Spain Begins Mass Amnesty Program For Up To 800,000 Undocumented Migrants
Spain has launched a mass legalization program for up to 800,000 undocumented migrants. The move, announced this week, opens a window for people without papers to apply for legal residence and work rights. PBS News reported that thousands rushed to apply as the program began.
Officials estimate the program could cover as many as 800,000 people, a large-scale effort to reduce long-term irregular residency. The immediate rush highlights strong demand and will test Spain's ability to process applications fairly and quickly. Details on eligibility rules, deadlines and processing times remain crucial to outcomes and to how the measure is discussed in public debate.
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đ Key Facts
- Program grants a one-year, renewable residence permit to undocumented migrants with five months' residence and no criminal record
- Application window runs until the end of June 2026, with in-person filings at over 370 post offices and around 60 social security offices
- Government cites roughly 500,000 potential beneficiaries, while think tank Funcas estimates about 840,000 people could be affected
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April 20, 2026