The new immigration regulations, approved by Royal Decree 1155/2024, introduce admission requirements that could facilitate the path to Spanish citizenship. The aim of this reform is to simplify immigration procedures, strengthen the rights of migrants, and take into account Spain’s international obligations.
“The regulation aims to intensify the fight against human trafficking, mafia activities, fraud, and the violation of rights,” stated the Minister of Inclusion, Social Security, and Migration, Elma Saiz, during the presentation of the new law. “It strikes a balance between expanding and protecting the rights of migrants, legal rigor, and consideration of Spain’s needs. This will create legal certainty, simplify procedures, and protect rights.”
New Opportunities for Migrants in Spain
“The new regulations open up new opportunities for people who want to live in Spain, for themselves and their families,” said Saiz. She emphasized that it will be easier for expats and other foreigners to build a life in Spain.
“For example, students who come to Spain for training can more easily enter the labor market after graduation. Family members who join them will also now have the opportunity to apply for their own work permit,” she added.
A significant advancement is the extension of the job-seeker visa from the previous three months to one year. “The new visa regulation allows searching in specific professions and regions. We have extended the validity from three to twelve months to make it easier for people to find a job that matches their professional profile, while also helping companies find the skilled workers they need,” Saiz emphasized.
“The goal is to strengthen and expand the opportunities for migrants in Spain so that they can access legal status and lead a fulfilling civic life with rights and obligations,” she further explained.
Unification of Legal Statuses from May 20th
Saiz announced that five legal statuses will be unified starting on May 20th:
- Family: Spouses must be at least 18 years old to qualify. There will be more clarity on which relatives are eligible and what constitutes adequate accommodation for family members.
- Social: Victims of gender-based violence, sexual violence, and human trafficking, as well as their dependent family members, will be entitled to support and legal residency.
- Socio-educational: A new permit for individuals enrolled in vocational training.
- Socio-labor: Regularization will now be done through valid employment contracts.
- Second Chance: For individuals who previously had legal status but have lost it.
Significant Changes Through the Reform
The reform brings significant changes in residency categories, family reunification regulations, and labor protection. Spanish officials emphasize that the goal is to reduce bureaucracy and align immigration policy more closely with international obligations.
Faster and Simpler Procedures
- The bureaucratic burden for residence and work permits will be reduced.
- Processing times will be accelerated.
- The transition between different types of permits will be facilitated.
Three Levels of Inclusion Opening New Doors
- Work: Most work permits will allow employment from the outset, without the need for an explicit initial authorization to work as an employee. A special residence and work permit for seasonal activities has been introduced, facilitating both individual and collective hiring and strengthening workers’ rights.
- Training/Studies: Students can obtain a residence permit for the duration of their studies and, upon graduation, access an accelerated program for a work permit. Up to 30 working hours per week are allowed during studies.
- Family: A new residence permit for family members of Spanish citizens has been created. The age limit for children has been increased from 21 to 26, and new specific circumstances are considered, such as unregistered couples with demonstrable emotional ties. Furthermore, individuals who have obtained Spanish citizenship in recent years can bring their families to Spain. The concept of family reunification is extended to children and parents of victims of human trafficking or gender-based violence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is “arraigo para la formación” (social-educational roots) and who qualifies? A: This is a permit for non-EU citizens who are enrolled in vocational training programs aimed at promoting integration through education.
Q: What happens if I already have a valid residence or work permit? A: Existing permits remain valid until they expire – there is no need to reapply under the new rules.
Q: Do these changes affect my family permit or EU citizen family card? A: There are no immediate changes for valid family or EU citizen cards. These remain in effect until their expiration.
Q: What happens if I apply for a residence permit shortly before the new law comes into effect? A: Applications submitted before May 20th will be processed according to the current regulations.
