HIBAPRESS – Omar Razzini: Barcelona Office
The Pakistani Consulate in Barcelona has witnessed a noticeable surge in activity in recent days, due to the large influx of members of the Pakistani community residing in Spain, who wish to complete their residency and work permit applications, especially obtaining a certificate of good conduct.
This intensive influx comes after the Spanish government approved the collective settlement decision, which aims to regularize the legal status of thousands of undocumented immigrants, and give them the opportunity for legal integration into the labor market and Spanish society. Several applicants explained that the consulate is experiencing long queues and increasing administrative pressure, especially considering the certificate of good conduct as an essential document within the settlement file. They also pointed out that the large demand may lead to delays in appointments and processing applications. For its part, the Pakistani consulate is seeking to organize the reception process and intensify its efforts to cope with this exceptional demand, in light of the increasing number of beneficiaries of the collective settlement procedures approved by the Spanish authorities. It is expected that this pressure will continue in the coming period, coinciding with the continued submission of settlement applications, amid the hopes of the Pakistani community to improve their legal status and ensure professional and social stability within Spain.
