Non-attached MEP Alvise Pérez has asked the European Commission to evaluate whether Spain's extraordinary regularisation of undocumented migrants is compatible with EU migration and asylum rules, warning that the measure rewards illegal entry and undermines return policies across the Schengen area.
The written question, submitted on 10 June 2026, contrasts Spain's approach with the Nordic model of stricter citizenship requirements, as seen in Sweden. Pérez argues that Spain's regularisation creates a pull factor for further irregular arrivals and shifts costs onto housing, healthcare, education, and social welfare systems.
first, whether the Commission has assessed the regularisation's impact on Schengen and returns, and its consistency with the European Pact on Migration and Asylum; second, whether it will request data from Spain on costs, labour market integration, access to benefits, and beneficiaries' backgrounds; and third, whether such mass regularisation is compatible with a credible EU policy on illegal migration.
The question signals a cleavage between national sovereignty over migration management and EU-level coherence, with Pérez advocating for stricter enforcement of return rules and border controls. The Commission is expected to reply within approximately six weeks, and its answer will indicate whether it views Spain's measure as a legitimate national discretion or a challenge to the common framework.
Spanish undocumented migrants could gain legal status and access to services, but the regularisation may increase pressure on public services and housing. EU member states with stricter policies may see Spain's move as undermining collective deterrence. The Commission faces a test of its enforcement role under the new Pact. Spanish taxpayers bear the immediate costs of integration and public service strain.