Critics point to the lack of clear information regarding the extraordinary regularization process

The new extraordinary regularization program has far exceeded all expectations. More than one million applications have been submitted, compared to the 500,000 the Ministry had anticipated. This backlog has real consequences: some companies are terminating workers’ contracts because the 90-day waiting period has expired and no official response has been received.

The Extremadura Migrant Women’s Movement is speaking out against this situation; the group met on Tuesday with the Government Delegate for the region, José Luis Quintana. They have asked him to ensure that immigration offices are located closer to where people live and that the deadlines and procedures are clearly explained, because a lot of misinformation is circulating. And this isn’t just a simple misunderstanding: it’s leading companies to either not hire workers or to ask employees to resign from their contracts.

What’s going on? The Ministry has acknowledged that processing times are being extended due to the high volume of work, but many companies are unaware of this or refuse to believe it. Tania Irias, the group’s coordinator, explains that there are also problems activating the digital certificate or registering as a job seeker with Sexpe, because the document is not recognized as a valid residence permit. “The Ministry itself has said it—the delay is due to the volume of paperwork,” she emphasizes.

The organization, which was founded in 2019 and has been based in Mérida since 2023, does not work exclusively with undocumented women. It also advises asylum seekers—more than 300,000 nationwide—who were already here legally. “The figure of one million doesn’t all refer to undocumented individuals; you have to subtract those who already had a path to legal status,” Irias clarifies. They have supported more than a thousand people through this process since it began in April.

If you’re waiting for a decision on your regularization, be patient. The official deadline may be extended. That doesn’t mean your case has been dismissed. And if a company asks you to withdraw your application because “the deadline has passed,” don’t agree without verifying the facts first. You have the right to have your contract maintained until the Ministry issues a decision. But use good judgment: keep copies of everything, have your submission receipt on hand, and notify your employer that there is an officially recognized extension.

The underlying problem is that there’s no clear way to check the status of your application beyond the online portal. So, when in doubt, seek advice. Migrant associations are there to help and understand the ins and outs of each case.

If you’re having trouble with your appointment or application, message us on Telegram: https://t.me/cita_extranjeria