How to Apply for a Residence Permit in Spain: Types, Requirements and Documentation
Applying for a residence permit in Spain is a key step for non-EU nationals who wish to live legally in the country for more than 90 days. The type of permit and the application process depend on the applicant’s personal, professional and family circumstances.This article explains the main residence permit options in Spain, who each one is for, and the documentation required.
A residence permit is the legal authorization that allows a foreign national to live in Spain for a specific period of time. It can be temporary (usually valid for up to one year and renewable) or long-term (after several years of continuous legal residence). Some residence permits include authorization to work, while others do not. This are the main types of residence permit in Spain:
1. Non-Lucrative Residence Permit
Who is it for? Foreign nationals who wish to live in Spain without carrying out any work or professional activity, and who can prove sufficient financial means. This permit does not allow employment, but it may be modified later.
Main requirements:
- Proof of sufficient economic resources.
- Private health insurance valid in Spain.
- No criminal record.
- Not being in an irregular situation in Spain.
Required documentation:
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Valid passport.
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Criminal record certificate from the country of origin.
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Medical certificate.
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Proof of financial means.
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Private health insurance policy.
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Official application form.
2. Residence and Work Permit (Employed Work)
Elegible for foreign nationals who have a job offer from a Spanish company. In most cases, the employer starts the application process in Spain.
Main requirements:
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Signed employment contract.
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The employer must meet legal and financial requirements.
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The position must be included in the shortage occupation list or be justified.
Required documentation:
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Passport.
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Employment contract.
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Employer’s legal documentation.
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Criminal record certificate.
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Professional qualifications or experience (if required).
3. Residence and Work Permit (Self-Employed)
The Foreign nationals who want to start a business or work as freelancers in Spain can apply.
Main requirements:
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Viable business plan.
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Proof of sufficient investment.
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Relevant professional qualifications.
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Compliance with Spanish regulations for the activity.
Required documentation:
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Business plan.
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Passport.
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Criminal record certificate.
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Licenses or permits required for the activity.
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Proof of financial investment.
4. Family Reunification Residence Permit
Who is it for? Family members of legally resident foreign nationals in Spain.
Eligible family members:
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Spouse or registered partner.
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Minor children or dependent children.
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Parents (under certain conditions).
Main requirements:
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The sponsor must have legally resided in Spain for at least one year.
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Proof of sufficient financial means.
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Adequate housing.
Required documentation:
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Passports of all applicants.
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Proof of family relationship (marriage or birth certificates).
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Housing adequacy report.
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Proof of financial means.
5. Residence Permit Due to Exceptional Circumstances (Arraigo)
Who is it for? Foreign nationals in an irregular situation in Spain who meet specific legal requirements.
Types of arraigo:
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Social arraigo: Continuous residence in Spain for at least 2 or 3 years and a job offer.
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Labor arraigo: Proof of previous employment relationships.
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Family arraigo: Family ties with Spanish citizens.
Required documentation:
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Proof of continuous stay in Spain.
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Registration certificate (padrón).
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Employment contract or family relationship documents.
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Social integration report (when required).
6. Residence as a Family Member of an EU Citizen
Who is it for? Family members of Spanish citizens or citizens of other EU countries.
Eligible family members:
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Spouse or registered partner.
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Children.
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Dependent parents.
Advantages:
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Faster procedure.
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Right to work from the first day.
Required documentation:
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Passport.
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Proof of family relationship.
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EU citizen registration certificate.
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Proof of economic dependency (if applicable).
You can submit the Residence Permit from your country of origin (usually at the Spanish consulate) or from whitin SPain (at Oficina de Extranjería). Once the residence authorization is granted, the applicant must apply for the Foreigner Identity Card (TIE).
Final Tips
Make sure to choose the residence permit that best fits your situation and Ensure that all documents are valid, legalized or apostilled when required. After having completed all the documentation, book the appoinments. It is highly recommenden to seek professional inmigration legal advidce, in case of any doubts we will be pleased to support you during this process and advise for the best options.