The Valencian Community has experienced a significant reduction in asylum applications during 2025, marking the first time in decades that a decrease has been recorded. According to the annual report by the Spanish Commission for Refugee Aid (CEAR), international protection requests have fallen by 12.6% compared to the previous year, dropping from 7,981 applications in 2024 to 6,976 in 2025.
On a provincial level, Valencia registers the most applications with 3,540 but also shows the largest reduction (-20%). Castellón, conversely, has seen an increase (1,373), while Alicante has experienced a 17% decrease (2,062). Jaume Durà, head of CEAR Valencia's legal department, explains that this trend is due to agreements with third countries to contain migratory flows and the deterrent effect of the Foreigners' Regulation (RELOEX), which no longer allows waiting time to be counted for residency permits.
Venezuelan nationality continues to be the largest source of applications, although requests from Colombians, Peruvians, or Senegalese have fallen drastically. Furthermore, Spain's asylum recognition rate has dropped to a mere 11%, placing the country third from last in the EU.
CEAR also warns of persistent obstacles in accessing basic rights in Spain, including Valencia. Mercedes Ena, coordinator for CEAR Valencia, highlights difficulties in accessing residency registration (padrón), decent housing, and public services, which limit access to fundamental rights.
The report also notes a 23.6% increase in hate crimes and incidents, particularly racist and xenophobic ones. Globally, displaced persons have decreased, but the need for international protection continues to rise due to conflicts and climate crises.
