Spain 2025, the ambitious immigration reform and an opportunity for 900,000 undocumented immigrants

When I heard about the new reform in Spain aimed at regularizing up to 900,000 undocumented immigrants over three years, I thought: “Finally, a country that dares to make humane and pragmatic decisions!” This initiative, which could change the lives of hundreds of thousands of people, shows that Spain is ready to take on economic challenges while offering a real opportunity for social integration. So, what does this mean in concrete terms? And why is this reform so important? I’ll explain it all to you.

New immigration reform May 2025: The main changes

The immigration reform in Spain, which will come into force in May 2025, represents a major turning point in the country's migration management. It aims to regularize up to 900,000 undocumented migrants over three years and to simplify the procedures for migrants already present or wishing to settle in Spain. Here are the main changes and their implications:

1. Simplification of administrative procedures

One of the main objectives of this reform is to make immigration procedures more accessible. From now on, all initial visas will have a duration of one year, renewable for four years, which reduces the risk of unexpected irregularity situations. In addition, it will no longer be necessary to leave Spain to change from a temporary permit to a long-term permit, which considerably simplifies the procedures.

2. Reduction of time limits for regularization

The time required to justify rooting (or arraigo) is reduced from three to two years. This allows migrants who have been in an irregular situation for a shorter period of time to apply for a residence permit more quickly. This measure aims to accelerate their integration into Spanish society and meet the needs of the labour market.

3. New opportunities for rejected asylum seekers

Migrants whose asylum applications have been rejected will now be able to apply for a temporary permit if they prove continuous residence in Spain for at least six months. This gives them a chance to regularise their situation and access the job market.

4. Improvements for foreign students

Study permits will now cover the entire duration of studies, eliminating the need for annual renewals. Students will be able to work up to 30 hours per week during their studies and quickly apply for a work permit after graduation, facilitating their transition into the Spanish job market.

5. Relaxation of family reunification

Family reunification becomes more flexible: children up to 26 years old (instead of 21) can be included in applications, and unmarried couples in a stable relationship are also taken into account. This allows families to stay together while integrating more easily into Spanish society.

6. Increased protection for seasonal workers

Visit seasonal workers will benefit from better legal protections and simplified hiring procedures. This aims to improve their working conditions and reduce abuses in sectors such as agriculture.

A response to economic needs

For me, this reform is above all a response to a major economic problem. Spain, like many European countries, is facing an aging population and a shortage of labor in several sectors. We are talking here about essential professions such as agriculture, construction, or even care for the elderly. These sectors need a constant workforce to function, and clearly, local resources are no longer sufficient.

By regularizing up to 300,000 people a year, the Spanish government hopes to integrate these workers into the legal system. What does that mean? Well, these people will finally be able to work with official contracts, pay their taxes and contribute to social security. Basically, it’s a win-win: migrants gain stability and social rights, and the Spanish economy benefits from a much-needed workforce.

Simplify the process for better integration

Another aspect that I like about this reform is the simplification of administrative procedures. Frankly, when you think about what undocumented immigrants have to go through to regularize their situation, it's discouraging. Between the paperwork to provide, the endless delays and the sometimes vague criteria, many give up before even trying. Here, Spain wants to make things simpler and more accessible.

For example, the minimum period of residence to apply for regularization is reduced from three years to two years. This may seem like a detail, but for someone living in precarious conditions, every year counts. In addition, it is no longer necessary to leave the country to change status or renew a permit, which avoids a lot of stress and unnecessary complications. These adjustments show that the government wants to encourage the rapid and effective integration of migrants into Spanish society.

What I also like is that the reform proposes several regularization pathways adapted to the different situations of migrants: work, studies, family reunification or even social criteria. It allows everyone to find a solution based on their personal background. And then, by facilitating access to work permits and authorizing students to work up to 30 hours per week, we give people the means to integrate economically while contributing to the country.

Spain is sending a clear message: it wants migrants to be able to participate fully in the social and economic life of the country without being held back by administrative obstacles. For me, this is an intelligent and humane approach that shows that pragmatism and solidarity can be combined.

A human dimension above all

What particularly touches me about this reform is its human side. We often talk about migrants as a "problem" to be managed or a political "challenge". But here, Spain seems to recognize that behind each undocumented person there is a personal story. Many of these people have been living in the country for years. They already work in the shadows or have children who attend school in Spain. Basically, they are already part of the social fabric.

With this reform, the government is offering them a chance to escape illegality and have a dignified life. It is also a strong message to the rest of the world: we can combine humanity and pragmatism in managing migration.

There is no shortage of criticism

Of course, not everyone agrees with this reform. Some fear that it will encourage more irregular arrivals or put too much pressure on public infrastructure such as schools or hospitals. Others believe that these mass regularizations could create social or political tensions.

Personally, I think we need to look beyond these criticisms. Previous regularizations in Spain have shown that they have positive effects on the economy without causing a significant increase in migration flows. So yes, there will certainly be challenges, but I believe that the long-term benefits will far outweigh the disadvantages.

A model for other countries?

This reform could also serve as an example for other European countries that are still hesitant to adopt more inclusive migration policies. Spain shows that it is possible to welcome migrants with dignity while meeting the country's economic needs. For me, this is a great proof that we can find a balance between humanity and pragmatism.