Legalization of Migrants in Spain in 2026: Number of Applications Nears 900,000

Spain has launched a large-scale emergency legalization program for migrants, which has already exceeded the government’s projections for the number of applications submitted. The program is based on Royal Decree No. 316/2026 and provides for the issuance of residence and work permits. Learn more about the conditions for legalization in Spain in 2026, application deadlines, and the program’s initial results

Spain’s emergency migrant regularization program has received significantly more applications than the government expected. According to data cited by ImiDaily, as of mid-June, approximately 900,000 applications had been submitted—nearly double the initial forecast of 500,000. The application period ends on June 30, 2026.

Who is eligible for legalization, how many permits have already been issued, and how this program fits into Spain’s migration strategy—we’ll cover all of this in the article below.

Are you planning to move to Spain or do you want to legalize your stay?

An immigration lawyer from the Visit World portal will analyze your situation, advise you on available options for obtaining legal status, and guide you through every step of the process.

What does Royal Decree No. 316/2026 entail?

The document was published in the Official State Gazette (BOE) on April 15, 2026, and took effect the following day. The decree introduced two new mechanisms: one applies to individuals who filed applications for international protection before the start of 2026, and the other establishes the so-called “arraigo extraordinario”—an extraordinary right of residence based on ties to the country (employment, family, or proven vulnerability).

Applicants receive a one-year residence and work permit, renewable upon expiration. Individuals who meet the following requirements are eligible to apply:

• presence in Spain prior to January 1, 2026;
• proof of at least five months of continuous residence in the country;
• no criminal record;
• payment of a fee of 38.28 euros.

Important change! Applicants may begin working as soon as their case is under review. This rule becomes permanent for all future applications based on ties to the country.

About free housing in Spain for expats — read more at the link.

How many permits have already been issued?

Since April, Madrid has issued approximately 360,000 temporary work permits — that’s about 40% of the total number of applications submitted. Pilar Cancela, the Secretary of State for Migration, noted that the government is capable of processing up to one million applications between April and June, while acknowledging that the number of applications will exceed the number of permits that can be issued within that timeframe.

The Spanish Commission for Refugee Aid (CEAR) predicts that by June 30, the total number of applications will exceed one million. The commission’s director called on the government to combine this one-time measure with the introduction of permanent pathways to legalization.

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Why did Spain opt for mass legalization?

Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez called legalization “an act of justice and a necessity.” The government justifies the decision based on several factors: an aging population, falling unemployment, and labor shortages in the hospitality industry, agriculture, construction, and the caregiving sector.

Another argument is the inclusion of the informal workforce in the tax and social security systems. According to estimates by the Funcas think tank, approximately 840,000 undocumented migrants have been living in Spain for a long time, and a significant portion of them work “off the books.”

Incidentally, Spain has been named the best country in Europe for real estate investment for the first time.

Historical context: Legalization programs have been implemented in Spain before

The current program marks the first comprehensive legalization effort in over two decades. The previous such initiative took place in 2005 under the government of José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero—at that time, 691,655 applications were submitted, the majority of which were approved. Even earlier, in 2000 and 2001, similar campaigns were carried out by the conservative People’s Party government led by José María Aznar. Thus, the practice of mass legalization in Spain has a long history and is not an initiative of just one political party.

Read more about the Digital Nomad Visa in Spain 2026 in this article.

The End of the Golden Visa and a Shift in Priorities

The legalization program was launched a little over a year after Spain discontinued the “Golden Visa” for new investors. Experts in the field of investment migration point out the contrast: the country has effectively chosen to focus on attracting labor rather than foreign capital.

Experts’ opinions on the consequences differ. Some see this as a logical response to a real labor shortage. Others warn of the risk of creating a “vicious cycle” that will encourage further illegal immigration and reduce Spain’s appeal to wealthy foreigners.

Despite the debate, Spain outpaced its European partners in terms of economic growth in 2025, according to the OECD. Applications for legalization continue to be submitted ahead of the June 30, 2026, deadline.

Spain’s immigration laws are changing, and it can be difficult to navigate the new opportunities on your own. On the Visit World portal, you can consult with an immigration lawyer who will help you assess your chances of legalization, choose the best path forward, and prepare the necessary documents.

Book a consultation to get a personalized strategy for immigrating to Spain!

Reminder! We previously reported that Spain is tightening rules for tourists in 2026.

Photo: Magnific

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