Chapter 5. The Intersection Between Integration And The Legal Framework On Nationality And Immigration In Spain

Abstract

This Chapter explains the changing interaction between the integration of third country nationals (TCNs) and the policy and legal frameworks on nationality and immigration in Spain. It starts by offering an overview of the evolution experienced by this country from being deemed as a source of emigration to a destination of immigration, and the different phases which might be identified until the transformation of this phenomenon into an institutional and structural issue of major political and social relevance. Finally, the chapter assesses the extent to which the transposition of EU immigration law, and particularly the articles of the Council Directives on the status of third country nationals who are long-term residents 2003/109 and on the right to family reunification 2003/86 dealing with integration, has transformed the approaches and perspectives performed by this category in Spanish law.Keywords: EU immigration law; Spanish legislation