Spain Embraces Migration Reform to Boost Economy and Job Market

In a recent statement to El Desconcierto, Spain’s Minister of Inclusion, Social Security, and Migration highlighted significant reforms aimed at aligning immigration policies with the country’s economic needs. One of the key announcements was that international students in Spain will now be allowed to work up to 30 hours per week, even in jobs unrelated to their field of study. Additionally, a new fast-track procedure will be implemented, enabling students to transition directly into the workforce after graduation without the need to return to their home country.

The Minister described Spain’s approach to migration as a "beacon of light" in contrast to reactionary narratives seen elsewhere in Europe. She emphasized that migration plays a crucial role in strengthening Spain's economy, especially as the country confronts ongoing demographic and labor challenges.

Spain currently hosts over three million foreign nationals without social security coverage, who collectively fill one in four jobs across the economy. Moreover, around 500,000 self-employed international workers are contributing significantly to high-value sectors, demonstrating a growing reliance on migrant labor in sustaining Spain’s economic momentum.

According to the Ministry of Labour and Social Economy, the country witnessed a substantial reduction in unemployment in 2024. Compared to the start of the year, the number of unemployed individuals declined by 146,738, representing a 5.42% decrease. By December 2024, the total number of registered unemployed stood at 2,560,718, while social security registrations increased by 42,700, reaching a total of 21,344,487 working individuals.

Spain’s Economy Minister, Carlos Cuerpo, reiterated confidence in the country's economic trajectory, stating that Spain is expected to remain a driving force of economic growth in Europe through 2025 and 2026.