Arraigo (residence through roots in Spain)
Arraigo grants residence to people already living in Spain without a permit. Since 20 May 2025 the required stay is 2 years, and there are five types.
Possible routes
Regularise your situation from within Spain
2 years in Spain + a job contract paying at least the minimum wage (20 h/week or more).
2 years in Spain + family ties with residents or an integration report.
2 years in Spain + enrolment in recognised training.
Parent or carer of a Spanish or EU minor, or support for a relative with a disability. No minimum stay.
| Type | Stay | Key requirement | Permit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sociolaboral | 2 years | One or more contracts paying at least the minimum wage, 20 hours a week or more | 1 year · may work |
| Social | 2 years | Family ties with resident foreigners or a social integration report from the region or town hall | 1 year · may work |
| Socioformativo | 2 years | Enrolment in formal education, a professional certificate or other recognised training | 1 year · work allowed |
| Second chance | 2 years | Held a residence permit in the previous 2 years and lost it by not renewing | 1 year · may work |
| Familiar | No minimum | Parent or guardian of a Spanish or EU minor, or support for a relative with a disability | 5 years · may work |
Common requirements
- No criminal record in Spain or in countries of residence in the last 5 years
- No entry ban or no-return commitment
- Full, valid passport
- Proof of continuous stay (padrón and other documents)
After approval
- Social Security registration when the arraigo is based on a contract
- Fingerprint appointment and TIE application within 1 month
- Renewal after the first year
How we help
- We choose the type with the best chance in your case
- We review the contract, integration report or enrolment
- We obtain and legalise documents from your country
- We file and follow up your case
Frequently asked questions
How long does an arraigo take?
The authorities have a legal term of 3 months. If they do not answer, it counts as a refusal (administrative silence) and can be appealed. Actual times depend on each office's workload; we keep you informed.
Can I work while my application is pending?
It depends. For a first application, generally not until it is granted. If you renew on time, your previous permit is extended until the decision and you keep your rights.
I applied for the extraordinary regularisation and have heard nothing. What now?
The application window under Royal Decree 316/2026 closed on 30 June 2026. If you applied, we can check the status of your file, answer requests and prepare your TIE and future renewal.
Tell us your case. We will tell you your route.
First assessment consultation at our Valencia office or by video call. You leave with a roadmap, the list of documents and a fixed written quote.