Spain Opens Immigration to Labor Shortage, Aging... "Legalize 300,000 Illegal Immigrants a Year"

Spain's Socialist government has decided to lower the border threshold for illegal immigrants to address labor shortages and aging populations.

The Spanish government says it plans to reduce the length of time illegal immigrants have to live in Spain to apply for a formal residence card from the current three years to two years.

It also decided to simplify procedures such as family reunions and temporary work permits.

Immigration Minister Elma Saiss told a news conference that the contribution of migrant workers is indispensable for sustainable economic growth and social development at a time when labor shortages and demographic changes are becoming increasingly apparent.

He then explained that the goal is to strengthen and expand access channels for immigration legalization so that they can have rights and obligations and lead a full life as citizens.

The Spanish government expects the reform to legalize 300,000 illegal immigrants a year over the next three years.