Spain’s plan to legalise 600,000 migrants sparks clash at EU summit

Spain's decision to legalize thousands of undocumented immigrants has sparked a heated debate at the European Union summit in Brussels on Friday, October 16. Denmark, Italy and Poland challenged Spain's approach, arguing that it could encourage further illegal migration across the continent. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez was forced to defend his country's immigration policy against criticism from other EU leaders.

The issue centers around Spain's unique regularization program, estimated to benefit around 600,000 migrants currently residing in the country. While some EU governments fear that Spain's move will push more people to cross borders illegally, Spain maintains that it is helping people become legal workers, contributing to the country's workforce and tax system.

Political tensions have been high, but there has been no decision to halt Spain's regularization program. The European Commission has not declared the policy illegal. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen called for an investigation into the effects of Spain's policy, accusing the country of adopting a different approach from other European nations.

Italy and Poland also sought to alter the summit's official conclusions to include more stringent language on national immigration policies. Despite the disagreements, Spain's program was formally approved in April 2026, and applications were accepted between April 16 and June 30. Successful applicants can obtain a first-year residence and work permit, allowing them to work legally in Spain. However, it does not automatically grant the right to live or work in other EU countries.