The massive arrival of South American immigrants in Spain, estimated at **2.5 million** by the end of **2024**, raises serious questions about the country's absorption capacity and its economic impact.
## The South American Wave
The figures being discussed are conclusive. Pilots and sector sources point to an unprecedented increase in arrivals of South American citizens in Spain. It is not just an increase in numbers, but also a change in profile: people of all ages are arriving, including elderly individuals and families facing problems. If the percentage seeking to stay was **20%** before, it is now estimated that up to **50%** or more might do so irregularly.
## The Arrival Calculation
If we consider the **1,800,000** arrivals of family members and the additional **10,000** daily arrivals, with a retention rate between **30% and 50%**, we would be talking about between **1 million and 1.5 million** people joining the **11 million** immigrants already present in Spain. This could raise the total immigrant figure to more than **13 million**.
## A System Under Pressure
The comparison with a "ball theory" that quickly collapses is a visual metaphor for what might be happening. A system with a constant influx of new arrivals can suddenly become overwhelmed. The capacity to host and manage this situation is key to preventing a genuine social and economic collapse.
Summary of a discussion on Burbuja.info - Foro de economía, actualidad y política., translated from Spanish and reviewed before publication.
Read the full discussion (3 replies).
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