Spain legalizes 500,000 migrants amid EU border tightening measures
February 2, 2026 • Al Jazeera
Spain to Grant Legal Residency Status to Undocumented Migrants
The Spanish government has announced a new decree that will provide a legal pathway for residency for approximately 500,000 migrants already living in the country. The move is expected to grant these individuals formal recognition and protection under Spanish law.
According to officials, the decision was made after years of grassroots campaigning by migrant rights groups. The policy change comes as a contrast to other European Union countries that have implemented stricter immigration policies.
The decree will apply to undocumented migrants currently residing in Spain, providing them with access to essential services and social benefits. The exact details of the new law are yet to be finalized, but officials confirm that it will offer a formal route for these individuals to regularize their status.
The move is seen as a significant development in the country’s approach to immigration policy. It is unclear what factors contributed to this decision, but officials have stated that the goal is to provide greater stability and security for migrant communities in Spain.
Source: Al Jazeera