The Spanish government has announced a significant expansion in access to free healthcare, which will now include undocumented migrants. According to Elma Saiz, the migration minister from the ruling Socialist Party (PSOE), undocumented immigrants who arrived in Spain before December 31, 2025, have resided in the country for at least five months, and have no criminal record will be eligible for health services. This policy, outlined in a royal decree, allows the minority government to bypass parliament and implement changes swiftly.

Additionally, the new healthcare access will extend to Spanish citizens returning to live in Spain and those temporarily present from abroad, as well as their accompanying family members. This development suggests a progressive shift in Spain’s approach to immigration amid a broader European trend towards stricter immigration policies, challenging the prevailing narrative in many EU countries that are tightening access to health and social services.

In January, the Spanish government also revealed plans to offer residency and work permits to approximately 500,000 undocumented migrants, indicating a commitment to more inclusive policies. This latest healthcare measure reflects a significant step towards addressing the needs of vulnerable populations, despite potential backlash from more conservative factions in Europe that advocate for tougher immigration controls.