Spain urged to extend immigrant regularisation deadline

Spanish social organisations have asked the government to lengthen the extraordinary regularisation process for undocumented migrants, which is set to close on 30 June. They argue that the current timeline is "far too short to ensure proper processing" for vulnerable groups such as the homeless, domestic workers, unaccompanied minors, the elderly, people with disabilities, low‑income earners, and those facing language barriers.

The NGOs say the launch suffered from insufficient information, confusing paperwork and technical glitches – for example, some offices request the municipal register (padrón) even though it is not required, and online appointment systems are malfunctioning. They also note that applicants from countries like Nigeria or Sri Lanka struggle to obtain criminal‑record certificates, risking exclusion despite meeting the criteria. Extending the deadline, the groups contend, would guarantee equity, quality and adequate social support for those eligible.

The request comes as the regularisation scheme, aimed at integrating undocumented residents, nears its statutory end, prompting a call for a prorogation to avoid leaving qualified individuals out of the process.