Spain’s Immigration Reform – What You Need to Know in 2025

Effective May 20, 2025, Spain will roll out a new immigration regulation (Royal Decree 1155/2024, approved November 19), marking a significant shift in the legal landscape for non-EU nationals. These reforms are designed to modernize immigration policies, improve integration, and simplify many existing procedures—particularly in relation to visas, residence permits, and family reunification.

Here’s a breakdown of the key changes introduced by this long-anticipated update.

Transitional Measures: What Happens to Existing Permits?

If you currently hold a valid residence permit or are already living in Spain as a family member of a Spanish citizen under arraigo familiar or with an EU family card, no immediate action is required—your documentation remains valid until its natural expiration.

However, if your application is still pending, you have the option to request assessment under the new rules. This could work in your favor depending on your case.

Special transitional provisions include:

• Dependent children (ages 18–26) and dependent parents of Spanish citizens can apply for residence from within Spain until November 20, 2025, as long as they were already present in the country on November 20, 2024.
• Individuals whose asylum claims were rejected and who are currently undocumented may apply for residence through arraigo, provided they can show they’ve been in Spain for at least six months before submitting their application.

These transitional measures aim to ensure a smoother implementation of the updated law.

Student Visas Rebranded: What’s New for International Students?

Student visas are now categorized as long-term stays and come with fresh conditions and criteria aligned with the new legal framework.

Key highlights:

• Applications can be submitted either from Spain or abroad, depending on the study type.
• Applicants must be 18 or older to apply from within Spain.
• Hybrid learning (online + in-person) is permitted, with limitations.
• Only higher education, healthcare, or professional technical training qualifies for in-country application.
• Sports academies and non-academic institutions (e.g., football schools) are no longer eligible.

Tip: Always verify your course’s eligibility with a legal expert before enrolling.

Application processing times:

• 2 months if filed in Spain
• 1 month if submitted from outside Spain
• 15 working days if filed directly by a recognized higher education institution

Important: Time spent on student stays will still count 50% toward the long-term residence requirement.

Arraigo Reform: 5 New Pathways to Legalize Your Stay

The updated regulation reorganizes arraigo permits into five clear categories, each typically granting 1 year of residency—except arraigo familiar, which offers 5 years.

• Second-Chance Arraigo – For those who held a residence permit in the past 2 years but couldn’t renew it (excluding public order or health issues).
• Employment-Based Arraigo – Requires one or more work contracts meeting the legal minimum wage, with at least 20 hours per week.
• Social Arraigo – Based on family ties with legal residents or an official integration report; applicants must prove financial self-sufficiency.
• Training Arraigo – For those enrolled in post-secondary or vocational education, supported by an integration report.
• Family Arraigo – Applies to parents of minor EU citizens, caretakers of disabled relatives, and certain humanitarian situations.

Except for arraigo familiar, all types require 2 years of continuous residence in Spain.

New 5-Year Residence for Family Members of Spanish Citizens

One of the most significant changes is the introduction of a 5-year residence permit for family members of Spanish nationals.

Who is eligible?

• Spouses, civil or stable partners (with at least 12 months of cohabitation unless you share children)
• Children under 26, or older if financially dependent or disabled
• Dependent relatives (including those with humanitarian needs)
• Parents or guardians of Spanish minors
• Caregivers of disabled family members (up to second-degree relatives)
• Children of individuals originally born as Spanish citizens

Once the application is submitted, eligible family members can reside and work legally in Spain. However, during the application process, only spouses, partners, and children have the legal right to work.

Additional information:

• A criminal background check is mandatory
• Processing time is around 2 months
• In the event of changes (e.g., divorce or death), individuals may apply for independent residence status within 6 months
• If that application is denied, a modification request must be submitted within 3 months

Final Thoughts: What This Means for You

Spain’s 2025 immigration reform is a step toward more inclusive, flexible, and streamlined migration procedures. Whether you’re a student, a long-time resident seeking regularization, or a family member looking to reunite with loved ones, these changes open new pathways—but also come with important deadlines and conditions.

To make the most of these new opportunities, consider seeking legal advice tailored to your individual case.

Major Updates in Spanish Immigration Law (RD 1155/2024)