Spain has announced plans to offer residency and work permits to approximately 300,000 undocumented migrants annually over the next three years. This policy, set to take effect in May, aims to address the country’s aging workforce while reinforcing its commitment to human rights and economic prosperity.
Migration Minister Elma Saiz emphasized that the initiative is not only about fostering cultural diversity but also ensuring the nation’s economic sustainability. Spain requires around 250,000 registered foreign workers each year to maintain its welfare system. Saiz noted, “Today, we can say Spain is a better country.”
The new policy, approved by Spain’s leftist coalition government, streamlines visa application processes and enhances labor protections for migrants. It also extends a job-seeker visa from three months to one year, offering greater opportunities for employment.
Spain has maintained a welcoming stance on migration, even as other European nations tighten restrictions. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has championed such policies as a response to the country’s low birthrate and a means of boosting its economy, which has seen significant growth, partly driven by a resurgence in tourism.
Many migrants currently work in Spain’s informal economy as fruit pickers, caretakers, and delivery drivers, often without legal protections. The new policy aims to combat exploitation, protect workers’ rights, and reduce the influence of human trafficking networks.
Spain remains a key destination for migrants from West Africa, with many undertaking perilous journeys to the Canary Islands. By mid-November, over 54,000 migrants had arrived in Spain via sea or land.
The government views the policy as a step toward creating a more inclusive society while addressing workforce shortages and ensuring the well-being of migrants and Spanish citizens alike.
