Foreigner Regularization 2026 in Spain: everything you need to know

The Government has approved the decree for the extraordinary regularization of foreigners in Spain by 2026. Here’s a summary of the key points:

• The main method will be online, although it can also be submitted in person at Social Security, Post Offices and Foreigners’ Offices, with a mandatory prior appointment through Mercurio.
• The process will be open until June 30, 2026, a non-extendable date.
• The processing will be handled by UTEX, not the Immigration Offices.
• Specific offices will be available in all provinces, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM.
• It is estimated that 500,000 – 1,000,000 people could benefit from the process.
• The submission of applications could begin in mid-April 2026, following the approval of the final text.

• Application for international protection before January 1, 2026.
• Be of legal age and provide a complete copy of your passport.
• Stay in Spain for at least 5 months without leaving the country.
• Not having a criminal record and not posing a threat to public order or security.
• A background check certificate from the country of origin is not required if it has already been submitted or if you have been in Spain for 5 years.
• Submit a sworn statement of no criminal record if desired.
• Pay the corresponding fee.
• Not having a valid residence or stay permit.

• Arrive in Spain before January 1, 2026.
• Be of legal age and provide a copy of your passport.
• Stay in Spain for 5 continuous months.
• Meet clean background requirements and not pose a threat to public safety or health.
• Being in one of these situations:
  • Have worked at least 90 days or have a job offer.
  • Living with the family unit in Spain (minor children, elderly children with disabilities or parents).
  • Being in a vulnerable situation, proving irregular stay.

All applications must be submitted by June 30, 2026.

• Once the application is accepted, provisional residence and work permit will be granted until the case is resolved.
• If granted, a one-year residence permit will be issued, renewable as appropriate.

Applicants with pending residency procedures could obtain a favorable decision almost directly, except in cases of criminal records or legal problems.

All information is based on a draft, so changes may occur before official approval.

At CINC, we assist you in starting your immigration procedures or applying for Spanish nationality, guiding you through the entire process safely and effectively. You can send your inquiry here.