The Spanish government issued a clear warning that irregular entry through Ceuta and Melilla, the crossing points from Africa to Europe, does not grant any legal rights. The Interior Ministry stressed that those who enter this way cannot obtain the right to stay in Spain, move to the mainland, or travel freely in Europe.
The statement highlighted the serious life-threatening risks of such entries and noted that a recent Spanish Supreme Court ruling clarified procedures for those arriving by sea but did not amend the Immigration Law. The ministry added that the ruling does not obstruct return operations and does not establish a new entry route.
Security measures continue at the Spain-Morocco border, the statement said, adding that the 500-meter floating barrier at the Tarajal breakwater had been reinforced in line with the court ruling. The ministry confirmed that almost all of those who tried to cross on July 30 were returned to Morocco.
The ministry reminded that a two-stage border control is in place in Ceuta and Melilla. Following the first check at the Moroccan border, it explained, identity verification under Schengen rules is carried out for sea and air travel to the Spanish mainland, and no one whose identity has not been confirmed by police can board a vessel or aircraft.
The ministry stressed that the extraordinary regularization process is unrelated to these events, and only applies to individuals living in Spain before January 1, 2026, meaning that those who entered on July 30 cannot benefit. The ministry reiterated, "The only way is the legal way."
On July 30, over 800 irregular migrants attempting to swim from the shore of Fnideq, Morocco, to Ceuta were intercepted. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez said the government had mobilized all its resources in response.
The rising irregular migration attempts toward Ceuta prompted the Spanish government to deploy armed forces to the region for security. Meanwhile, the death toll of irregular migrants trying to cross from Morocco to Spain reached 88.
