Spain passed a decree recently that will pay jobless immigrants to go back home. The decree, which takes effect in about one month, is completely voluntary and will pay a lump sum (to total the amount of benefits they are due) to immigrants who have been laid off and are eligible for unemployment benefits. The immigrants will receive 40% when they denounce their residency and work permits and another 60% when they arrive home. The immigrants must agree not to return to Spain for three years, with the promise of a residency and work permit after that time. This plan is only available to non EU citizens who live in one of 19 countries that Spain has an agreement with.

Spain is currently flirting with a recession and fears it will not be able to handle a major blow to the economy. Unemployment is now at a staggering 10.7% due mainly to the collapse of the construction industry.

Not actually a bad idea, I say! Sure, Spain is still paying the benefits, but think of the savings! No medical costs for those immigrants, it will free up the few jobs for those who are still there, lowering the unemployment, and when things get better, these workers can come back! It also works out well for the immigrants who really have nothing to lose. They are still getting the money they are entitled to, and they can still come back.

Maybe we should try something like this?