Arraigo social (social roots-based residence)
Residence and work permit for foreign nationals in an irregular situation who have lived in Spain for at least 2 years and can prove social integration, either through family ties or an integration report issued by their autonomous community.
General guidance. This is not legal advice. Requirements depend on the regulations in force (Art. 125 y 127 RD 1155/2024) and on your specific case. Confirm it with the authorities or a professional before starting any procedure.
Who is it for?
Non-EU nationals in an irregular situation who have been in Spain continuously for 2 years and can prove arraigo (roots) through family ties with legal residents or an integration-effort report, and who have sufficient financial means.
Main requirements
- Be a national of a country outside the European Union
- Be in Spain in an irregular situation
- Have lived in Spain continuously for at least 2 years
- Prove sufficient financial means to support yourself
- Have no criminal record in Spain or in your previous countries of residence
Duration
1 year, renewable
Usual documentation
- Full valid passport
- Certificate of registration (empadronamiento) proving your stay
- Criminal record certificate from your country of origin and from Spain
- Documentation of family ties with legal residents or an integration report from the autonomous community
- Proof of sufficient financial means
- Application form (form EX-10) and payment of the fee