Regularisation of third country nationals in Spain
On Tuesday, MEPs and the Commission will discuss Spain’s plan to regularise undocumented migrants and its implications for the Schengen area and EU migration rules.
Under the proposal, applicants will have to prove at least five months of residency in the country before 31 December 2025 and have no criminal record. People who have applied for international protection will also be eligible. Successful applicants would be granted residence rights for an initial period of one year and a work permit allowing them to work in Spain.
Background
As stated by the Commission, decisions and policies to regularise third-country nationals is the responsibility of national authorities, though member states need to ensure that such decisions do not put at risk the integrity of the Schengen area and consider potential migratory and security implications.
Procedure: Commission statement, without resolution
Debate: Tuesday 10 February