Snap election in Spain: what happens to your immigration case?

Today, 5 October, Spain's Prime Minister, Pedro Sánchez, announced an early general election, to be held on 29 November 2026. Since the news broke, many people with open files have been asking us: will my regularisation stop? What about my nationality application? Do I need to do anything?

The short answer: there is no need to panic.

Your file keeps moving

Calling an election means dissolving the Cortes, Spain's Congress and Senate, and that affects the passing of new laws. But it does not stop the administration. The Immigration Offices and the Ministry of Justice keep working, and applications that have already been submitted will be decided just as before.

This applies to:

• The extraordinary regularisation. It has already been approved and is under way. Submitted applications will continue to be decided, and granted or refused depending on whether the requirements are met, as until now.
• Spanish nationality. Files remain with the Ministry of Justice. Oath ceremonies and registration at the Civil Registry continue.
• Arraigo, renewals, family reunification and other permits. They continue to be processed as usual.

Meanwhile, the Government becomes a caretaker government: it can keep running day-to-day affairs, but its ability to approve major changes is limited.

What we recommend

1. Don't put your application on hold. If you are preparing one, go ahead.
2. Respond to requests on time. The election does not suspend deadlines. If the authorities ask you for a document, the deadline to submit it still applies.
3. Be wary of rumours. In the coming weeks, alarmist messages and offers to "speed up" files will circulate. Always check official sources or ask a professional.
4. If you have questions about your specific case, contact us. Every file is different, and we will tell you clearly where yours stands.