In Spain, the in-person procedure for submitting applications for migrant legalization has officially started. Since Monday, long queues have been reported at offices across the country, as many hurry to submit documents or apply for the new program. According to authorities, in just the first few hours of the online system’s operation, more than 13,000 electronic requests were registered.
At a press conference following the Council of Ministers meeting, Elma Saiz, Minister for Inclusion, Social Protection and Migration and official government spokesperson, shared the first results of the program’s launch. The new measure was approved last week and is already in effect: first in a remote format, and now in-person as well. Authorities note that the demand for legalization is high, and in several cities office staff are working under increased load.
Queues and procedure details
In major cities, including Madrid and Barcelona, queues have been forming outside immigration service offices since early morning. People are waiting for the chance to submit documents or receive advice on the new rules. As previously reported by russpain.com, difficulties have already arisen in the capital regarding appointment bookings and overload at specific locations—for more on the situation in Madrid, see the article about problems with queues for legalization certificates.
Alongside the migration issue, other important decisions were discussed at the government meeting. Minister of Housing and Urban Agenda Isabel Rodríguez presented the approved State Housing Plan for 2026–2030. A total of 7 billion euros has been allocated for these purposes: the funds will go toward expanding the social housing stock, renovating buildings, and supporting young people in purchasing or renting property.
Changes for teachers and schools
Another agenda item was a draft law on new working conditions for teachers. Minister of Education Milagros Tolón stated that the document provides for smaller class sizes and a reduced teaching load for educators. According to the ministry, these measures are designed to improve the quality of education and enhance working conditions in schools.
Thus, the Council of Ministers meeting resulted in several decisions impacting migrants, young homebuyers, and education professionals. Authorities emphasize that all changes have already come into effect or will be implemented in the coming years.
