Spain sees over 1.1 million migrants apply for regularization

The Spanish government received 1,174,978 applications for the extraordinary regularization scheme launched in April, more than double the original estimate of 500,000. About 608,000 applications (52%) are already being processed, and 11,000 final residence permits have been issued.

Applicants are mainly from Central and South America (67%); the largest nationality is Colombian at 26%, followed by Moroccan (13.4%), Venezuelan (11.7%) and Peruvian (8.8%). The highest regional totals are Catalonia (257,000), Madrid (202,000), the Comunitat Valenciana (167,000) and Andalusia (161,000).

While the process grants a one‑year renewable temporary residence and work permit, it has already generated 159,097 new Social Security registrations, including roughly 39,000 in hospitality, 20,000 in commerce and over 18,000 in construction. By early July, 160,000 of the applicants had secured formal employment.