The concept of arraigo in Spain refers to a legal mechanism that allows people without regular immigration status to apply for temporary residence on exceptional grounds. This mechanism is fundamental to the regularization of many immigrants and is divided into different types according to each applicant’s circumstances.

In this article, we will explore the types of residence permits through arraigo in Spain, the requirements for each one, and the application procedure. We will also cover the latest updates on the subject.

What is arraigo?

Arraigo is a legal route that allows foreign nationals to apply for a residence permit in Spain. It is based on the principle that people who have established ties to the country, whether through family, work or social integration, are entitled to regularize their immigration status.

There are several arraigo categories, each with its own specific requirements. The aim is to offer a second chance to people who have shown a willingness to integrate into Spanish society and meet certain conditions set out by law.

Arraigo is considered a way to promote immigrants’ inclusion in the labour market and social life of the country. This measure is especially relevant in a context where immigration plays an important role in Spain’s population and economy.

What types of arraigo are there in Spain?

Spain recognizes five main types of arraigo:

• Arraigo familiar (family-based residence route)
• Arraigo laboral (former employment-related residence pathway)
• Arraigo social (social-integration residence route)
• Arraigo para la formación (training-based residence route)
• Arraigo de segunda oportunidad (second-chance residence route)

Each type has its own characteristics and requirements. Below is a brief description of each one.

Arraigo familiar is granted to foreign nationals who have family ties to Spanish citizens or permanent residents. Arraigo laboral, meanwhile, is intended for those who have worked legally in Spain for at least six months.

Arraigo social is granted to applicants who have lived in Spain for at least three years and have demonstrated their integration. In addition, arraigo para la formación allows people who have lived in the country for two years to access vocational training. Finally, arraigo de segunda oportunidad offers a fresh opportunity to people who have previously had difficulties with their immigration status.

General requirements for an arraigo residence permit

The general requirements for obtaining a residence permit through arraigo (a Spanish residence pathway based on ties to Spain) include:

• Have no criminal record in Spain or in your country of origin.
• Show that you have sufficient financial means to live in Spain.
• Have an address in Spain.
• Submit the application to the relevant Immigration Office.

It is important to note that each type of arraigo also has specific requirements that must be met for the application to be considered.

Failure to meet these requirements may result in the application being refused. It is therefore essential to prepare the required documents and make sure you meet all the established criteria.

Specific requirements for each type of arraigo

The specific requirements for each type of arraigo in Spain are set out below:

Arraigo familiar

For arraigo familiar (family-based residence route), you must show that you live with a Spanish citizen or have parental responsibilities. This may include submitting documents proving the family relationship, such as birth or marriage certificates.

Arraigo laboral

Arraigo laboral requires the applicant to have worked legally in Spain for at least six months. This must be evidenced by employment contracts, payslips or similar documents proving the employment relationship.

Social roots residence permit

For arraigo social (social-integration residence route), the applicant must have lived in Spain for at least three years and submit a social integration report demonstrating their participation in the community. This may include volunteering, courses or any activity that demonstrates their integration.

Arraigo for training

For arraigo for training, you must have lived in Spain for at least two years and have been accepted onto a vocational training programme. This may include enrolment certificates from recognised educational institutions.

Arraigo de segunda oportunidad

This type of arraigo allows people who have experienced problems with their immigration status to submit their application again. The specific requirements may vary, but generally involve demonstrating an intention to integrate into society and comply with the regulations in force.

How to apply for temporary residence authorization on exceptional grounds through arraigo

The procedure for applying for temporary residence authorization through arraigo involves the following steps:

1. Gather all the required documents for the type of arraigo you are applying for.
2. Submit the application to the relevant Immigration Office.
3. Wait for the decision, which may take up to three months.
4. If approved, receive the temporary residence permit, which is usually valid for one year.

It is essential to make sure that all documents are complete and accurate to avoid delays in processing. The authorities take these procedures very seriously, so it is advisable to seek appropriate advice.

Updates on temporary residence on grounds of arraigo

There have recently been updates to the regulations concerning arraigo in Spain. These changes aim to facilitate immigrants’ integration and ensure that human rights are respected throughout the immigration process.

One of the main developments is shorter response times for applications, as well as simpler documentation requirements in some cases. This reflects a shift in Spain’s immigration policy towards greater inclusion.

In addition, support programmes have been introduced for people seeking access to training or employment, thereby facilitating their integration into Spanish society.

Related questions about residence through arraigo in Spain

What are the 5 arraigo routes in Spain?

The five types of arraigo in Spain are: arraigo familiar, arraigo laboral, arraigo social, arraigo for training, and arraigo de segunda oportunidad (second-chance residence route). Each has specific requirements that must be met to obtain a residence permit.

Which arraigo route is the fastest in Spain?

Arraigo familiar is generally considered the fastest option, as applications demonstrating family ties to Spanish citizens are processed more quickly. However, processing times may also depend on the workload of each Immigration Office.

How many types of residence are there in Spain?

There are several types of residence in Spain, mainly divided into residence through arraigo and standard residence permits. As mentioned above, there are five types of arraigo that allow foreign nationals to regularize their immigration status.

How long does residence under the arraigo pathway last?

The residence permit under the arraigo pathway is valid for one year, after which it may be renewed if the requirements are met again. It is important to note that, when renewing it, you must show that you have maintained your legal status and have no criminal record.