Spain has announced a new policy that will grant residency and work permits to around 300,000 undocumented migrants each year for the next three years, starting in May 2025. The policy aims to expand the country’s aging workforce and address the need for foreign workers to maintain its welfare state. The Minister of Inclusion, Social Security, and Migration, Elma Saiz, emphasized that the regulation will focus on formation, employment, and family as keys to inclusion, with high standards in legal requirements and human rights. The reform simplifies the process for obtaining work and residence permits, allowing migrants to work as self-employed or salaried workers, and extends a visa previously offered to job-seekers from three months to one year.
The Spanish government views this new policy as a way to combat the country’s low birth rate and increase its labour force. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has been vocal about using migration policies to address demographic challenges and promote economic prosperity in Spain. The policy is also aimed at preventing the exploitation and abuse of undocumented migrants who are currently working in low-paid but essential jobs in Spain’s underground economy. Saiz highlighted that the new regulations will help combat mafias, fraud, and rights violations, and provide greater legal protections for migrants.
Spain is one of the European countries that sees a significant number of irregular migrants each year, with more than 54,000 entering irregularly from January to November 2024, a 15.8% increase from the previous year. Many of these migrants come from West African nations, seeking better job opportunities or fleeing violence and political instability. Prime Minister Sánchez visited several West African countries in August to address irregular migration to Spain’s Canary Islands, which are often seen as a gateway to continental Europe. The new policy aims to enhance legal and administrative procedures for migrants seeking work and residence permits, allowing them to contribute to Spain’s growing economy.
The Spanish economy has been one of the fastest-growing in the European Union, boosted by a strong rebound in tourism following the pandemic. In 2023, Spain issued 1.3 million visas to foreigners, according to government data. The new policy to legalize undocumented migrants is expected to further support Spain’s economic growth by expanding the labour force and providing legal protections for those currently working in vulnerable situations. Saiz emphasized that the policy is not only about cultural wealth and human rights but also about promoting prosperity in Spain. The government aims to create a more inclusive and sustainable workforce by granting residency and work permits to a significant number of undocumented migrants over the next three years.
Spain’s efforts to address irregular migration and strengthen its labour force through new policies reflect a broader commitment to economic growth and social inclusion. By legalizing undocumented migrants and simplifying the process for obtaining work and residence permits, Spain aims to provide greater opportunities for migrants to contribute to the economy and society. The new policy also aligns with Spain’s strategic goals to combat demographic challenges, promote economic prosperity, and prevent the exploitation of vulnerable populations. As the policy comes into effect in 2025, Spain looks towards a more inclusive and dynamic workforce that can drive continued growth in the coming years.
