Facing a significant labour shortage, the region of Galicia in Spain has launched an innovative program aimed at regularizing undocumented immigrants by providing free training in sectors experiencing high demand for workers. This initiative is a collaborative effort between the regional government, the charitable organization Cáritas, and local businesses.
The program is grounded in a government decree known as "arraigo para la formación," which requires participants to undergo professional training and secure employment contracts as a pathway to legal residency. Since its inception, the initiative has benefited hundreds of immigrants, offering them residency permits and stable employment opportunities in industries such as hospitality, construction, tourism, and agriculture.
Due to its success, the regional government has decided to expand the program, allocating additional funds to support more foreign workers. This approach not only addresses labor shortages but also promotes the social and economic integration of immigrants into the community.