Almost 1.2 million undocumented migrants have sought legal status in Spain under a massive regularisation scheme, final government figures show.
Secretary of State for Migration Pilar Cancela confirmed that 1,174,978 applications were submitted between mid-April and the closing window on 30 June. More than 600,000 cases are already under review.
Latin America accounted for 67% of the submissions, led by Colombia at 25.9% of total applicants. Other significant origin countries include Morocco at 13.3%, Venezuela at 11.8%, and Peru at 8.8%. African nationalities represented 22.9% overall.
Demographic data reveals a predominantly young applicant pool, with eight out of ten under the age of 45. Males accounted for 57% of applications versus 43% for females.
The initiative, pushed by Socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, directly contrasts with a broader European crackdown on irregular immigration. Spanish business leaders have backed the policy, citing critical workforce needs in sectors like construction. However, conservative and far-right opposition parties have condemned the move, claiming it will incentivize further irregular entry.
To qualify, applicants must demonstrate a clean criminal record and prove they resided in Spain for at least five consecutive months before January 1. Authorities have three months to process the paperwork and issue work and residence permits valid exclusively in Spain.