The extraordinary regularization process for foreign nationals in Spain has commenced, allowing thousands of individuals to begin the procedures to legalize their situation. While the online process was activated last Thursday, in-person applications can now be submitted starting this Monday.
Official estimates suggest that around half a million people could benefit from this measure nationwide. In Andalucía, the figure could be around 60,000 people, while in the Province of Córdoba, given the demographic characteristics, it is estimated that between 2,000 and 3,000 individuals could benefit, according to sources working with the migrant population. This is an estimate, as many of these individuals are not listed in official records.
To complete the procedures, interested parties must make an appointment and go to the Social Security offices on Córdoba de Veracruz Street, 4, or to Correos branches at Cruz Conde, 15; Los Omeyas, 2; Del Nogal, 23 and avenida de Libia, 53, with hours from 8:30 to 17:30. At the offices on Puente Genil Street, 1, hours will be from 8:30 to 14:30. The Government Subdelegation has clarified that Immigration offices will not handle this process.
Since the announcement of this regularization, the work of non-governmental organizations in Córdoba has intensified. Organizations such as Accem have seen a significant increase in requests for advice. A spokesperson for Accem has indicated that they are organizing to meet the increased demand for support with the start of the in-person process.
“"In terms of rights, it is a matter of justice. It is a measure that not only benefits the migrant but also society as a whole."
Similarly, a delegate from APDHA in Córdoba has expressed agreement with the process, highlighting that it aligns social reality with legal reality, as these individuals are already part of society and contribute to it. He emphasized the importance of debunking misinformation about the process, clarifying that the requirements are clear and limited, and that it does not create a pull factor for new arrivals.
“"The requirements are very clear and limited, so this is not a lottery or an uncontrolled process. It has no pull effect; people who arrive after this process will not be able to benefit from it."
The main requirements for regularization include proving residency in Spain before January 1, 2026, continuous residency for a minimum of five months at the time of application, and a clean criminal record. For applicants for International Protection, it is necessary to have submitted the application before January 1, 2026.
The Red Cross is also offering assistance, with an informative website and by answering questions at their offices. They have noted that many people request a vulnerability certificate, for which they are not authorized, but the template is available on the specific web portal for regularization enabled by the Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security and Migration.
