On 20 May 2025, Spain introduced major changes to its immigration system. Royal Decree 1155/2024 has reformed residency rules, simplified processes, and created new pathways for legal status. The law applies to both individuals already living in Spain without legal status and those planning to move to Spain.
Family Reunification
Royal Decree 1155/2024 has expanded eligibility for family reunification. Non-EU family members of Spanish citizens can now apply for a dedicated 5-year residence and work authorisation with immediate work rights. Eligible relatives include spouses, registered partners, unregistered partners (with proof of a stable relationship such as 12 months of cohabitation or shared children), dependent children under the age of 26, and dependent parents or ascendants. The reform also simplifies financial and administrative requirements, reducing the paperwork needed to prove financial means and eligibility.
Student Pathways
Royal Decree 1155/2024 introduces changes for students pursuing higher education in Spain. Study permits now cover the full duration of academic programmes, removing the need for annual renewals. Students may work for up to 30 hours per week while studying. After graduation, transitioning to work permits is now easier, providing a clearer path to long-term residency and employment. However, restrictions apply to language course students. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, generally apply from outside Spain, and may stay for a maximum of two years (with one renewal). Language students cannot convert their residency into a work permit after completing their studies.
Major Reforms to the Arraigo System
There have been significant changes to Spain’s Arraigo system, which provides pathways to legal residency for individuals in irregular situations based on their ties to Spain. Notably, the continuous residence requirement has been reduced from three years to two years for most categories, facilitating quicker access to legal status.
Successful applicants receive immediate work authorization for both employment and self employment, eliminating previous waiting periods. The law delineates five distinct Arraigo pathways:
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Arraigo Social: Requires two years of continuous residence and proof of integration through family ties.
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Arraigo Sociolaboral: Demands two years of residence and a work contract of at least 20 hours per week.
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Arraigo Socioformativo: Allows individuals to engage in vocational training programs while permitting up to 30 hours of work weekly.
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Arraigo Familiar: Available to family members of Spanish or EU citizens, including spouses, registered partners, unregistered partners with proof of a stable relationship, dependent children under 26, and dependent ascendants. This pathway offers a five-year residence and work permit without prior residence requirements.
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Arraigo de Segunda Oportunidad: Targets individuals who held a residence permit within the last two years but lost legal status for reasons not related to public safety, order, or health.
Golden Visa Termination
The Golden Visa programme in Spain, which allowed non-EU nationals to obtain residency through significant financial investment, has officially ended. Previously, applicants could gain residency by investing at least €500,000 in real estate. However, under Organic Law 1/2025, the programme was terminated on 3 April 2025. Individuals who already hold a Golden Visa may continue to renew their permits, provided they maintain the qualifying investment, but no new applications are being accepted.
How 360 Business Law Can Assist
Navigating Spain’s updated residency rules requires expert legal guidance. At 360 Business Law, our international immigration specialists offer tailored advice to individuals and businesses managing cross border relocations. Whether you are reuniting with family, pursuing studies, applying through Arraigo pathways our team provides the strategic support you need. Contact us today to ensure full compliance with Spain’s evolving immigration landscape.