Long lines have again been reported at municipal offices in Barcelona and Badalona: migrants start queuing early in the morning to obtain a certificate of social vulnerability — a key document required to participate in the special legalization procedure. Despite the introduction of an appointment system and increased police oversight, demand for these certificates continues to outstrip the capacity of city services.
In Badalona, according to RUSSPAIN, the situation remains tense: about 70 tokens are issued daily for obtaining the certificate, but this is not enough for everyone. Families are forced to keep vigil outside city hall overnight so as not to miss the chance to be included. For example, city resident Yvonne spent the night at the doors of the municipal office with her sister to get a token for their mother, who uses a wheelchair and suffers from multiple sclerosis. According to her, despite having a complete set of documents, the family fears they may not make it before the application deadline of June 30.
Managing the queues
Authorities in Badalona separated the flows: one line is for obtaining the vulnerability certificate, and another — for other municipal services, which moves more quickly. However, even these measures have not eliminated the need for overnight wait times. Many migrants, like Yvonne’s family, come to Spain in stages, reuniting with relatives, and are counting on legalization to gain access to employment and social support.
Measures in Barcelona
In Barcelona, four special centers have been designated for processing documents, including SAIER on Tarragona Street and offices on Sicilia Street and Sant Miquel Square. The municipality has increased the presence of City Guard officers, who inform applicants and maintain order. Only those who are officially registered in the city are served. Police representatives note that they do not keep a tally of visitors but focus on managing queues and providing guidance.
Connecting new organizations
The main burden on municipalities is related specifically to issuing the vulnerability certificate, which can be obtained not only at city halls but also through partner organizations. Currently, Fundación Ibn Battuta is involved in the process, and Cáritas is expected to participate soon. Cáritas clarifies that their assistance will only be available to those already registered in the organization’s database, and the details of their operation are still being finalized. Nevertheless, many families prefer not to wait and continue to apply directly to municipalities so as not to risk delays. According to Yvonne, despite support from Cáritas lawyers, their family decided to prepare all documents in advance.
The situation with queues and limited access to services is reminiscent of other cases when a large influx of applicants led to disruptions in the work of city services. For example, previously in Barcelona, there were already difficulties organizing mass events and sporting matches, which was discussed in detail in the article about the tense battle for the La Liga title — more on the situation in Barcelona.
