The Spanish government, led by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, has announced a major decision to legalize more than half a million undocumented migrants living in the country. The move follows a historic agreement that will be formalized through a royal decree expected on Tuesday, January 27. It marks Spain’s largest regularization initiative for migrants in the past two decades.

Under the new policy, individuals residing in Spain before December 31, 2025, will be eligible to apply for legal status, provided they can prove continuous residence for at least five months. Successful applicants will receive a one-year temporary residence permit, renewable thereafter. The permit will grant them the right to work legally and access Spain’s healthcare and social security systems.

Human rights organizations have welcomed the government’s decision. Officials say integrating a large number of people into the formal economy will help curb labor exploitation and boost national economic growth, with expectations of a significant rise in GDP.