Changes to the Arraigo program in Spain 2024

As of November 2024, Spain is introducing updates to the Arraigo program to simplify the legalization process for long-term resident foreigners.

These changes increase access to residence permits for different categories of people in difficult situations. Here are the key innovations:

✅	Arraigo de Segunda Oportunidad

«Second Chance Residency»: A new category is being introduced for foreigners who have resided in Spain for two years and have had a work history of at least six months. This option is useful for those who have previously been unable to legalize, such as those who have had temporary status on the basis of protection or who have gone through economic hardship.

• The innovation will help those who have failed to renew their documents and are now in an unsettled status.

✅	Arraigo Sociolaboral

To obtain a residence permit on this basis, the period of mandatory residence in Spain has been reduced from three to two years and a contract with a salary at the minimum wage level (SMI) is required. Unlike the previous version, a social integration report is not required, simplifying the procedure.

• This decision is aimed at those who already have an offer of employment in Spain and makes it easier for migrant workers to obtain a residence permit.

✅	Arraigo Socioformativo

This form of residency has been redesigned and now allows foreigners who have lived in Spain for two years to legalize through training in a sought-after profession. The new rules allow work up to 20 hours per week and expand opportunities to participate in educational programs, including online courses and entry-level vocational training.

• The program allows for a second year extension if the student is actively seeking employment or pursuing further study.

✅	Arraigo Social

This category retains the three-year residency requirement, but adds additional requirements for financial sustainability. It is now necessary to have savings at 100% IPREM level (about 600 euros per month).

• In addition, there may be changes on pre-contracts or other forms of income that allow for a stable income in Spain.

❓WHAT DOES IT MEAN

These updates make the process of obtaining a residence permit more flexible and accessible to different categories of foreigners, facilitating their integration into the Spanish economy and society.

Detailed information is also available on the official website of the European Commission for Integration.