After waiting for a long time, the migrants finally knew the start date of Spain’s new immigration rules. On November 20, 2024, the Spanish Government approved Royal Decree 1155/2024, introducing a new Regulation of the Immigration Law. Set to take effect on May 20, 2025, this reform aims to accelerate the regularization of migrants, facilitate labor integration, and address Spain’s demographic and economic challenges.
Furthermore, Spain’s new immigration regulations introduce significant changes to streamline migrant regularization and integration. However, its effectiveness will depend on the successful implementation of these measures and the ability to address remaining challenges regarding migrant rights and protections.
A key goal of the reform is to reduce bureaucracy and enhance legal security. The new regulation establishes a dedicated visa section, clarifying authorization schemes, requirements, and general procedures. It also eliminates duplications in the permit application and renewal processes, ensuring greater efficiency.
As the new policies take effect, their impact on Spain’s labor market, economy, and migrant communities will be closely observed. The key changes in the immigration regulations are as follows:
Shortened Residency Requirement for Rooting Permits
One of the most significant updates is the reduction in the required period of stay for different types of rooting (“arraigo”). Previously, migrants needed three years of residence in Spain; the new regulations lower this to two years.
This change is designed to help individuals in irregular administrative situations integrate into the labor market more quickly and effectively.
New and Revised Categories of Rooting
The regulation introduces and redefines several types of rooting permits to better address the diverse circumstances of migrants:
- Socio-laboral Rooting: A combination of previous social and labor rooting categories. Applicants must have a job offer or be self-employed, in addition to demonstrating two years of continuous residence in Spain.
- Second Chance Residence: Designed for individuals who previously held a residence permit, lost it, and have remained in Spain in an irregular situation for at least two years.
- Socio-formative Rooting: This residency type grants a work permit to migrants who commit to specific training programs that enhance their employability.
Facilitations for Asylum Seekers
For one year after the new regulation takes effect (May 20, 2025 – May 20, 2026), a transitional regime will apply to asylum seekers whose applications have been denied. Those who meet the requirements—such as having remained in Spain in an irregular situation for at least six months—may qualify for one of the new rooting modalities.
Encouraging Entrepreneurship and Employment
The reform also promotes entrepreneurship among migrants by streamlining requirements for self-employed workers from third countries. Additionally, hiring processes at the place of origin are simplified. Spain will grant four-year work permits that allow employees to work for up to nine months per year in high-demand sectors such as hospitality, transportation, and construction.
Expanded Family Reunification Policies
The regulation introduces more flexible family reunification criteria, including:
- Allowing children up to 26 years old to be considered dependents without proving financial dependence.
- Recognizing unregistered couples as eligible for family reunification, provided they can demonstrate stable cohabitation.