The Council of Ministers has approved this Tuesday the Royal Decree that regulates the process of extraordinary administrative regularization for migrant persons residing in national territory. The regulation, which will be published in the Official State Gazette (BOE) this Wednesday, April 15, establishes a legal framework for thousands of irregular individuals and applicants for international protection to access a legal residence and work authorization.
According to the provisions by the Executive, the application period will begin this Thursday April 16 in a telematic format. For in-person assistance, the appointment system will be activated the same Thursday, although offices will start attending interested individuals from Monday April 20. The process will remain open until June 30.
Access Requirements and Validity of the Permit
The program is exclusively aimed at individuals who can prove their presence in Spain before January 1, 2026 and who have remained in the country uninterrupted for at least five months prior to the application. Additionally, beneficiaries must meet the following criteria:
- Safety: Lack of criminal records and not representing a threat to public order or public health.
- Employment or social ties: Prove having previously worked (self-employed or employed), having a family unit with minors or dependents, or justify a situation of vulnerability confirmed by social services or collaborating entities.
The obtained authorization will have an initial validity of one year and will enable its holder to work in any economic sector and geographical area of the country. Once this period expires, beneficiaries must transition to the regular categories established in the Immigration Regulation.
Operational Infrastructure and Processing Channels
To ensure the efficiency of the process, the Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security, and Migration has established a network of service points that includes Immigration offices, Social Security offices, and Post Office branches in provincial capitals and municipalities with over 50,000 inhabitants.
- Telematic channel: Available 24/7 with an electronic certificate.
- In-person channel: Requires prior appointment (via web or telephone 060). The Social Security and Immigration offices will have special afternoon hours (4:00 PM to 7:00 PM).
Impact on the Labor Market and Protection of Minors
Minister Elma Saiz emphasized that the notification of the commencement of the procedure will automatically grant a Social Security number and authorization to work, which will allow for the immediate integration of these individuals into the formal economy.
Regarding child protection, the Royal Decree establishes a differentiated measure for minors, who will receive a residence authorization with an extended duration of five years. The process also collaborates with the General Council of the Legal Profession and the new Foreigners Collaborators Registry (RECEX), formed by unions and NGOs that will provide free advice to applicants.
