MADRID, July 1. /Dunyo IA/.   More than one million undocumented migrants in Spain have sought applications to obtain legal status under a scheme that has defied a wider European crackdown on irregular immigration, reports Dunyo IA correspondent, citing with “Euronews” television channel.

It was initially anticipated that approximately 500,000 individuals, predominantly from Latin American countries, would be eligible to benefit from the program. The initiative was launched in April of the current year and concluded on June 30^th.

Prime Minister of Spain, Pedro Sánchez, stated in the capital that the number of submitted applications demonstrates the vital significance of granting legal status and integration opportunities to migrants.

He emphasized that migrants play a vital role in sustaining the country's economy, social security system and pension scheme amidst an aging population and demographic shifts within rural regions.

Additionally he stated that without immigration, Spain’s GDP in 2050 would be 19 percent lower. And what does this signify from a business perspective? It means, for instance, that 90,000 bars would have to close, 50,000 primary and secondary schools would be left without students, and approximately 220,000 farms would vanish.

Concurrently, the submission of an application does not guarantee the granting of a residence and work permit. Applicants must confirm the absence of a criminal record and prove continuous stay in the country for at least five months prior to January 1.

Spanish authorities plan to review the documentation within a period of three months and render decisions on the issuance of work and residence permits, which shall be valid exclusively within the territory of the country.

It should be noted that Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has been a staunch and consistent advocate for the necessity of migration. Addressing the parliament in October 2024, he stated that the country requires migration to sustain its economic growth and maintain the welfare state.

It is declared that throughout history, migration has been one of the most critical factors in the development of nations, whereas hatred and xenophobia have been and remain the greatest destroyers of nations. The key is to manage it properly.

Photo by “Reuters”