Regularize your administrative situation through the various modalities of arraigo. Everything you need to know about Social, Labor, Family, and Training Arraigo.
Information based on official sources
The arraigo is a temporary residence authorization for exceptional circumstances granted to foreign citizens who are in Spain in an irregular situation and meet certain requirements of permanence and ties. In 2026, the legal framework continues to pivot on Organic Law 4/2000 and the Immigration Regulations, although with important flexibilities introduced in recent reforms to favor labor and educational integration.
Unlike other permits, arraigo does not require an application from the country of origin. It is the primary mechanism for regularization once you are already residing in Spanish territory. Understanding which of the four main modalities fits your profile is the first critical step for the success of the process.
94%
Success rate in applications submitted with correct legal advice and complete documentation.
Each type of arraigo has specific time and documentary requirements. Analyze which one fits your current situation.
It is the most common path. It requires proving a continuous stay of 3 years, having no criminal record, and having a work contract of at least 30 hours per week (or demonstrating financial means).
Does not require a minimum stay duration. Ideal for parents of Spanish minors, children of originally Spanish parents, or caregivers of persons with disabilities.
Duration
5 years (Residence and Work)
Requires proving 2 years in Spain and having worked legally for at least 6 months (or proving an irregular labor relationship judicially). Important to have been in an stay or residence situation previously.
Check Work HistoryIntroduces a minimum stay of 2 years. You must commit to undertaking formal vocational training, obtaining a professional certificate, or a university degree.
"Once the studies are completed and with a work contract, it can be transformed into a 2-year residence and work permit."
The law requires proving that you have lived in Spain for the last 3 years without absences exceeding 120 days in total. The primary proof is the historical census registration (empadronamiento). However, it is not the only one. You can present rental receipts, medical consultations, money transfers, or transport passes.
You must request a report from your town hall or autonomous community certifying your integration. Your knowledge of official languages and participation in insertion programs will be assessed. Exception: If you have direct family ties with other foreign residents or with Spanish citizens, this report is not mandatory.
After the latest reform, the contract must guarantee the Interprofessional Minimum Wage (SMI). Contracts of less than 30 hours are allowed if you have minors in your care. The employer must be up to date with their obligations to Social Security and the Tax Agency.
Answer these brief questions to find out which procedure corresponds to you in 2026.
| Feature | Social | Labor | Family | Training |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Years in Spain | 3 years | 2 years | None | 2 years |
| Contract / Work | Mandatory (or means) | Prove prev. 6 months | Not mandatory | Enrollment commitment |
| Criminal Record | Mandatory (Clean) | Mandatory (Clean) | Mandatory (Clean) | Mandatory (Clean) |
| Permit Duration | 1 year | 1 year | 5 years | 12 months (renewable) |
Month 1-2
Collect criminal record certificates from your country (legalized/apostilled) and proofs of stay.
Day 1
Application via Digital Certificate on the Electronic Office of Public Administrations.
Month 3-5
Wait for official notification. In case of negative administrative silence, consult appeal options.
Month 6
Once granted, request an appointment for fingerprinting and obtain your Foreigner Identity Card (TIE).
Leaving Spain for more than 120 days within the 3 years required for social arraigo invalidates continuity.
Criminal record certificates usually have a validity of 3 to 6 months. They must be current at the time of submission.
Companies with debts to Social Security or the Tax Agency will cause an automatic refusal.
Don't rely only on the census registry. Supplement it with bills, money transfers, and any official document dated in Spain.
Submitting through a lawyer or an agency with an agreement usually speeds up response times by 20-30%.
Always check the current official fees (Form 790 052) before paying, as the amounts vary annually.
Don't let an administrative error delay your future in Spain. We have specialized agents who will review your file step by step.