Spain’s new policy offers hope to undocumented migrants

Spain has approved a major plan to grant legal status to around 500,000 undocumented migrants, a move expected to benefit thousands of Bangladeshis living there without proper documentation.

Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez described the decision as both an “act of justice” and an economic necessity, saying the initiative recognizes migrants who are already contributing to Spanish society, reports BBC.

Under the plan, eligible migrants will receive a renewable one-year residence permit, allowing them to work legally and access better living conditions. Applicants must prove they have lived in Spain for at least five months and have no criminal record. The application window will remain open from April 16 to the end of June.

Bangladeshi migrants, many of whom are engaged in sectors like construction, agriculture and small businesses, are expected to be among the beneficiaries of this scheme. The move could help them transition from informal jobs to stable employment, ensuring legal protection and improved livelihoods.

The Spanish government says the initiative will strengthen the workforce in a country facing an ageing population and labor shortages. It also reflects Spain’s own history of emigration, when many Spaniards moved abroad in search of better opportunities.

However, the opposition people's party has strongly criticized the plan, arguing that it could encourage more illegal migration and has pledged to oppose it.

Despite criticism, support has come from various quarters, including the Catholic Church, which views the measure as a humanitarian step.

According to estimates by the Funcas think-tank, Spain currently hosts around 840,000 undocumented migrants, many from Latin America, along with a significant number from South Asian countries like Bangladesh.

If implemented successfully, the policy could mark a turning point for undocumented Bangladeshis in Spain, offering them legal recognition, job security and a pathway to a more stable future.