Speaking in the Madrid Assembly on 9 April 2026, regional president Isabel Díaz Ayuso said her government will file a constitutional appeal against Real Decreto 180/2026, the measure that opens a six-month window for undocumented migrants to obtain legal residence and restores universal healthcare access. Ayuso argued the decree lacks funding provisions and encourages what she labelled “health tourism”. The regularisation programme—endorsed by Spain’s left-leaning government in March—could benefit up to half a million people, many already employed informally in hospitality and elder care. For employers, legalisation promises access to a wider, lawfully authorised labour pool but also higher compliance costs: regularised workers must be added to social security rolls. Ayuso’s challenge adds political uncertainty. If Madrid’s appeal is admitted by Spain’s Constitutional Court, parts of the decree could be suspended pending a ruling, complicating HR planning for companies looking to convert irregular workers. Immigration lawyers advise employers to prepare documentation but wait for final judicial clarity before incurring fees. Health administrators counter that denying basic care is both unethical and more expensive in the long run, as untreated conditions lead to costly emergency interventions. The Ministry of Inclusion insists regional budgets will be compensated through an adjustment in the 2027 funding formula.
Source: Europa Press
