MADRID, May 4 (UPI) -- A study shows immigrants contribute more to Spain than they receive in education, health and pensions.
A report on "Immigration and the Welfare State in Spain" showed immigrants make up 12 percent of the population but are only using 5 percent of government services, Think Spain reported.
The study compared the contribution made by non-Spaniards to the country's economic growth and the strength of the social security system.
Jaime Lanaspa, director of the Fundacion la Caixa, said immigrants are not well informed of services offered by the government.
"This reality is a direct contrast to the general perception society has and which needs to be reversed through information and education," said Lanaspa.
Lanaspa said illegal immigrants contribute to the government welfare system by paying taxes, consuming goods and working.
