Spain begins a historic process. The government has launched an Extraordinary Regularization to normalize the situation of hundreds of thousands of people who are already part of our society. At Molinares Abogados, as experts in immigration law, we have prepared this comprehensive guide so that you don't miss out on this unique opportunity.
1. Who can apply for regularization?
The new Royal Decree establishes very clear groups of beneficiaries. You will be eligible if you find yourself in any of the following situations:
- Stay in Spain before December 31, 2025: You must prove that you were already in Spain before that date.
- Minimum stay: Proof of continuous residence for at least 5 months.
- Asylum seekers: If you submitted your application for international protection before December 31, 2025, this process is for you.
- Minor children: The simultaneous regularization of minor children present in Spain is envisaged.
2. The Permit: What rights will you obtain?
This is not limited residency; it is an open door to full legal integration:
- Work authorization: You will be able to work for someone else or on your own in any sector and throughout the country from day one.
- Validity: The initial permit will be valid for 1 year (with the aim of then moving on to ordinary provisions of the Regulations).
- Protection for minors: For children, authorization is required for 5 years
3. Critical Requirement: Criminal Record
Residence will not be granted to anyone who poses a threat to public order or has a criminal record.
ALERT FROM MOLINARES ABOGADOS! To meet this requirement, you need a criminal record certificate from your country of origin with an apostille or legalized. This process usually takes months.
4. How can you prove that you have been in Spain for some time?
The key to success is test of permanence. Any public or private document will do, but consistency is vital. Prepare:
- Registration (historical).
- Medical appointments, emergency reports, or medical history.
- Bills in your name (electricity, water, internet) or bank transactions at local businesses.
- Rental agreements or money transfer receipts.
- Schooling for children or transportation tickets.
5. Emergency Calendar: Dates you can't forget
- January–March 2026: Document preparation and apostille phase.
- Early April 2026: Opening of the system for submitting applications.
- June 30, 2026: CLOSING – No further applications will be accepted after this date.
Checklist: Are you ready for April 1?
Before the system opens, ensure you have:
- Valid passport.
- Permanence tests ordered month by month.
- Proof of asylum application (if applicable).
- Apostilled criminal record certificate.
- School/health documentation for your minor children.
