Spain’s immigration law is undergoing significant changes that will take effect in 2025. These updates aim to improve migrant integration, streamline administrative processes, and adapt to current global challenges. Below, we outline the main reforms that will affect immigrants in Spain in the upcoming year.

1. The New Foreigners' Regulation

Starting in May 2025, the new Foreigners’ Regulation will come into force, approved by Royal Decree 1155/2024. This change aims to optimize migration processes and ensure greater legal certainty for both applicants and competent authorities. The main updates include:

1.1. Simplification of Procedures

One of the most significant points is the simplification of administrative procedures. The process for applying for residence and work permits will become more streamlined and less bureaucratic, reducing waiting times. This is particularly important for those looking to regularize their status as quickly as possible.

1.2. New Residency Categories

The new regulation introduces more flexible residency categories, such as the “residency through training.” This will allow migrants who are in Spain for educational purposes to apply for residency in order to continue their studies and facilitate their later integration into the labor market.

2. Family Reunification

In 2025, the conditions for family reunification have been relaxed. The process for migrants with legal residence in Spain to bring their direct family members will become less restrictive, making it easier for families to reunite in Spain.

3. Arraigo: New Opportunities for Migrants

The “arraigo” (roots) program is a legal figure that allows immigrants to regularize their status in Spain after living in the country for a certain period. With the new regulation, people who have lived in Spain for at least six months can apply for social, work, or training-based “arraigo.”

3.1. Social Arraigo

Social arraigo will be one of the most common pathways for regularizing the status of individuals who have family ties in the country or who have demonstrated successful integration into Spanish society. This type of arraigo allows applicants to obtain residence and the possibility to work.

3.2. Work Arraigo

Work-based arraigo will allow migrants who have worked in Spain for at least six months to apply for residence and work permits. This will contribute to job stability and allow immigrants to continue their lives and careers in Spain legally.

4. Protections for Asylum Seekers

People arriving in Spain seeking asylum will also benefit from the new regulations. Starting in 2025, they will receive more support throughout the application process, with a more efficient system for assessing their cases. Additionally, a transitional period will be established during which asylum seekers can apply for “arraigo” status if they meet certain criteria.

5. New Options for Temporary Workers

Another important change in immigration law is the creation of a special permit for temporary workers. This will allow people working in high-demand sectors such as agriculture and hospitality to regularize their employment status and obtain appropriate labor rights.

6. Delegation of Competencies to Catalonia

In a significant shift, Spain has begun delegating immigration-related powers to regional governments. Catalonia, in particular, has received more authority in immigration matters, meaning that local policies will be better suited to meet the specific needs of migrants in the region.

7. The Impact of Growing Migrant Populations on the Labor Market

Migrant populations in Spain continue to grow, and in 2025, Moroccan nationals have become the largest foreign labor force in the country. Many are working in key sectors such as agriculture, construction, and hospitality, making significant contributions to the national economy. This trend highlights the importance of having flexible immigration laws that allow migrants to fully participate in Spanish society.

Conclusion

The reforms to Spain’s immigration laws for 2025 reflect a commitment to improving migrant integration and protection, while also streamlining bureaucratic processes for those seeking to regularize their status. With simplified procedures, strengthened family reunification, and new residency opportunities, Spain remains an attractive destination for those seeking a better life.

However, these reforms also present challenges regarding their implementation and the adaptation of immigration policies to local realities. Without a doubt, 2025 will be a key year in observing how these measures impact Spanish society and the migrants who choose to make this country their home.