Spain Emerges as EU’s Third-Largest Issuer of Schengen Visas to Russians
Post-DANA Regularisation Hits Roadblocks for Thousands of Migrants in Spain
Poll Shows 60 % of Spaniards Say the Country Hosts ‘Too Many’ Foreigners
Latest News
OECD report shows 1.8 % drop in new permanent migrants to Spain in 2024
Spain admitted 368,000 new permanent immigrants in 2024—1.8 % fewer than the previous year—according to the OECD’s Migration Outlook 2025. Despite the dip, inflows remain far above pre-pandemic levels and Spain is still the OECD’s fifth-largest destination. The data come as Spain rolls out a modernised Immigration Regulation and prepares further regularisation measures, signalling continued opportunities but also tighter competition for housing and integration resources.
Canary Islands press for larger share of €100 m fund for unaccompanied migrant minors
Spain will disburse €100 m to fund reception places for unaccompanied migrant minors, but the Canary Islands and other regions want longer-term, larger financing. With more than 4,500 minors already in Canary facilities, regional leaders warn that one-off grants are inadequate and ask for extra personnel to speed transfers inland.
€20 ETIAS fee hike rings alarm bells for Gran Canaria tourism lobby
A local Gran Canaria outlet broke the news that the ETIAS fee will rise from €7 to €20, sparking concern among hotels reliant on British and Nordic visitors. Industry estimates suggest even a small fall in arrivals could cost tens of millions in revenue when the system goes live in 2026. Corporate travel teams should budget for the higher fee and ensure non-EU assignees secure authorisation in advance.
Formentera taps treasury surplus to cover €3.2 m bill for migrant-minor care
Formentera has diverted €3.2 m of treasury surplus to pay outstanding bills for the care of unaccompanied migrant children. The move reflects mounting fiscal pressure on small island councils coping with maritime arrivals and signals potential future levies on residents and businesses.
EU ends multi-entry visas for Russians, adds extra checks at Spanish consulates
Brussels has abolished multi-entry Schengen visas for Russian citizens, meaning Russians—including potential business travellers to Spain—must apply for a fresh permit every time they visit. Spanish consulates will introduce longer interviews, and companies are advised to allow more lead time for travel planning.