Overview
- After online filing opened Friday, in-person applications started Monday, drawing thousands to more than 370 post offices and 60 social security sites with long lines reported in Madrid, Barcelona and Seville.
- Applicants must prove arrival before December 31, 2025, at least five months’ residence and a clean criminal record to obtain a one-year renewable residence and work permit, with applications accepted through June 30.
- Immigration and municipal unions warned of staff shortages and threatened walkouts, which were called off after a government agreement as counters reported heavy demand and slow processing.
- The conservative People’s Party and far-right Vox said they will challenge the royal decree in court, and a SocioMétrica poll published by El Español found 80.5% of 17–25-year-olds opposed to the plan.
- The government forecasts about 500,000 beneficiaries, while the Funcas think tank estimates roughly 840,000 undocumented residents in Spain, pointing to pressure that could outstrip the program’s target.