Arraigo social in Spain: requirements and steps in 2026
Date Published
What is arraigo social
A temporary residence authorisation for exceptional circumstances, for foreigners who have been living in Spain without a residence permit.
Requirements
Continuous stay in Spain for the required period, no criminal record, and ties: a job contract, sufficient means, or a social integration report from your town hall.
Proving your stay
Historical padrón registration, medical records, money transfers, or any dated official document. The more evidence, the stronger the file.
Procedure
Filed at the Immigration Office of your province. Resolution period is three months; silence means refusal, but it can be appealed.
Professional tip
Each office applies its own criteria on proof of stay. A prior consultation avoids refusals that later cost months of appeals.