Spain’s decision to approve sweeping amnesty for undocumented migrants is igniting backlash across Europe as the country moves sharply away from tougher enforcement trends seen elsewhere. The Socialist-led government announced plans to legalize up to 500,000 unauthorized migrants, even as the United States reports negative net migration under President Trump.
Under a royal decree approved Tuesday, migrants who entered Spain before the end of 2025, lived in the country for at least five months, and have no criminal record may receive one-year residency and work permits, with possible pathways to citizenship. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez’s government framed the move as an economic necessity tied to Spain’s aging workforce.
Migration Minister Elma Saiz defended the amnesty decision at a news conference, stating the government “will not look the other way” and is “dignifying and recognizing people who are already in our country.”
The policy has drawn fierce criticism from conservative parties and the populist Vox movement. Vox leader Santiago Abascal warned the measure “harms all Spaniards,” adding, “They are not worried about the consequences of Sánchez’s criminal policies. They are worried that Vox will gain more strength.”
Security and migration analysts also raised alarms. Henry Jackson Society executive director Alan Mendoza told Fox News Digital that “Spain’s decision appears calculated to increase the lure of Europe as a destination for illegal migrants in general,” warning neighboring countries may “be paying the price for Spanish largesse.”
Supporters argue the move reflects governance realities. Political scientist Ricard Zapata-Barrero said, “This is not a symbolic gesture,” calling the amnesty a structural response to years of irregular migration. European leaders are now watching closely as Spain charts a controversial new course.
