Arraigo and Exceptional Circumstances in Spain
Assessment of the applicable route, document preparation and support for exceptional-circumstances and arraigo applications.
Quick answer
Arraigo is a group of temporary residence permits based on exceptional circumstances. Under the current reform, the main forms include second opportunity, socio-labour, social, socio-training and family arraigo, each with distinct requirements.
Who may qualify
- People in Spain who meet the conditions of a specific arraigo category.
- For social, socio-labour and socio-training arraigo, at least two years of continuous presence is generally a key requirement; family arraigo has its own grounds.
- People who previously held certain residence permits in second-opportunity cases.
Main requirements
- Identify the exact arraigo category; requirements are not interchangeable.
- Evidence the required period of presence where applicable.
- Depending on the category: employment contracts, family/integration evidence, training or previous residence status.
Documents
- Passport and EX-10 form.
- Evidence of continuous presence in Spain where required.
- Category-specific documents: contracts, integration report, enrolment/training, family documents or evidence of previous residence.
- Certificates and other documents required for the specific ground.
How the procedure works
- Identify the arraigo category fitting the facts.
- Prepare presence evidence and the special documents for that category.
- File in Spain; after approval, complete subsequent formalities including the TIE.
Frequently asked questions
How long must I have been in Spain for arraigo?
Several categories under the new Regulations require at least two years of continuous presence, but this is not identical for every type. Family arraigo, for example, follows separate grounds.
Which arraigo types exist now?
The current Regulations include second opportunity, socio-labour, social, socio-training and family arraigo.
Official sources
Last reviewed: 20/08/2026
Residency and immigration services
Assistance with residence or residence-and-work authorisations based on exceptional circumstances and arraigo routes.
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