A new regulation that transforms lives
On May 20, Spain marked a before and after in its immigration policy with the entry into force of a foreign regulation designed to facilitate the regularization of immigrants. With the aim of regularizing almost one million people in a period of three years, the Spanish government has emphasized Catalonia, where it is expected that 200,000 immigrants will obtain their legal status before the autonomous elections of 2027.
Simplification and flexibility: key to regularization
The reform seeks to simplify bureaucratic procedures, reducing the requirements for obtaining legal residence. Now, the minimum time of residence needed has been reduced from three to two years, and the rooting figure has been diversified into five categories, allowing wider access to legalization.
Advances in family reunification
One of the most significant novelties is the improvement in the family regrouping process, which now includes children up to 26 years old and non -registered couples. This measure seeks to foster integration and provide stability to immigrant families, reflecting a clear intention to facilitate their adaptation.
Catalonia: Key for the Electoral Strategy of Sanchez
Catalonia, with a large population of immigrants in irregular situation, becomes a focus of attention for the Government. Recent data indicate that by 2024, 290,000 applications were managed in the region, and in 2025 it has begun with 54,000 resolved files. With an increase of 30% to 40% of the resources allocated to the foreign offices, the aim is to meet the increasing demand before the election.
Immigration as a sustainability pillar
The Government emphasizes that immigration is essential for the economic and social sustainability of the country. The aging population and the need for foreign work are factors that strengthen this policy, with the intention of improving the system of public pensions and services.
Political implications of regularization
In addition to the social dimension, the regularization of immigrants has a clear political motivation. It seeks to consolidate the support of the immigrant community, which has traditionally been favorable to the Socialist Party. The next election in Catalonia could see an influential vote in this demographic sector, which is considered crucial for the government’s strategy.
Strategies to mitigate risks
In the face of the rise of parties with an anti -immigration agenda, such as alliance Catalan and Vox, the Government has begun a process to transfer migratory powers in Catalonia. This play not only relieves pressure on the governing partner together, but also seeks to guarantee political support during negotiations.
In addition, the exclusion of Catalonia from the distribution of ‘Meas’ allows the PSOE to present this decision as a success in front of its electorate, while together it can be claimed before its voters. These strategic maneuvers make clear the preparation of the parties for the 2027 election, with a fixed look in the future.