Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has described the country’s immigration approach as a successful model for Europe, saying it has strengthened economic growth and increased public revenue.
Speaking at a meeting of Spanish ambassadors in Madrid on Thursday, Sánchez said Spain’s openness to legal immigration has delivered clear benefits, even as other European countries tighten border controls under political pressure.
Spain Promotes Legal Immigration While Policing Borders
Spain has expanded legal pathways for migrants to live and work, while also increasing efforts to control borders and prevent irregular migration.
According to Sánchez, the country’s immigration policy balances:
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Legal migration channels
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Border control measures
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Cooperation with origin countries
He rejected claims that Spain’s policies create a “pull effect” encouraging illegal migration.
“Our model works,” Sánchez said, adding that it could help address demographic and labor shortages across Europe.
Migration Drives Economic Growth
The prime minister highlighted the economic impact of migration in Spain, stating that:
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Migration accounted for 80% of Spain’s economic growth over the past six years
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Migrants contribute around 10% of Spain’s social security revenues
Spain has outperformed many of its European peers since 2021, supported by:
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Strong tourism recovery
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Lower energy costs
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Domestic consumption
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Foreign investment
The government expects Spain’s economy to grow by 2.9% in 2025, more than double the average forecast for the eurozone.
Irregular Migration Declines in 2025
Official figures from Spain’s interior ministry show that irregular migrant arrivals fell by 42.6% in 2025, compared with the previous year.
Total arrivals dropped to 36,775, largely due to fewer crossings along the Atlantic route to the Canary Islands.
Spain has also signed cooperation agreements with several African countries to combat human smuggling networks and manage migration flows more effectively.
A Model for an Ageing Europe
Sánchez said Spain would continue to defend a migration policy that supports economic growth and helps address Europe’s ageing population.
He suggested that Spain’s experience could offer lessons for the wider European Union, particularly as many EU countries face labor shortages and demographic decline.
Key Takeaway
Spain’s government argues that well-managed legal immigration can strengthen economies, reduce irregular migration, and support public finances. According to Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, Spain’s approach shows that immigration and economic stability can go hand in hand.