The deadline for the extraordinary migrant regularization in Spain concludes this Tuesday, having received over one million applications. This figure doubles the Government's initial forecasts and makes the process the largest ever implemented in the country, surpassing the previous record set in 2005.
This measure is being implemented amidst significant changes in European migration policy, with the entry into force of the new European Pact on Migration and Asylum (PEMA). This pact tightens entry requirements to the European Union and limits the issuance of residence permits for humanitarian reasons, introducing a 'triage' system for evaluating migrants.
The new EU legislative framework also includes a Return Regulation aimed at expediting expulsions, contemplating the creation of detention centers in third countries. Spain has stated its refusal to utilize these centers in its migration policy.
The Government's expectations, which estimated around half a million applications, have been widely surpassed. By mid-June, the number of applicants already exceeded 900,000, with 360,000 applications admitted for processing, implying the provisional granting of work and residence permits. The resolution period is three months.
This process surpasses the six previous regularization efforts carried out in Spain since 1985. The first, in 1986, received 43,815 applications. The 2005 process, promoted by the Government of José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero, was until now the largest with 691,655 applications.
The high volume of applications is attributed to the absence of similar processes for over 20 years, increased mobility, and minimal access requirements. Unlike previous processes that required proof of employment, this regularization opens the door to residence permits for individuals in vulnerable situations.
The initiative, which generated considerable political debate, was approved in Congress with a broad majority following a pressure campaign by social groups. However, the parliamentary process was hindered by disagreements over the conditions of the process and the electoral weight of immigration.
The State Council requested modifications to the initial decree, and subsequently, several associations, along with Vox and the regions of Madrid and Murcia, filed appeals with the Supreme Court citing the impact on public services. The Supreme Court rejected the provisional suspension of the measure.
