Guide · Information

Arraigo: what it is and where to get information

Hola Papeles does not handle arraigo. It is a first-time authorisation that needs your specific case assessed. This page summarises the official information so you know where to start.[2][1]

Reviewed: 24/10/2026 · Hola Papeles editorial team · How we write our guides

5 typessecond chance, work-based, social, training-based and family[1]
2 yearsof continuous stay for most types (not family), with absences up to 90 days[1]
3 monthsdecision time for arraigo social; silence means refusal[2]

Types of arraigo (Royal Decree 1155/2024)

  • Second chance (segunda oportunidad): for people who held a residence permit (not one for exceptional circumstances) in the previous 2 years that was not renewed for reasons other than public order, security or public health.[3][4]
  • Work-based (sociolaboral): with one or more contracts totalling at least 20 hours a week.[1]
  • Social: with family ties or an integration report, plus financial means.[2]
  • Training-based (socioformativo): enrolled in certain training courses.[1]
  • Family (familiar): cases in art. 127.e of the Regulation.[1][3]

Common requirements

  • At least 2 years of continuous stay in Spain before applying, with total absences not exceeding 90 days. Arraigo familiar requires no minimum stay.[3][1][2]
  • Not being an international protection applicant when applying or while the application is processed.[2]
  • Not holding another stay or residence authorisation, and not being party to a pending grant, extension, renewal or modification procedure.[3][2]
  • No criminal record in Spain or in your countries of residence over the last 5 years.[2]

Arraigo social: form and fee

Apply with form EX-10, in person at your provincial Immigration Office or online (Mercurio). The fee is form 790 code 052, section 2.3.1, payable within 10 working days. Decision time is 3 months; no reply means refusal.[2]

If granted: the TIE

Within one month of notification you must apply in person for your TIE at the police in your province.[2] That step we do prepare: TIE · first issue (fingerprints).

Where to get help

To assess whether you qualify, consult an independent lawyer of your choice. If you cannot afford one, Bar Associations run Legal Guidance Services[5] and you can check free legal aid.[6] Hola Papeles does not work with lawyers or refer clients.

Frequently asked questions

Does Hola Papeles handle arraigo?
No. It is a first-time authorisation that needs the specific case assessed. We only prepare the TIE once it is granted.
What fee applies to arraigo social?
Form 790 code 052, section 2.3.1.[2]
How long must I have lived in Spain?
As a rule, at least 2 years of continuous stay, with absences not exceeding 90 days. Arraigo familiar requires no minimum stay.[1]

General information based on official sources, not legal advice. If your case is complicated, consult an independent lawyer of your choice or the Legal Guidance Service (SOJ) of your provincial Bar Association.[5]

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