Spain's Migration Policy as a State Policy: Integration and Regularisation - News and Statistics

May 1, 2026

Spain’s migration strategy, described by Migration Minister Elma Saiz as almost akin to a state policy, centers on integration and acknowledging the positive role of migrants. Saiz made these remarks in an interview with Euronews. Under Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, Spain is pursuing a path distinct from the stricter approaches seen across much of Europe.

Saiz noted that Spain, once a country of emigrants, now sees itself as a land of opportunity, viewing migration as vital to its economic and social progress. A cornerstone of this policy is a regularisation process approved earlier this year, which could grant legal status to over 500,000 undocumented individuals already residing in the country. To qualify, these individuals must have lived in Spain for at least five months or have sought asylum by the end of 2025. Saiz argued that these people are already present in society but currently lack both rights and obligations.

Addressing public skepticism about the strain on public services, Saiz stressed the importance of strengthening those services to match the population they serve. She highlighted that the initiative enjoys strong public support and originated from a citizen-led legislative proposal backed by more than 700,000 signatures, along with support from hundreds of civil society groups, employers, and institutions.

The European Commission and several member states have expressed reservations about the plan, particularly regarding potential effects within the Schengen Area, fearing some individuals might attempt to move to other EU countries without permission. Saiz insisted the measure fully respects EU rules, including the Schengen system, and that regularisation falls under national sovereignty since it concerns people already living and working in Spain. The minister clarified that those who receive a one-year work permit can only reside and work in Spain, not freely move to other EU states.

The decision was made without consulting European partners, drawing criticism. Many in Brussels worry it conflicts with the EU’s current trend of tightening migration rules. Saiz described Spain’s approach as an alternative model based on regular, orderly, and safe migration. She characterized Spain’s policy as an international reference point, noting a significant decrease in irregular arrivals in recent years, especially along routes like the Canary Islands, suggesting a humanitarian approach can coexist with effective management.

Saiz argued that migration policy should be guided by evidence and long-term thinking, not political pressure. She pointed out that over 40% of jobs created since Spain’s labour reform have been taken by foreign workers, who are increasingly moving into higher-skilled sectors. She also referenced progress at the EU level, including the Migration and Asylum Pact agreed during Spain’s presidency of the Council of the EU.

Beyond migration, Saiz framed Spain’s position as part of a broader effort to promote multilateralism and adherence to international law, consistent with the values underpinning the European Union. Regarding defence, Spain has rejected demands from some NATO allies to increase military spending to 5% of GDP, maintaining that its current commitments are appropriate. This has led to differences with US President Donald Trump, who has criticized Spain’s stance. However, Saiz emphasized that Spain remains a reliable partner with strong ties to the United States.

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