THE Spanish government will grant one-year residency and work permits to potentially 25,000 migrants affected by the catastrophic flash floods that hit the eastern part of the country last October.

The extraordinary measure, approved by the Spanish cabinet on Tuesday, is aimed at facilitating paperwork for those living “irregularly” in the dozens of towns affected by torrential rains, mainly in the region of Valencia.

The move is part of the government’s recovery and reconstruction plan after the October 29 disaster that killed 227 people and destroyed countless homes and businesses. 

The ensuing chaos left many migrants unable to abide by the requirements for living, studying and working in Spain legally, according to the ministry. 

The new one-year permits will be given due to the “unexpected exceptional circumstances,” but can be denied if there are concerns over public order, security or health, according to the ministry.

Additionally, foreigners who lost relatives in the floods will be given five-year residency.

While governments across Europe are taking tougher stances against migration, Spain has hailed migrant workers’ contribution to economic growth and job creation last year.

Facing a declining birth rate, Spain’s government has said it needs more migrants working legally and contributing to its social security and pension provisions.