Spain is embarking on a significant immigration policy shift by initiating a process to legalize the status of over 500,000 illegal immigrants. This move stands in stark contrast to the current U.S. approach under President Donald Trump, who has focused on detaining and deporting illegal immigrants.
Legalization Process in Spain
The Spanish government’s initiative, announced in January, allows immigrants to apply for a work and residence permit valid for one year, with the requirement to demonstrate employment to maintain the permit. For minors, the regularization extends for five years. The deadline for applications is June 30, and the process is expected to take three months post-submission.
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez described the initiative as an act of ‘normalization,’ emphasizing that these immigrants are already integrated into Spanish society. The program has seen a massive response, with over 549,596 applications submitted within a month of opening.
Personal Stories of Hope
Nariola Romo, a Colombian immigrant, and her family are among those hoping to benefit. After fleeing threats in Colombia, they settled in Barcelona. Romo, a teacher by profession, has worked various jobs in Spain and feels grateful for the opportunity to secure a stable future for her children.
Similarly, Diadji Nguirane from Senegal, who has been in Spain for two years, looks forward to obtaining legal status to work and support his family. His partner, Maimouna Gueye, has been the primary breadwinner, working in a hospital while Nguirane takes care of their children.
Requirements and Opposition
Applicants must prove their presence in Spain before January 1, 2026, and provide a clean criminal record. Despite the potential benefits, the measure faces opposition from right-wing parties, who argue it could strain public services and manipulate demographics.
However, supporters like Verónica Jaramillo, a lawyer at the Bayt al-Thaqafa Foundation, argue that regularization can benefit Spain’s aging population by adding contributors to the Social Security system.
For families like the Romos and Nguiranes, the hope is that this policy will provide the stability and opportunity they seek in Spain.
Original reporting: NBC10 Boston — read the source article.
