Approximately 8,000 individuals have flocked to the Moroccan consulate in Almería since last Saturday, seeking to gather the necessary documentation for a mass regularization initiative spearheaded by the government of Pedro Sánchez. This surge, occurring just before the approval of a crucial decree, has resulted in long lines and significant waiting times outside the diplomatic office as people rush to secure their certificates and paperwork.
The highest influx of visitors was observed over the weekend, but the crowd has persisted well into Monday and Tuesday around the consulate, located on the Mediterranean Avenue in Almería's capital, where thousands have been waiting since early morning for their turn.
This overwhelming pressure on the consulate coincides with the Cabinet's approval of a royal decree that will facilitate this extraordinary regularization process, allowing for the legal status of over half a million individuals currently living in Spain without proper documentation. The decree is expected to be published in the Official State Bulletin this Wednesday, which has triggered a flurry of activity among those eager to compile the necessary documents, including proof of no criminal record from their country of origin.
According to Elma Saiz, the Minister of Inclusion, Social Security, and Migration, applications will be accepted online starting Thursday, April 16, and in person from April 20. The application window will remain open until June 30. This process targets foreigners who were in Spain before January 1, 2026, can demonstrate at least five months of continuous residence, and have no criminal history.
In response to the repeated scenes of long lines, José María Martín, the Deputy Government Representative in Almería, urged calm and advised the public to wait for the official publication of the decree to understand all the details. He emphasized that most administrative procedures can be completed online, warning that immediate visits to consulates or administrative offices are not necessary at this time.
Martín also announced that in-person application points will be established, likely in Almería's capital, with prior appointments required. He encouraged individuals to consult official channels to avoid misinformation regarding the process. Meanwhile, unofficial estimates suggest that between 30,000 and 40,000 residents in Almería could potentially have their administrative status regularized.
As reported by okdiario.com.
