Mercurio system for Spanish immigration applications: a practical guide
Before starting the procedure: requirements and procedures may change. Check the information applicable to your case and consult the relevant official sources.
What is the Mercurio system?
Mercurio is the government online portal provided by the Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security and Migration for submitting residence and work authorization applications online. It was launched to replace the former system, which required applications to be submitted in person, and now allows most applications to be processed without travelling to an office.
It should not be confused with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs platform, which handles consular visas, or with the Central Civil Registry. Mercurio is specifically for Spanish immigration procedures carried out in Spain.
Important: Mercurio handles residence and work authorizations. To apply for a visa from abroad, you must contact the Spanish consulate in your country. To track citizenship applications, use the Central Civil Registry.
What procedures can you complete through Mercurio?
The platform covers both initial applications and renewals. These are the main ones:
| Procedure | Available through Mercurio | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Arraigo social (social-integration residence route) | ✓ Yes | Initial application and renewal |
| Arraigo laboral (former employment-related residence pathway) | ✓ Yes | Initial application and renewal |
| Arraigo familiar (family-based residence route) | ✓ Yes | Initial application and renewal |
| Family reunification | ✓ Yes | Initial application |
| Non-lucrative residence | ✓ Yes | Initial application and renewal |
| Residence for employment (employed work) | ✓ Yes | Submitted by the employer |
| Long-term residence (Spain and EU) | ✓ Yes | Initial application |
| Humanitarian grounds | ~ Partial | Depending on the type of circumstance |
| Immigration appointment | ✗ No | Managed through sede.administracion.gob.es |
How do you access the Mercurio platform?
To use Mercurio, you need to identify yourself electronically. The system accepts the following methods:
Issued by the FNMT or other recognised entities. This is the most common method for individuals.
Valid if you have a card reader and an activated chip. For Spanish citizens only.
The Government’s identification system. You must register in advance, either at an office or online.
Once you have identified yourself, access the online portal of the Ministry of Inclusion: extranjeros.inclusion.gob.es. From there, you will find direct access to Mercurio under online procedures.
If you do not have a digital certificate: you can apply for one free of charge on the FNMT website. You will need to go in person to a registration office (Tax Agency, Social Security or municipal council) to verify your identity.
Steps for submitting an application through Mercurio
The process varies depending on the procedure, but generally follows these steps:
Access the online portal using your digital certificate, electronic DNI or Cl@ve. If you are acting on someone else’s behalf, you need a power of attorney.
Choose the type of authorization that applies to your situation. If you are unsure, first consult the guide for each type of residence before starting.
Each procedure has its own form (EX-01, EX-03, EX-10, etc.). Errors in your personal details or NIE can delay or invalidate your application.
Upload the documents as PDFs. Each file must be no larger than 5 MB. Foreign documents must bear an apostille and be translated by a sworn translator.
Some residence authorizations require payment of the Form 790 fee in advance. The platform is integrated with the Tax Agency for online payment.
Sign electronically and submit your application. You will receive a filing receipt with an application reference number. Keep it to check your application status and for future procedures.
Tip: Before submitting, download and save a copy of everything you attach. If the authorities request additional documents, you will also have to submit them through Mercurio, under the same application.
Residence permit renewal deadlines
Meeting renewal deadlines is essential to avoid losing your legal status in Spain.
| Situation | When to renew | Consequence |
|---|---|---|
| Within the deadline | Up to 60 days before expiry | Regular status while your application is being processed |
| Grace period | Up to 90 days after expiry | Permitted, but may result in an administrative penalty |
| Outside the deadline | More than 90 days after expiry | Irregular immigration status: a new procedure is required |
Don’t wait until the last minute. During periods of high demand, you may have trouble accessing the platform. Ideally, start the process 3 months before expiry.
Do I need an immigration adviser or lawyer to use Mercurio?
It’s not mandatory, but it depends on your situation. If your case is straightforward (a renewal with no issues and complete documentation), you can manage it yourself. It’s advisable to seek professional advice if:
- You have a criminal record or previous administrative penalty proceedings
- Your application has previously been refused
- Documents from your country of origin are difficult to have apostilled
- You’re unsure which type of authorization applies to you
- You need to appeal an administrative decision
Do you have questions about your application in Mercurio?
Our immigration lawyers can review your case and advise you before you submit your application.
How can I check my application status?
Once you have submitted your application, you can check its status in two ways:
Log in with your digital certificate and go to “My applications.” You will see the latest status, the documents you have submitted and whether any requests for additional documents are pending.
In some provinces, you can check the status by entering your application reference number on the Government Delegation’s website, without a digital certificate.
The system sends notifications to the registered email address. Check it regularly: requests for additional documents must be answered within 10 working days. If you do not reply by the deadline, your application may be archived.
Frequently asked questions about Mercurio
Official sources
This content is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional legal advice or information provided by the competent authorities.
