extranjeros

Extranjeros is a Spanish noun and adjective referring to people who are not citizens or permanent residents of a given country. It is commonly used to distinguish non-nationals from nationals in legal, administrative, and social contexts. The word derives from Latin extrāneus, meaning “outside” or “foreign.”

In law and policy, the term designates a category used for purposes such as visas, residence, work permits, and social rights. In Spain, for example, the Ley de Extranjería and related regulations govern admission, registration, and residency of extranjeros, with statuses including tourists, temporary residents, and long-term residents; similar frameworks exist across Latin America, reflecting national immigration systems.

In everyday language, it simply means people from other countries and may also refer to non-native residents. Depending on tone and setting, it can be neutral or carry pejorative nuance, so some writers prefer "personas extranjeras" or "residentes extranjeros" to emphasize personhood or residency.

Demography and society: Extranjeros contribute to labor markets, culture, and demographics; integration policies, access to education, healthcare, and social services vary by country and status.

See also immigration, migration, nationality law.