Spain’s Immigration Landscape in 2026: Navigating New Rules and Opportunities
Spain is facing a demographic crossroads. With one of the lowest birth rates in Europe and a rapidly aging population, the country is increasingly reliant on immigration to fuel its economic growth – a growth currently outpacing all other EU nations. But this reliance isn’t without its complexities. As we head into 2026, significant changes are on the horizon for anyone planning to move to, or already living in, Spain, from evolving visa requirements to a potential shift in the nation’s overall immigration policy.
Visa and Residency Requirements: What’s Changing?
For non-EU citizens, securing the right visa or residency permit is the first hurdle. While good news for those pursuing Spain’s Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV), the financial requirements are expected to remain stable at €28,800 for the first year, linked to the annual IPREM. However, the Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) is facing an increase. Tied to Spain’s minimum wage – projected to rise to €1,446.66 per month – the DNV earnings threshold will likely jump to €2,893.32 monthly, a notable increase from the current €2,763.
The Grandchildren’s Law and a Wave of New Citizens
The deadline for applications under Spain’s “grandchildren’s law” – allowing descendants of Spaniards exiled during the Franco era to reclaim citizenship – closed in October 2025. Expect a significant influx of new Spanish nationals in 2026, particularly from Argentina, Brazil, Cuba, Mexico, and Venezuela, with approximately one million applications originating from Argentina alone. This influx will undoubtedly impact housing markets and social services in certain regions.
Brexit’s Lingering Impact: TIE Residency Cards
UK nationals who established residency in Spain before Brexit continue to navigate the transition to the new system. The process of exchanging temporary Withdrawal Agreement (WA) TIE cards for permanent ones is ongoing, but plagued by appointment availability issues in popular expat destinations. Furthermore, over 187,000 UK nationals still rely on pre-Brexit green EU certificates, despite repeated calls to upgrade to the more secure biometric TIE card. Procrastination on this upgrade could lead to complications down the line.
New Regulations and Emerging Trends
Beyond specific visa changes, several broader trends are shaping Spain’s immigration landscape.
ETIAS: A New Entry Requirement for Tourists
The ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) visa waiver is expected to launch towards the end of 2026. While primarily aimed at tourists, it will impact those planning to enter Spain as tourists before applying for longer-term visas, such as the Digital Nomad Visa. The €20 fee and online application process will add an extra step to the initial planning stages.
Increased Costs for Citizenship
Aspiring Spanish citizens should budget for a slight increase in exam fees. The DELE A2 Spanish Nationality exam registration will rise from €134 to €138 in 2026. While a modest increase, it’s a factor to consider when planning the citizenship application process.
A Potential Policy Shift: EU Influence and Domestic Politics
Spain has historically taken a more welcoming approach to immigration than many other EU nations. However, pressure from the EU to tighten border controls and address irregular migration is mounting. The recent endorsement of “return hubs” for failed asylum seekers signals a potential shift in policy. Adding to this uncertainty, early general elections in 2026 could see a change in government, with a conservative PP victory potentially leading to more restrictive immigration measures. This makes proactive planning and understanding of current regulations even more crucial.
The interplay between Spain’s demographic needs, EU policy, and domestic politics will define the immigration landscape in 2026 and beyond. Staying informed and prepared is paramount for anyone considering a move to Spain or navigating the complexities of residency and citizenship.
What are your biggest concerns regarding these changes to Spain’s immigration policies? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
