Today, Spain’s Council of Ministers launched the seventh mass regularization of foreigners in the country’s democratic history. Following an agreement between PSOE and Podemos, a plan has been approved that will allow around 500,000 people to come out of the shadows. The key difference from previous processes is that having an employment contract is not required to obtain documents, which had been a major stumbling block in negotiations.
Who can apply? The process is open to those who have been in Spain for at least five months before December 31, 2025, as well as to asylum seekers who submitted their applications before that date. A mandatory requirement is the absence of a criminal record (administrative detentions for lack of documents do not count) and no threat to public order.
How to prove residence? The government has significantly simplified the evidence requirements. Any public or private documents will be accepted: municipal registration (padrón), medical records, money transfer receipts, transport tickets, rental contracts, or documents proving receipt of social assistance.
Deadlines and protection: Applications are expected to open in early April 2026. Importantly, once an application is accepted for processing, any deportation procedures or expulsion orders are automatically suspended. The applicant receives a temporary permit granting the right to work and access healthcare.
In case of a positive decision, the migrant will receive a one-year residence permit, which can later be renewed under the standard regulations (Reglamento de extranjería). The entire review process should not exceed three months.
Who can apply? The process is open to those who have been in Spain for at least five months before December 31, 2025, as well as to asylum seekers who submitted their applications before that date. A mandatory requirement is the absence of a criminal record (administrative detentions for lack of documents do not count) and no threat to public order.
How to prove residence? The government has significantly simplified the evidence requirements. Any public or private documents will be accepted: municipal registration (padrón), medical records, money transfer receipts, transport tickets, rental contracts, or documents proving receipt of social assistance.
Deadlines and protection: Applications are expected to open in early April 2026. Importantly, once an application is accepted for processing, any deportation procedures or expulsion orders are automatically suspended. The applicant receives a temporary permit granting the right to work and access healthcare.
In case of a positive decision, the migrant will receive a one-year residence permit, which can later be renewed under the standard regulations (Reglamento de extranjería). The entire review process should not exceed three months.
