Spain's law to regularise 500,000 undocumented migrants comes into effect

Spain has brought into effect a new law to regularise undocumented foreign nationals, allowing eligible migrants to obtain temporary residence and work permits, with applications open until June 30, 2026, according to a report by Fragomen.

The measure, approved by the Spanish government, grants irregular foreign nationals a one-year work and residence permit, which can be extended. The reform is expected to impact up to 500,000 people living in Spain without legal status.

Eligibility and application rules

Applicants must have arrived in Spain before January 1, 2026, and show an uninterrupted stay of at least five months before applying. They must be over 18 years of age and have a clean criminal record for the last five years.


They must also meet at least one of the criteria: proof of employment or intent to be self-employed, evidence of family ties such as living with children or parents in Spain, or proof of social vulnerability certified by social services.

Applicants are granted provisional permission to live and work in Spain once they submit their application. Successful applicants will receive a one-year permit, with the option to extend it if they show job search efforts or integration steps such as language learning.

Children of undocumented migrants are also covered under relaxed rules. Those born in Spain can apply for dependent residence regardless of birth date, while children born outside Spain can qualify after five months of stay without the usual financial or housing requirements.

The government said the reform aims to address labour shortages and demographic challenges linked to an ageing population, while also supporting the country’s social security system.

Opposition parties have said they will challenge the law in court.