Senegambians in Spain rejoice over new immigration rules  

The long-awaited law which was not only opposed by the far right was vehemently refused by the populist parties who threatened and even vowed to block any similar rules or regulations in favour of the migrants.  

However, Jose Luis Escriva, the Spanish Minister of Inclusion, Social Security and Migration, intimated that the country aims to “modernise the migration model…it will encourage regular and safe migration”.  

Responding to this correspondent, Bakary Sidibeh, a Gambian working in the agricultural sector said: "It is long overdue. We waited for too long. It nearly succeeded few years ago, but some elements derailed everything..."

Accordingly, the European Commission has commended Madrid revealing that the “reform of the Regulation on foreigners to streamline procedures and incorporate workers into Spain’s labour market came into force on August 15, 2022, 20 days after it was announced in the official state gazette.”  

The Commission also revealed that the “reform allows those who have lived in Spain for two years to regularise their situation if they are skilled or trained to be employed in sectors that are in need of workers”.  

Consequently, the procedure would enable migrants to obtain various work permits and also make it easier for them to remain in the country legally.  

However, there are conditions attached to obtain permits for employment, family reunification as well as several other social motives.  

Nonetheless, The Point also gathered that migrants will be required to conduct "formal training for employment" and other forms of "preparation" including classes conducted by the State Public Employment Service.  

Gambians are described as "quick learners and hardworking...flexible to be part of a work-force."

Furthermore, the reform also amends the rules promoting the welfare and stability of foreign students including the hours they are allowed to work or the time they can legally stay in the country following the completion of studies or employment.