Living in Spain without papers? You can start a new legal chapter in your life. Here’s how to apply for arraigo sociolaboral and change your situation.
“I’ve been in Spain for two years, working wherever I can, without a contract, without documents, unable to visit my family. I want to start over legally, but I don’t know where to begin…”
We hear this every day. And if that resonates with you, stay with us.
Because this could be your starting point.
What is arraigo sociolaboral in Spain?
Arraigo sociolaboral is a residence and work permit in Spain that you can obtain even if you are undocumented, have never had a legal job contract, or are living alone in the country.
It is a legal pathway for foreign nationals who:
- Have lived in Spain for at least two years
- Have no criminal record
- Have received a formal job offer
You don’t need to be married, have children, or family ties. What matters is your presence in Spain, your effort, and your willingness to move forward.
Once approved, you’ll receive:
- A 1-year residence and work permit
- The chance to switch to another type of residence or begin the path to Spanish citizenship
It’s a new beginning—legal, stable, and closer than you think.
It doesn’t matter if you’ve worked without a contract or entered through the border irregularly. What matters is that you’re here, you have a job opportunity, and you’re ready to do things right.
Requirements to Apply for arraigo sociolaboral in Spain
To apply for this type of regularization, you must meet three key conditions set by the Spanish government:
1. Two years living in Spain
You must prove uninterrupted residence. Valid documents include:
- Historical registration certificate (empadronamiento histórico)
- Official documents from any Spanish public administration
2. No criminal record
In Spain and in any country you’ve lived in during the last 5 years:
- Criminal record certificates from all relevant countries, legalized/apostilled and translated into Spanish if necessary
3. A real job offer
An employer must offer you:
- At least 20 hours per week
- A salary meeting the legal minimum (SMI)
- A signed contract or written hiring commitment
Previous work experience is not required—just a serious company with legal capacity to hire.
Required Documents for the Application
To avoid delays or losing your opportunity, submit a complete file with these documents:
- Official form EX-10
- Valid, full passport
- Historical registration certificate (empadronamiento histórico)
- Signed employment contract (or pre-contract)
- Criminal background checks
- Proof of integration (courses, training, association involvement)
- Municipal report (if required in your city)
Where and How to Submit the Application for arraigo sociolaboral in Spain
You can apply in one of two ways:
- In person, by appointment at the Foreigners Office of your province
- Online, using a digital certificate
Once submitted:
- Your application will be reviewed
- If any documents are missing, you’ll be notified and given 15 days to correct them
- The administration has up to 3 months to respond. If no reply is given, it is considered a negative decision by administrative silence
That’s why submitting all documents correctly from the beginning is crucial to avoid delays or denials.
How Legal Allies Can Help You
At Legal Allies, we understand your concerns:
- You’re tired of waiting
- You don’t know who to trust
- You’re afraid to spend money and be disappointed
- You’re confused by the requirements and paperwork
To us, you are not just a case file.
You are a person, with a story, a dream, and the right to a new life with dignity.
That’s why we help you every step of the way:
- We check if you meet the requirements
- We organize all necessary documents
- We complete the forms and submit the application
- We keep you informed at every stage
And if your case isn’t viable, we’ll tell you upfront—so you won’t waste time or money.
Why This Matters
A correctly filed arraigo sociolaboral process opens the door to:
- Traveling
- Opening a bank account
- Renting a home
- Getting official employment contracts
- Accessing social aid and full healthcare
- Bringing your family to Spain
- And most importantly—living without fear, and beginning your path to Spanish citizenship
Ready to take the first step?
You are closer to legalizing your status than you think.
You’re not alone.
We’re here to help you change your immigration status in Spain through arraigo sociolaboral.
