An extraordinary regularization in 2026 could benefit around 500,000 foreigners in Spain

In 2026, an extraordinary regularization procedure will be put in place for foreign nationals who already reside in Spain and need to regularize their administrative situation. The measure could benefit around 500,000 people, which means a high volume of applications concentrated in a few months.

The most relevant aspect, for practical purposes, is that the foreseen authorization is not limited to residence: it includes authorization to work, with a direct impact on access to employment and hiring with greater legal certainty.

In this regard, it should be noted that the acceptance of the application for processing will entail a provisional residence permit that authorizes the holder to work.

The reference point is December 31, 2025. In general, those who can prove that they were already in Spain before that date and have stayed here continuously for a minimum period prior to that date (a threshold of five months is envisaged) would be eligible. At the same time, there is a specific provision for people with procedures related to international protection, provided that these were initiated before the cut-off date and the required conditions are met.

As with other immigration procedures, the application will be conditional on the applicant having no criminal record. In addition, it will be essential to submit sufficient documentation to support the applicant’s residence and personal situation in Spain.

The planned authorization is for residence with a work permit, valid throughout the national territory and not limited to a specific sector. The initial validity period is 1 year, after which continuity must be pursued through the ordinary channels of the immigration system.

The application window is expected to open in early April and close on June 30, 2026, so it will be a very concentrated schedule. There are two milestones in the process: admission for processing, with a quick turnaround (around 15 days), and the decision, with a maximum period of three months.

The scheme provides for the possibility of regularizing minor children who are already in Spain in a coordinated manner. For minors, a longer-term authorization is proposed, with an expected validity of 5 years.

At CINC, we can help you with your application If you need to confirm whether your case is eligible, how to prove your permanent residence, what documentation you need to prepare, or how to process the regularization of minors, you can seek advice from the CINC Immigration Service. Make an appointment with us and we will review your situation and guide you through the application process to ensure a successful outcome.