EXTRAORDINARY REGULARIZATION OF IMMIGRANTS IN SPAIN

CLEAR AND UP-TO-DATE INFORMATION

The Spanish government has begun the process of an extraordinary regularization of foreigners already living in the country , a measure aimed at providing legal security, promoting social integration and reducing the underground economy.

On this page we explain what this regulation is, who it is aimed at and how it works , in a clear and accessible way for the general public.

What is extraordinary regularization in Spain?

Extraordinary regularization is an exceptional process through which certain foreign people who are already in Spain can access a residence permit with a work permit .

This authorization will allow:

• To reside legally in Spain

• Work from day one, in any sector and throughout the territory

• Initiate an integration process within the current legal framework

The initial permit will last for one year , after which the ordinary procedures provided for in the Immigration Regulations must be followed.

Who is this measure aimed at?

Foreign nationals who meet the following general requirements may be eligible for this process:

• Having lived in Spain continuously for at least five months before December 31, 2025

• To be able to prove that stay through valid documentation

• Not having a criminal record and not posing a threat to public order

Applicants for international protection may also be included , provided that the application was submitted before December 31, 2025, even if it is pending or was refused.

The measure applies without distinction of nationality , provided that the established requirements are met.

Key dates in the process

• Expected start of applications: April 2026

• Deadline: June 30, 2026

One important aspect is that, once the application has been accepted for processing , the person can legally begin working while the case is being resolved.

Why is this regularization being promoted?

According to the Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security and Migration, this initiative responds to an existing social and economic reality in Spain.

Its main objectives include:

• Guarantee rights and legal stability

• Reduce the underground economy

• Protecting people from labor exploitation

• To offer legal certainty to companies

The regularization is part of the Integration and Intercultural Coexistence Plan , based on the principles of human rights, social cohesion and coexistence.

Protection of the family unit

The process includes the simultaneous regularization of minor children who are in Spain with the applicant.

In these cases, minors may obtain residence permits for up to five years , promoting family stability and long-term integration.

A process with precedents in Spain

Spain has resorted to regularization processes on other occasions when the social situation has required it. This initiative also continues a proposal backed by more than 700,000 citizen signatures and a broad parliamentary majority.

The Government defends the regulatory route as the fastest and most reliable way to address this situation within the Spanish and European legal framework.