What is Arraigo in Spain
Residence permit based on arraigo (rootedness) is one of the simplest and most common ways of legalization in Spain for foreigners who have been in the country for an extended period without a valid residence permit. The program is based on proving that you have lived in Spain for a certain period, already have social ties, and are integrated into local society.
On May 20, 2025, a new immigration Regulation to Royal Decree 1155/2024 came into force, which introduced additional grounds for arraigo, reduced the residence requirement in Spain from three to two years, and simplified document requirements for application.
Main conditions for obtaining residence permit through arraigo
Main advantages of residence permit through arraigo
Legalization of residence on legal grounds
Allows official stay in Spain after residing in the country without legal status. Opens access to the social system, healthcare, and other government services.
Right to work
Residence permit through Arraigo provides the right to work immediately after approval: both as an employee and self-employed (autónomo).
Flexibility in field of activity
Unlike startup visa or digital nomad residence permit, Arraigo does not require an innovative project or exclusively remote work. You can work with local clients, run a small business, develop offline services.
Minimal financial requirements
Requirements for proof of income or savings are relatively low (especially for social arraigo) or absent altogether (for "second chance" arraigo).
Possibility of renewal and path to permanent residence
Initial permit is usually issued for 1 year, with the possibility of renewal for another year. After 5 years of continuous legal residence, you can apply for permanent residence (residencia de larga duración). After 10 years of residence — possibility to apply for Spanish citizenship (subject to conditions).
Types of arraigo depending on grounds
Application procedure and processing times
Where to apply
The application must be submitted in person to the immigration office at your place of residence.
Before submitting, check that all official documents (birth certificates, marriage certificates, disability documents, etc.) have jurado translation — this is a translation into Spanish performed and certified by a sworn translator from the official registry of translators.
Application processing time
Officially — 3 months, but in practice can be from 3 weeks to 6 months.
Renewal and modification of permit
Permit based on arraigo is issued for a period of 1 year. After that you can:
renew it for another year (if you provide proof of continuing education, active job search, or registration with the state employment service)
modify it to another type of residence permit in Spain with the right to work as an employee or self-employed
