The issue of how mass legalization of migrants could impact future elections has unexpectedly taken center stage in Spanish politics. For many people in the country, this prompted reflection: can new residents really shift the balance of power at the polls in the near future? The answer turned out to be less clear-cut than some politicians initially claimed.
The Partido Popular (PP) has officially confirmed: foreigners who obtain residency under the new scheme will not be able to vote in either municipal or national elections in 2027. This statement sharply contrasts with previous accusations against the government of allegedly trying to increase the number of loyal voters through legalization.
Internal party disagreements
A debate has erupted within PP itself. Vice Secretary for Migration Alma Ezcurra publicly admitted that voting rights for new residents will only come into effect in several years’ time. Even under the fastest possible scenario, none of the legalized migrants will be able to vote in 2027. According to her, “this electoral list won’t grow in the upcoming elections, only in those that follow.”
Previously, party leader Alberto Núñez Feijóo accused the government of trying to artificially expand the electorate. He claimed that the legalization initiative was aimed less at combating illegality and more at increasing voter numbers. However, the new clarifications within the party have cast doubt on these accusations.
Legal restrictions
According to current legislation, foreigners who have obtained a residence permit must live in Spain for at least five years before they are eligible to apply to participate in municipal elections. Even then, the right to vote is granted only to citizens of countries with which Spain has special reciprocity agreements.
For people from Latin America, Andorra, the Philippines, Equatorial Guinea, and Sephardic Jews, there is a special rule: they can apply for Spanish citizenship after just two years of residence. Only after receiving their passport can they vote in all elections, including parliamentary ones. But even without bureaucratic delays, this will not happen before 2028.
Political statements
Despite official clarifications, Vice-Secretary Escurra continues to insist that mass legalization is an instrument of political clientelism. She emphasizes that even if new residents wish to support the ruling party, they will not be able to do so in the upcoming elections.
At the same time, PP representatives note that if a migrant’s country of origin has an agreement with Spain, then after several years they will be able to participate in municipal elections. For everyone else, the path to the ballot box lies through acquiring citizenship, which requires time and completing all bureaucratic procedures.
Timing and consequences
The party emphasizes the importance of clearly understanding the timeline. If residence permits are granted this summer, even under the most favorable conditions, new residents will not obtain voting rights by 2027. Only in the next elections, after the required period has passed, will their participation become possible.
Thus, accusations of attempting to immediately alter the electoral balance appear unconvincing. The question of legalization’s impact on future elections remains open, but no changes will occur in the short term.
