Spain’s socialist-led government has announced the regularisation of 500,000 undocumented migrants and asylum seekers, a move that goes against the anti-immigration tide sweeping Europe. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez defended the plan, saying it is about recognising rights and empathy, not radicalism.
The time-limited scheme will grant successful applicants a legal residence permit valid for one year. Sánchez argued that migration is essential for economic growth and maintaining the welfare state in a country with one of the EU’s lowest birth rates. He cited figures showing migrants contribute 25% of Spain’s per capita GDP, 10% of social security revenues, but only 1% of public expenditure.
The plan has drawn criticism from the conservative People’s Party (PP) and the far-right Vox party, which claimed it would overwhelm public services and accelerate an “invasion”. However, Sánchez has previously diverged from European peers on migration, notably welcoming the Aquarius rescue boat in 2018 when Italy and Malta refused entry.
The regularisation comes at a politically challenging time for Sánchez, with his party facing corruption allegations and far-right Vox rising in polls. Analysts suggest the move allows him to differentiate himself from opponents and align with left-wing allies and voters who support the scheme.
