Extraordinary Regularization of undocumented immigrants: Requirements and latest updates
In January 2026, the Council of Ministers authorized the urgent processing of a royal decree to implement an extraordinary regularization process for foreign nationals already residing in Spain, with the aim of regularizing the status of approximately 500,000 people.
As of today, the legislation has not yet been approved, but after reviewing the draft royal decree, we can outline the requirements for participating in the regularization process, as well as the latest updates.
What are my rights if I apply for regularization?
This authorization will allow you to work for one year in any sector and throughout Spain. After the first year, you will be able to modify your residence permit. In exceptional cases, the authorization may be extended.
What are the latest requirements?
- Prove uninterrupted residence in Spain for at least five months at the time of application.
- Have resided in Spain before January 1, 2026.
- Have no criminal record in your country of origin or in other countries where you have resided in the last five years prior to entering Spain
- Not hold a residence or stay permit in Spain, or be involved in procedures for granting, renewing, or modifying one.
- Not pose a threat or be prohibited from entering Spain.
- Meet one of the following requirements:
a) Have worked during your stay in Spain or demonstrate the intention to work, this is usually demonstrated via a work contract offer.
b) Reside in Spain with your family unit, provided it consists of minor children or adult children with a disability, or first-degree ascendants with whom you live.
c) Be in a vulnerable situation, certified by the competent social assistance agencies. The administration will presume that any foreign person who is in an irregular situation in Spain will be considered in a vulnerable situation.
What documentation do I need to provide?
The essential documents are the following:
- Valid passport.
- Historical empadronamiento to demonstrate length of residence along with other proofs, such as medical reports, appointments, rental agreements, utility bills (electricity, water, internet), or bank statements in Spain, etc.
- Criminal record certificate(s).
- Other documentation may be required in each specific case.
What are the deadlines to apply?
The application period is scheduled to begin in April 2026 and end on June 30, 2026.
The processing time will be three months, with administrative silence being considered a negative reply. From the moment the application is submitted, the applicant will be provisionally authorized to reside and work until a decision is made.
Nieto Jones can help you regularize your immigration status
If you would like to book a consultation or have our firm submit the application on your behalf and manage the entire process, please contact us at contact@nietojones.com. We would be happy to review your case.
