Key facts
- Spain's recent migrant amnesty drive received 1.17 million applications.
- Over 609,000 applicants have been granted temporary work permits.
- These permits allow migrants to work in the formal economy while their residency applications are processed.
- Around 160,000 individuals with temporary permits had secured formal employment by June 30.
- The amnesty grants a one-year renewable residence permit to eligible undocumented migrants.
- The government is partnering with businesses to match migrants with jobs in sectors like construction and tourism.
Spain's recent migrant amnesty program has seen an overwhelming response, with 1.17 million applications received, significantly surpassing the government's initial estimate of 500,000. As a result, over 609,000 migrants have been issued temporary work permits, allowing them to legally participate in the formal economy while their residency applications are under review.
This initiative, open from April 16 to June 30, grants a one-year renewable residence permit to undocumented migrants who have resided in Spain for at least five months before the end of 2025 and have no criminal record. Officials reported that by June 30, approximately 160,000 of those with temporary permits had already secured formal employment.
Further details revealed that 11,000 individuals have so far received their one-year residence permits. The majority of applicants, around 81%, are under 45 years old, and 57% are men, with most applications originating from Latin American countries. The Spanish government is actively collaborating with businesses in sectors such as construction, tourism, transport, and care to help match migrants with available jobs.