By 2027, Spain will extend job visas and provide residency to 900,000 migrants

Beginning in May 2025, Spain plans to increase the duration of its job seeker visa from the current three months to twelve months. Indian job seekers and other foreign nationals would have extra time to find work and apply for permanent residency thanks to this move. Additionally, on November 19, 2024, Spanish Migration Minister Elma Saiz declared that 300,000 unauthorized migrants would be regularized each year until 2027. Over the course of three years, up to 900,000 people could receive work and residency permits under this plan. Spain, which needs about 250,000 people to support its economy, is making this move in an effort to alleviate its labor shortfall. Approximately 70,000 Indians, including non-resident Indians, presently live in Spain, according to India's Ministry of Home Affairs.

Longer stay to ease job search

Job searchers will have a whole year to find jobs thanks to the increased visa period. They can apply for a work permit and eventually lawful residency after landing a job. It is anticipated that the move will help Spain's workforce development initiatives while giving illegal workers who are currently residing in the nation legal status. International students will have less employment restrictions as part of Spain's reforms. Soon, people on study visas might be able to work up to 30 hours a week, giving them more financial freedom. The working-age population of Spain increased in 2022 as a result of net migration surpassing the total numbers of the preceding ten years, according to credit rating firm Fitch Ratings. "The rise in the working-age population will moderate over 2024-2028 but still outpace peers, supporting growth prospects," Fitch said in its report.

Cost of living in Spain

The cost of living in Spain varies by city and lifestyle, so those considering a transfer should be aware of this. The European Student Landscape 2024: Beyond Beds and Benches report from University Living offers information on living costs in various Spanish cities. Barcelona: Average monthly expenses are €1,165 (approximately Rs 1 lakh), with accommodation costing 38.6% (€450), utilities 48.5% (€565), transportation 6.4% (€75), and miscellaneous expenses 6.4% (€75). Other cities: Monthly costs average €875 (approximately Rs 78,000), with accommodation at 34.3% (€300), utilities 50.3% (€440), transportation 6.9% (€60), and miscellaneous expenses 8.6% (€75).

Housing options for migrants and students

Private apartments:

Madrid: €700–€1,200 Barcelona: €800–€1,300

Shared housing:

Madrid: €400–€700 Barcelona: €450–€750

Single rooms:

Madrid and Barcelona: €300–€500

Studios:

Madrid: €800–€1,500 Barcelona: €900–€1,600 Although they are more expensive, private apartments and studios provide independence. Single rooms and shared apartments offer more flexible and reasonably priced possibilities.