Madrid: Spain on Monday clarified that entering the country irregularly through its North African enclaves of Ceuta or Melilla does not grant individuals the right to remain in the territory, travel to the mainland, or move freely within Europe. This announcement comes amidst ongoing discussions about immigration policies and border control measures.

According to Anadolu Agency, the Spanish Foreign Ministry emphasized that no recent court ruling has modified these stipulations. The Ministry noted that a Supreme Court decision merely clarifies the procedures for those who arrive by sea but does not alter the existing Immigration Act, nor does it make the refusal of entry at the border unlawful or open any new routes for entry. Furthermore, it does not interfere with the process of returning individuals who cross the border irregularly.

In response to recent events, the Ministry has strengthened the border with a 500-meter maritime containment barrier at the Tarajal breakwater, stating that this measure aligns with the court ruling and supports ongoing returns. The Ministry reported that nearly all individuals who crossed into Ceuta on July 30 have been returned to Morocco.

Ceuta and Melilla are noted to have a unique border control regime within Europe, with an initial control at the Moroccan border followed by a second Schengen control before any departure by sea or air to mainland Spain. The Ministry reiterated that no one is allowed to travel to mainland Spain without first identifying themselves to police authorities.

The Foreign Ministry also clarified that the country's extraordinary regularization process, which applies only to individuals residing in Spain prior to January 1, 2026, is unrelated to the recent border crossings. It stressed that those who crossed on July 30 are excluded from this process, underscoring that the legal route remains the sole avenue for entry.