Spain announced today, January 27, 2026, that it will grant legal status to around 500,000 immigrants, including illegal immigrants and asylum seekers, in a major nationwide regularization drive. The decision was approved in Madrid after the weekly cabinet meeting and will take effect in April, aiming to move undocumented immigrants into lawful work and stable housing.
The government says the plan targets people already living in Spain who have built lives but remain without papers. Officials argue legal status will protect basic rights and support an economy that needs workers in key sectors.
Who Is Eligible To Get Legal Status In Spain
The decree applies to asylum applicants and undocumented immigrants who were in Spain or had applied for protection before December 31, 2025. Applicants must show they have no criminal record and meet basic proof of stay rules. The measure is issued by royal decree, so it does not require a parliamentary vote.
Many expected beneficiaries are immigrants from South Asia and Latin America, including workers from Pakistan and India who are active in farming, delivery services, care work and small businesses. Community groups say legal documents will reduce fear of checks and help families access healthcare, rental contracts and formal jobs.
Supporters say regularization also improves public safety by bringing people into official systems and tax records. Employers have long complained about staff shortages, especially in agriculture, tourism, construction and elderly care.
Opposition parties warned the move could strain public services and encourage more illegals to come. The government rejects that claim, pointing to past programs in Spain and across the EU that did not lead to sudden migration spikes.
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