ATTENTION! More than 500,000 people will be able to regularize their status in Spain: here's how
New 2026 Regularization of Foreign Nationals in Spain: how to get a permit if you've been in the country for more than 5 months
What is the new 2026 extraordinary regularization?
Spain has approved a new regularization pathway based on exceptional circumstances that will allow thousands of foreign nationals in an irregular situation to obtain a one-year temporary residence and work permit, if they meet certain requirements.
This measure will be available for a limited time between April and June 2026, and seeks to recognize the reality of those who already live in the country, contribute to society and need a safe pathway to fully integrate.
Who can apply?
Any foreign national who meets all of the following requirements can apply:
Have been in Spain before December 31, 2025.
Have stayed at least 5 continuous months in the country at the time of applying. This can be proven with municipal registration (empadronamiento), plane tickets, bills, money transfers, medical appointments or rental agreements, among other documents.
Have no relevant criminal record in Spain or in the countries where you have lived during the last five years.
Not pose a risk to public order, public security or public health.
Be in a situation of vulnerability. Anyone in an irregular situation will be considered vulnerable, although vulnerability may also be certified by social and third-sector organizations registered in the Registry of Immigration Collaborators (Registro de Colaboradores de Extranjería).
What do you get with this permit?
Those whose applications are admitted for processing will immediately obtain:
- A provisional authorization to work and live anywhere in Spain, in any sector and city.
- Once the application is approved, they will obtain a 1-year residence permit on grounds of exceptional circumstances, which can be modified or renewed under the regulations in force.
- The application will also suspend any expulsion (deportation) or return proceedings that are underway.
What if I have children or family in Spain?
This regularization also covers families:
- Minor children or children with disabilities can apply for residence at the same time as the applicant, even if they do not meet the length-of-stay or financial means requirements.
- Parents and other ascendants who depend on the applicant are also included.
- In many cases, the permit for minors will be valid for 5 years.
What documents must be submitted?
Although the full list has not yet been officially published, based on the Royal Decree and experience with similar processes, the following will be required:
- Proof of entry into Spain before December 31, 2025.
- Documents proving a minimum stay of 5 months.
- Municipal registration, bills, contracts, medical appointments or other documents proving residence.
- Criminal record certificate or, if it cannot be obtained, a sworn statement (declaración responsable).
- Application form and payment of the administrative fee.
If you are claiming vulnerability, a report from an accredited organization.
What is the deadline to apply?
The deadline is limited:
Applications can be submitted from April until June 30, 2026.
This process is exceptional; it is not a permanent measure.
Where can I apply?
Applications can be submitted through:
- An online form provided by the government.
- Immigration Offices (Oficinas de Extranjería) or offices specifically set up for this procedure.
It has been confirmed that you will not need to submit documents the government already has, which speeds up the process.
What if I have an asylum application in progress?
Good news:
People who applied for international protection (asylum) before December 31, 2025 will also be able to benefit from this regularization, provided they meet the requirements above.
How is this regularization different from previous ones?
Unlike processes such as arraigo (residence based on ties to Spain), this measure:
- Does not require two or three years of residence, only 5 months.
- Does not require an employment contract or family ties.
- Treats being in an irregular situation, in itself, as vulnerability.
Grants immediate provisional residence and work authorization from the moment the application is admitted for processing.
Where can I get free advice?
At Gestionamos Tus Trámites, we help people in an irregular situation every day to prepare their applications safely, quickly and without mistakes.
- We advise you on your documents.
- We check whether you meet the requirements.
- We support you throughout the entire process.
Book your free consultation now and take the first step toward legal residence in Spain
Government of Spain – Draft Royal Decree amending Royal Decree 1155/2024 of December 30 on temporary residence permits for exceptional circumstances (2026 Extraordinary Regularization). Internal draft for consultation. January 2026.
Once you've applied and your application has been admitted for processing, you can work until your permit is granted.
This permit is valid for one year, and when it is close to expiring you can modify or extend it.
VERY IMPORTANT! You must apply before June 30, 2026.
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ATTENTION! More than 500,000 people will be able to regularize their status in Spain: here's how
Spain has approved a new regularization route based on exceptional circumstances that will allow thousands of foreign nationals in an irregular situation to obtain a one-year temporary residence and work permit, provided they meet certain requirements.
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