The Spanish government has approved a landmark Immigration Regulation aimed at improving the integration of migrants through reforms in work, education, and family policies. Minister of Inclusion, Elma Saiz, described the new regulation as striking “a balance between extending and protecting the rights of migrants and the legal rigor and attention to Spain’s needs.”
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The regulation seeks to address Spain’s migration challenges, adapt to the country’s aging population, and meet labor market demands while aligning with European Union directives. The reform follows extensive consultations with NGOs, migrant associations, unions, local governments, and other stakeholders.
Key Highlights of the New Regulation
Visas Simplified and Extended
A revamped visa system has been introduced to streamline processes and tackle irregular migration. All initial visa authorizations will now be valid for one year, with renewals extended to four years. Additionally, individuals transitioning from temporary to long-term residence will no longer need to leave Spain to apply.
The “job-seeking” visa, designed for specific occupations and regions, now allows migrants to search for work for up to one year, an increase from the previous three-month limit.
Residency (Arraigo System) Overhauled
Spain remains the only EU country with a specific system, known as arraigo, to regularize undocumented migrants through residency. The regulation introduces five new types of arraigo: social, socio-labor, family, socio-educational, and “second chance” pathways.
The residency requirement has been reduced from three years to two, with greater flexibility in meeting criteria. Permits will allow holders to work immediately, whether as employees or self-employed individuals. Most residence permits will be issued for one year initially, with renewals valid for four years, except family-related permits, which will last five years.
The government estimates that the reforms could regularize approximately 300,000 migrants annually over the next three years.
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Work Permits and Rights Expanded
Migrants will now be able to work immediately without needing separate work authorization. This includes foreign students, who can work up to 30 hours per week while studying. Once their studies are complete, they can transition to a work permit through a fast-track process.
Seasonal workers will benefit from a specific residence and work permit, improved working conditions, and protections against abuse, with clear information about their rights provided in their native languages. Additionally, processes for employers to hire migrants have been simplified, offering greater flexibility and stability.
Boosting Education Opportunities
Foreign students will receive permits valid for the full duration of their studies and are authorized to work part-time. The regulation ensures better protections for students, including stricter requirements for educational institutions, safeguarding their rights, and ensuring quality education.
Enhanced Family Reunification
The reforms also introduce measures to improve family reunification. Residence permits for family members of Spanish citizens now extend eligibility to children up to 26 years old (previously 21), and new categories of family members have been added.
Victims of trafficking, sexual violence, and gender-based violence can now reunite with their children and parents under the expanded definition of reunited family members.
A Comprehensive Vision for Integration
Minister Saiz emphasized that the new regulation focuses on education, employment, and family as the keys to successful migrant integration. By reducing bureaucracy and improving protections, the reforms aim to enhance the rights and opportunities of migrants while addressing Spain’s demographic and labor challenges.
With these reforms, Spain reinforces its commitment to fostering a more inclusive society and setting a standard for migrant integration in Europe.
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