Spain’s parliament has agreed to consider legislation that could grant residency and work permits to hundreds of thousands of foreigners living in Spain without proper documentation. The proposal, brought forward by a citizen initiative supported by over 700,000 signatures and 900 organizations, was accepted by a vote of 310-33 in the Congress of Deputies in Madrid. The bill would provide legal status to immigrants who arrived in Spain before November 1, 2021, including many from Latin America and Africa, allowing them to live and work legally, pay taxes, access healthcare and education, and contribute to social security.
Between 390,000 to 470,000 foreigners currently live irregularly in Spain, primarily working in low-paid essential jobs such as fruit picking, caretaking, and delivery driving. Without legal protections, these immigrants are often vulnerable to exploitation and abuse. The proposed legislation aims to give them visibility and equal rights, ending their precarious situation and improving their quality of life. This move is seen as a step towards addressing the challenges faced by undocumented migrants in Spain and ensuring their integration into society.
The bill will now proceed through the lower house of parliament for further debate and potential amendments before reaching its final version. The proposal has garnered broad support from migrant rights groups, Catholic associations, and other organizations advocating for the rights of undocumented immigrants. By granting legal status to these individuals, the legislation aims to regularize their presence in the country and provide them with the necessary legal protections and access to essential services.
In addition to addressing the situation of undocumented migrants, Spain’s government has also announced plans to abolish “golden visas,” which allow wealthy individuals from outside the European Union to obtain residency permits by investing over half a million euros in real estate. This move aligns with efforts to prioritize the rights and needs of undocumented migrants over economic incentives for wealthy investors. The decision to prioritize the regularization of undocumented immigrants reflects a commitment to social justice and inclusion in Spanish society.
The introduction of this legislation comes at a time when many European countries are grappling with issues related to immigration, integration, and social cohesion. By providing a pathway to legal status for undocumented immigrants and ending the exploitation they often face in the underground economy, Spain is taking a proactive step towards promoting social justice and equality. The bill’s focus on granting equal rights and protections to all residents, regardless of their immigration status, highlights the country’s commitment to upholding human rights and fostering a more inclusive and equitable society.
As the bill moves forward in the legislative process, it will be subject to further scrutiny and debate, with potential modifications to ensure its effectiveness and alignment with existing laws and policies. The support for this legislation from a broad spectrum of civil society organizations and political parties indicates a growing recognition of the importance of regularizing the status of undocumented immigrants and addressing the challenges they face. Ultimately, the proposed legislation represents a significant step towards promoting social inclusion, economic integration, and respect for human rights in Spain.
