But, as an undocumented migrant, the 50-year-old former graphic designer has been unable to secure regular employment and life has been tough for him in Madrid. “It’s an enormous opportunity for a lot of people.”The plan has created a stir in Spain’s political arena and underlines the country’s status as an outlier in Europe on the immigration issue. Most of the country’s undocumented migrants are believed to be Latin American, with Colombia, Peru and Honduras providing the largest numbers. The Sánchez government’s relatively welcoming policy contrasts with the clampdown on immigration most of Spain’s neighbours have been implementing in recent years. “Concerns about immigration in Spain have increased recently,” says Paco Camas, head of public opinion in Spain for polling firm Ipsos.

Source: The Irish Times February 23, 2026 15:00 UTC