The Spanish Council of Ministers has approved the Royal Decree amending the Regulation implementing Organic Law 4/2000, concerning the rights and freedoms of foreign nationals in Spain and their social integration.
This reform, described by the Government as structural in nature and of social urgency, establishes a new legal framework which will enable approximately 500,000 individuals currently in an irregular administrative situation in Spain to obtain residence and work authorisations.
Among the principal developments are the simplification of administrative procedures, the expansion of integration-based regularisation pathways, and increased efficiency in administrative processes, with the aim of integrating thousands of migrants into the legal and labour systems.
(a) As from 16 April 2026, applications may be submitted electronically, and appointments may be requested for in-person processing, thereby marking the effective commencement of the administrative procedure.
(b) On 20 April 2026, the phase for in-person submission of applications will open, at which point the system will become fully operational.
(c) The process is of an exceptional and time-limited nature, with a deadline for submission of applications set for 30 June 2026, requiring applicants to act diligently in order to benefit from this extraordinary regularisation measure.
The new Regulation also seeks to respond to the needs of the Spanish labour market by facilitating the hiring of foreign workers in sectors experiencing labour shortages. Furthermore, administrative procedures are streamlined, and efforts are made to reduce the informal economy, thereby promoting the effective integration of migrants into the legal system.
Overall, the reform aims to establish a more agile, inclusive and efficient migration system, supporting both the social integration of foreign nationals and the economic needs of the country.
Notwithstanding the opportunities created by this new regulatory framework, a thorough and well-prepared documentary process remains essential. For individuals who have resided in Portugal, obtaining a Portuguese criminal record certificate in advance is a key requirement for the successful submission of applications.
Within the context of regularisation procedures or applications for Spanish nationality, it is essential to note that all foreign nationals who have previously resided in Portugal must provide such certificate to evidence their conduct during their stay in that country. The absence of this document may result in requests for additional information, significant delays, or even the rejection of the application.
The Corporate and Commercial Department of Belzuz Abogados, S.L.P. provides legal advice in this area and can manage the application process for criminal record certificates in Portugal, as well as coordinate cross-border actions between Spain and Portugal, ensuring efficiency, legal certainty and full compliance with the applicable legal requirements.
Belzuz Abogados, S.L.P. – Portuguese Branch is an international law firm, with its registered office in Madrid and offices in Lisbon and Oporto, with extensive experience in immigration law.