Spain’s extraordinary regularization process has concluded with a total of 1,174,978 applications submitted between April 16 and June 30, 2026, becoming one of the largest administrative regularization initiatives undertaken in the country. Of the total applications received, 609,737 cases have already been processed, while the remaining files continue to be reviewed within the established deadlines.
Most applications, representing 79.6% of the total, relate to residence authorizations based on extraordinary social integration grounds, while the remaining 20.4% correspond to authorizations for applicants seeking international protection. The high level of participation was supported by the involvement of legal professionals, social organizations and specialized entities that provided guidance and assistance throughout the process.
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Spain’s Extraordinary Regularization Process Ends with More Than 1.17 Million Applications and Strengthens the Labour Market
Digital processing played a central role, with 83.2% of applications submitted online. The remaining 16.8% were processed in person through a network of 448 authorized offices across Spain, which handled nearly 200,000 applications. These offices will remain available for the correction and completion of submitted applications until the end of September.
The demographic profile of applicants highlights a significant contribution to the labour market, as 87% of participants are of working age. The largest age group is made up of individuals aged between 25 and 34, followed by those aged 35 to 44 and 16 to 24. Nearly six out of ten applicants are under the age of 34, reinforcing the country’s long-term workforce potential.
By nationality, Colombia accounts for the highest number of applications, followed by Morocco, Venezuela, Peru and Honduras. Regionally, Catalonia registered the highest number of applications, followed by the Community of Madrid, the Valencian Community and Andalusia, demonstrating the broad territorial reach of the regularization process.
Social Security data also reflects the economic impact of the initiative, with 159,097 additional registered workers linked to the regularization process by the end of June. Most newly registered workers joined the General Social Security Scheme, with permanent contracts representing the predominant employment model. Hospitality, trade, administrative services and construction are the sectors that recorded the largest number of new registrations.
In parallel, an employability and socio-educational survey has been launched to assess the educational, social and professional profile of participants. Initial findings reveal high levels of Spanish language proficiency and a significant proportion of applicants with post-secondary and university education, providing valuable information for the development of future integration and employment policies.
