In an interview broadcast on 11 December, Spanish Economy Minister Carlos Cuerpo argued that migration is essential for sustaining growth in Spain and across the EU, countering what he called ‘false narratives’ amplified on social media. Spain is forecast to grow 2.9 % in 2025—almost triple the combined pace of Germany, France and Italy—thanks in part to a steady inflow of workers who fill skill gaps and shore up the pension system.
Cuerpo acknowledged that the politics of migration have become toxic in some member states but urged policymakers to ground the debate in data. He pointed to Spain’s successful regularisation of agricultural and care-sector workers during the pandemic as evidence that well-managed migration delivers fiscal benefits without undermining social cohesion.
![Migration ‘An Economic Opportunity’, Says Spain’s Economy Minister Amid EU Debate]()
His remarks came days before EU interior ministers are due to finalise the annual ‘solidarity pool’, which redistributes asylum seekers and funds to frontline states such as Spain, Italy, Greece and Cyprus. Current proposals fall short of Commission targets, prompting Madrid to lobby for greater burden-sharing.
Companies and travellers who need to navigate Spain’s changing immigration landscape can simplify the process with VisaHQ. The online platform offers real-time guidance on visa requirements, prepares and submits applications, and keeps employers updated on regulatory shifts—helping ensure compliance and faster approvals. Full details can be found at https://www.visahq.com/spain/.
For multinational employers the message is clear: Spain remains open to talent. The government is expected to expand its digital-nomad and high-skilled permit categories in 2026, while also tightening enforcement against irregular work. HR leaders should monitor forthcoming legislation that could streamline intra-company transfer routes and grant faster access to the labour market for degree-holding migrants.
Cuerpo acknowledged that the politics of migration have become toxic in some member states but urged policymakers to ground the debate in data. He pointed to Spain’s successful regularisation of agricultural and care-sector workers during the pandemic as evidence that well-managed migration delivers fiscal benefits without undermining social cohesion.
His remarks came days before EU interior ministers are due to finalise the annual ‘solidarity pool’, which redistributes asylum seekers and funds to frontline states such as Spain, Italy, Greece and Cyprus. Current proposals fall short of Commission targets, prompting Madrid to lobby for greater burden-sharing.
Companies and travellers who need to navigate Spain’s changing immigration landscape can simplify the process with VisaHQ. The online platform offers real-time guidance on visa requirements, prepares and submits applications, and keeps employers updated on regulatory shifts—helping ensure compliance and faster approvals. Full details can be found at https://www.visahq.com/spain/.
For multinational employers the message is clear: Spain remains open to talent. The government is expected to expand its digital-nomad and high-skilled permit categories in 2026, while also tightening enforcement against irregular work. HR leaders should monitor forthcoming legislation that could streamline intra-company transfer routes and grant faster access to the labour market for degree-holding migrants.
