The introduction of language requirements for migrants when renewing their residence permits could be a game changer for many residents of Catalonia. The new initiative, proposed by the regional government, aims to strengthen the role of the Catalan language in society and improve the integration of newcomers. According to ElPais, the changes will affect a significant proportion of migrants living in the region and may impact their ability to remain in the country.
The Catalan authorities have put forward a proposal to amend the current Foreigners Regulation. Under the draft, migrants seeking to renew their residence permit for the first time will be required to show proof of enrolment in Catalan language courses. They will have one year to meet this requirement, although it is not yet clear how language proficiency will be verified. Authorities emphasize that the goal of these changes is not just compliance with the law, but genuine involvement of new residents in the region’s linguistic and cultural environment.
Initiative details
According to estimates, the new measure may affect about half a million migrants, around 150,000 of whom live directly in Catalonia. The question of how exactly language proficiency will be confirmed remains open. The authorities promise to organize courses for everyone interested, but there is already a shortage of places, especially at the beginner level. This creates additional difficulties for those just starting to learn the language and seeking to legalize their stay.
At the first session for implementing the National Pact for the Language, representatives of the Catalan government presented interim results: over a third of the two hundred planned measures to develop the linguistic environment have already been carried out, while the rest are being implemented. Authorities believe that new requirements will help strengthen the position of the Catalan language and make it an integral part of life for all residents of the region, regardless of their origins.
Difficulties accessing courses
One of the main challenges migrants face is the limited number of places in free Catalan language courses. This problem is especially acute for those just starting to learn the language and needing basic knowledge to obtain a work permit or extend their residence. Despite authorities’ assurances that more classes will be offered, many worry they won’t be able to sign up for the necessary courses in time.
The Catalan authorities assure that they will work to increase the number of courses and improve their accessibility. However, it remains unclear how quickly the issue of insufficient places can be resolved and how this will affect the integration process of migrants. According to ElPais, discussions on the details are ongoing and final decisions have yet to be made.
Context and consequences
Introducing language requirements for migrants is not a new practice in Europe. In recent years, similar measures have been discussed or already implemented in several countries where local languages play a significant role in public life. In Spain, such initiatives receive both support and criticism: some consider them essential for successful integration, while others fear they could complicate life for newcomers and create additional barriers.
In recent years, the status of the Catalan language and its role in education, employment, and daily life has repeatedly sparked debate in Catalonia. Regional authorities aim to make it a mandatory element of integration for all new residents. Similar steps have already been taken in other autonomous regions of Spain where local languages also hold official status. The issue of balancing the support of cultural identity with ensuring equal opportunities for migrants remains a topic of public discussion.
