71% of young migrants in Spain who arrived as minors are currently employed
The latest report reveals that seven out of ten young migrants aged 18 to 23 who arrived in Spain as unaccompanied minors are now registered with Social Security. Before the 2021 immigration regulation reform, only 34% were registered. The reform allowed minors under 16 to access the job market automatically and facilitated residency permit renewal for those over 18, leading to a 37-point increase in just four years.
Labor integration and main sectors
Official data shows that as of June 30, 2025, there were 20,072 foreign minors under guardianship or former guardianship between 16 and 23 with valid residency permits in Spain. 62% had contributed at least one day that month, a significant increase from 27% in 2021. The main sectors of employment are hospitality (30%), administrative activities and auxiliary services (15%), and construction (12%). Hospitality employs over half of the younger group (16-17 years old), while older ones have more diversified employment.
More young migrants with residency in Spain
The number of minors and young adults with valid residency permits has tripled in the last four years, from 7,878 in 2021 to over 20,000 in 2025. Most are 18 years old, and the percentage of women remains low at around 6%. While Morocco is still the predominant country of origin, its proportion has decreased from 76% to 57% in four years. Other notable countries for men include Gambia, Algeria, and Senegal, while for women, Colombia and Algeria are also present. [Source: ]
