Key Changes in Spain's Immigration Law Reform for 2025

In November 2024, the Spanish Government approved a significant reform of the Immigration Law Regulation, aiming to improve the integration of migrants in three fundamental areas: work, training, and family. This reform will come into effect on May 20, 2025, and seeks to adapt the regulatory framework to Spain's current social and economic realities.

Key Changes in the Reform

1. New Modalities of "Arraigo" (Rootedness)

The reform introduces five modalities of "arraigo" to facilitate the regularization of foreign individuals:

• Social Arraigo: For those who can demonstrate family ties in Spain or justify their integration through a report from the corresponding autonomous community.

• Sociolaboral Arraigo: For individuals with a job contract that meets the conditions of initial residence and work authorizations for employees.

• Training Arraigo: Allows regularization through the completion of specific training courses.

• Family Arraigo: Facilitates residence for relatives of Spanish citizens or legal residents.

• Labor Arraigo: For individuals who can prove a work relationship of at least six months.

These new categories aim to expand regularization opportunities and adapt to the diverse situations of migrants in Spain.

2. Improvements in Family Reunification

The new regulation broadens family reunification scenarios, including unregistered partners and increasing the maximum age for dependent children. Additionally, a specific permit has been created for relatives of Spanish citizens, simplifying the procedures and promoting family unity.

3. Relaxation of Residence Requirements

The required period of residence to qualify for "arraigo" has been reduced from three to two years. Additionally, the conditions for obtaining work permits have been eased, allowing both self-employment and salaried employment from the start. Initial permits will now be valid for one year, except for the family permit, which will be valid for five years.

4. Creation of a Specific Title for Visas

The reform establishes a specific section for visas, clarifying the structure of authorizations, requirements, and procedures, making it easier for applicants to understand and comply with regulations.

5. Authorization for Temporary Workers

A new authorization for temporary workers has been introduced, ensuring better working conditions and facilitating employment in seasonal sectors such as agriculture and tourism.

Expected Impact

It is estimated that this reform could benefit approximately 300,000 people annually until 2027, facilitating their labor and social integration in Spain. However, some migrant rights organizations have voiced concerns, arguing that certain aspects could represent a setback in guarantees for immigrants.

Spain's 2025 Immigration Law reform represents a significant governmental effort to adapt the regulatory framework to the country's social and economic needs. It is crucial for migrants and their families to stay informed about these changes to take advantage of new opportunities for regularization and integration.