Tag: Spain legal status

Spain Legalizes 500,000 Migrants Undocumented in Major Workforce Reform The Government Grants Legal Status Spain approved an important policy that will give legal status for around 500,000 migrants who are undocumented. This decision allows people who qualify to work and live legally in Spain. Pedro Sanchez, Prime Minister of Spain, said that the decision reflects both fairness and an economic necessity. He said that migrants already play a large role in the daily lives of Spanians and make a significant contribution to the society. The Government aims at integrating them in the formal workplace and strengthening public services. The New Plan: What it Offers Migrants can request a residence permit that is renewable for one year. The applicant must prove that they've lived in Spain at least for five months. The applicant must have no criminal records. The application period begins on April 16 and ends at the end June. The size of the population without documentation is expected to lead to a large number of applications. Economic and Social Reasons Behind the Policy Spain's government claims that it needs to hire more people due to the ageing of its population. The government also argues that immigrants help to support economic growth, and they fill important job gaps. Pedro Sanchez stated that migrants played a significant role in the development of modern Spain, and they should be acknowledged for this. He pointed out, too, that Spanish migrants have historically left the country for similar reasons. Funcas estimates that there are 840,000 undocumented immigrants in Spain. The majority are thought to be from Latin American countries. The Public's Reaction to Political Debate Opposition People Party is strongly opposed to the plan. The People Party claims that the plan could lead to more illegal migration, and the government underestimated the number of people who may apply. Leaders of the opposition have said that the total number of applicants could be as high as one million and described this move in an unacceptable manner. The Catholic Church, on the other hand has supported this decision and called it an humanitarian response. Vocalizations of Migrants Some migrants welcomed this announcement. According to a Bolivian graphic artist living in Spain, legal status will allow for better employment opportunities and stability. The policy, he believes, will also benefit the Spanish Economy through taxation and formal employment. History of Spanish Migration Policy In the past, Spain introduced legalization programmes of a similar nature. In 2005, more than a half million people were granted residency by a former government.
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Spain Legalizes 500,000 Migrants Undocumented in Major Workforce Reform

The Government Grants Legal Status Spain approved an important policy that will…

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