MADRID 001134
Unemployment in Spain has almost reached 20 percent. Immigrants are having a hard time finding jobs and jobs that have a decent salary. Many of these immigrants are from Latin America or Africa and have seen unemployment rise in their home countries as well. Because of this, many aren't inclined to return home, saying that the situation there is often worse.
Around half of all immigrants who come to Spain are actively seeking work. However, less than 10 percent have a job before they arrive. For the first time in 13 years there are fewer immigrants living in Spain because of the high unemployment rate. Studies have been conducted to determine the impact of the economic crisis on the immigrant population. Over 60 percent of immigrants in Spain have been living here for over five years. Many had previously been able to work without official papers, however, now there is less "off the books" work available. They have now turned to the government for permits to work legally. The process for getting papers has become more difficult and it has been said that many immigrants who are applying for work permits are also seeking residency (as residents, they would be able to collect generous unemployment benefits).
http://wikileaks.ch/cable/2009/11/09MADRID1134.html
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