Spain is moving ahead with a broad regularization of irregular migrants via a decree, following a political deal between the ruling left coalition and Podemos, framing it as a humane, rights-based approach to integrate migrants into the economy.

The government notes that millions have already entered Spain in recent years, mostly legally, and positions the measure as part of a broader immigration stance that contrasts with trends in the United States and parts of Europe.

Applications for regularization are anticipated to run from April through the end of June, with a processing window of up to three months per applicant.

Authorities say resources will be allocated to process applications efficiently and to expedite access to residence permits under exceptional circumstances.

The decree aims to reduce informal work, curb labor exploitation, broaden the tax base, and boost GDP and formal employment, drawing on precedent from the 2005 amnesty which issued hundreds of thousands of permits.

The push traces back to a citizen-backed initiative, backed by hundreds of thousands of people and around 900 social organizations, presented in 2024.

The measure seeks to expedite access to residence permits under exceptional circumstances, strengthen legal security for irregular foreigners, and safeguard fundamental rights.

Employers could gain access to a large pool of legally employable workers in high-demand sectors such as hospitality, logistics, and elder care, with guidance for a smooth shift to formal payrolls.

Estimates of beneficiaries range from just over 500,000 to about 600,000, with the government citing a growing underground population around 840,000 as a rationale for regularization.

The government indicates hundreds of thousands who arrived before the end of 2025 and have lived in Spain for at least five months will be eligible for residency and work permits, potentially without parliamentary approval.

Opposition from conservative PP and far-right Vox warns of risks to labor markets and social services, arguing the move could incentivize illegality and affect national identity.

Migrant rights groups and Catholic organizations welcomed the measure, highlighting long-running campaigns and substantial public support for similar reforms.