to Spain.
- Critics also argue that Spanish citizens should fill available jobs to reduce unemployment, which is one of the highest in the EU.
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