This week in Barcelona, proposals were voiced that could reshape Spain’s approach to migration. The leader of Partido Popular, Alberto Núñez Feijóo, introduced an initiative that could significantly complicate the path to a Spanish passport and social benefits for foreigners.
The main idea is to raise the requirements for Spanish language proficiency and knowledge of the country’s culture for those seeking citizenship. Currently, level A2 and basic knowledge of the Constitution are enough, but in the future, a B2 certificate and a more complex exam on history, laws, and traditions might be required. According to the initiators, citizenship is not a formality but a reward for a genuine desire to become part of society.
The second part of the initiative concerns social welfare. It is proposed that receiving the minimum income should only be possible for those actively seeking work. At present, it is enough to have legally lived in the country for at least a year. The new rules could affect hundreds of thousands of migrants who are not yet employed and do not contribute to the system.
Feijóo believes that the migration situation in Spain has gotten out of control. He points to the rise in illegal entry routes and calls the current system chaotic. In response, Partido Popular suggests a reform linking foreigners’ rights and opportunities to their employment status and integration.
Debate has already begun in society: some see the new measures as a step toward order, while others fear they will lead to marginalization and increased tension. In any case, if the proposals are adopted, Spain will face a significant tightening of its migration policy and new rules for those who dream of living in the country.
