Spain updates its migration system: a simplified path to work and life for Ukrainians and Russians

In 2026, Spain completed a large-scale modernization of its migration rules aimed at expanding opportunities for entry, job search, and legal residence for foreigners. The new system is designed not only to simplify procedures but, according to the authorities, to help fill gaps in the labor market, address population aging, and strengthen the country’s economy, writes Deutsche Welle.

The country has encountered demographic and economic challenges: a shortage of workers, especially in certain sectors, an aging population, and the need to maintain the stability of the social services system. According to the authorities, attracting migrants is not a charitable measure but an economic necessity.

What is new for job-seeking migrants

One of the key innovations is the expanded ability to obtain a work visa even before moving to Spain. This means that an applicant can sign an employment contract with a Spanish company while still in their country of residence and use it as the basis for a visa application. Unlike the previous rules, the processing of documents is expected to be significantly faster, with some procedures moved to an online format.

In addition, a job-seeker visa has been introduced, allowing foreigners to stay in Spain for up to 12 months and look for suitable employment locally. This option is of particular interest to Russian citizens, as Spain and Russia have not concluded direct agreements on labor recruitment.

To obtain such authorization, applicants must submit documents confirming education, work experience, sufficient financial means for living, and insurance, as well as a criminal record certificate and proof of no entry ban to EU countries, according to the official website of the European Union.

Flexibility for employers and migrants

The new migration model makes it possible to start working officially immediately after arrival: foreigners can work both as employees and as self-employed individuals, without the need to return to a consulate to apply for a residence permit.

Another important aspect is the combination of employee and self-employed status: a migrant can be officially employed and at the same time run their own business.

Simplified family reunification

The new rules expand family reunification options for those who already live in Spain legally. Now, family migration covers a broader range of cases, such as partner relationships without official registration, provided they are confirmed by long-term cohabitation.

Age limits for children who can move with sponsoring relatives have been increased, and conditions for parents and other dependent family members have been clarified, according to a report by Taylor Wessing.

Regularization for those already in Spain

One of the most high-profile innovations, not limited only to 2026, is the program of mass regularization of migrants who were in Spain without official status. The government approved measures that will allow hundreds of thousands of people to obtain residence permits provided they have lived in the country for at least five months before the end of 2025 and have no criminal record.

Up to half a million people are expected to participate in the program, which will significantly change the situation with “grey” migration in the country, writes The Guardian.

Specifics for Ukrainians

Ukrainian citizens, many of whom received temporary protection in Spain after the outbreak of the armed conflict in 2022, retain their rights to stay and work. At the same time, the new changes create additional incentives for those who want to remain in Spain long term: access to work visas, accelerated procedures, and more flexible conditions for family reunification.

Despite the simplifications, obtaining a visa or residence permit is not automatic. Spanish authorities maintain requirements for documentation, financial solvency, and checks for the absence of entry bans to the Schengen area. Those wishing to bring relatives will have to prove the availability of housing and sufficient funds to support them.

For many Ukrainians and Russians, the new rules provide a real opportunity for legal relocation, job search, and building a life in Spain, provided they meet the requirements and prepare a complete set of documents, notes International Investment.

For Spain, this is a step toward strengthening the economy and social stability: the country is revising its migration policy toward greater flexibility in response to demographic and labor market challenges.