InfographicFlows · Spain

Comparison of migratory arrivals to Spain by land and sea (2024-2025) November Update

Migratory flow to Spain drops 41% by mid-November, with a reconfiguration of routes towards the Mediterranean.
25 NOV 2025IEAM TEAM5 MIN READ
Evolution of migratory arrivals to Spain (Jan-Nov 2025).
According to the latest data from the Ministry of the Interior, the flow of migrants to Spain fell by 41% between January 1 and November 15, 2025, compared to the same period in 2024: 31,742 people vs. 54,216 (22,474 fewer).

Overall decline, with clear changes by route

By sea, arrivals fell by around 45%: 51,849 → 28,362. The decline is mainly explained by the Canary Islands, which went from 39,713 → 14,690 (-63%).
At the same time, a relative shift towards the Mediterranean is confirmed:
  • Peninsula: 7,408 → 6,929 (slight decrease).
  • Balearic Islands: 4,717 → 6,683 (+41.7%), a sign of the greater importance of the Mediterranean route.
  • Ceuta (maritime): 28 → 5 (-82.1%).
  • Melilla (maritime): 21 → 25 (+19%).
In addition, the total number of vessels has decreased: 1,539 → 1,122 (-27.1%).
By land, the picture is mixed: Ceuta: 3,101 → 2,281 (decrease). Melilla: 86 → 279 (+224%), a very significant increase.

Keys to understanding the reconfiguration

The infographic points to several elements that help to interpret the change:
  • There has been an increase in the number of Somalis arriving on Spanish shores (a possible indicator of new transit links).
  • The most common point of departure from the Sahel has shifted to Algeria, reinforcing the role of the Mediterranean.
  • There is more pressure on the Mali-Mauritania corridor due to restrictions and expulsions, while the Mediterranean is becoming the main route of entry.

Conclusion

The provisional balance up to November 15, 2025, reflects a sharp reduction in the total, but also an adaptation of routes: fewer Canary Islands, more signs of the Mediterranean, and a land-based upturn in Melilla that should be closely monitored.
“The total flow is decreasing, but the routes are adjusting: the Mediterranean is gaining weight and the pressure is being redistributed.”
Author

IEAM Team

Research