The Arraigo Social process is one of the most common pathways for individuals living in Spain without legal documentation to obtain residency. This process, designed to regularize your status, focuses on proving your ties to Spain and demonstrating integration into Spanish society.
What is Arraigo Social?
The Arraigo Social is a residency permit specifically for those who meet the following key requirements:
- Continuous Residence: You must have lived in Spain for at least three years without leaving the country for extended periods.
- Clean Criminal Record: Applicants need a clear criminal history in both their country of origin and Spain.
- Good Conduct: Authorities assess applicants’ adherence to Spanish laws and societal norms.
Proving Social Integration
Demonstrating integration into Spanish society is a critical component of the Arraigo Social application. This is achieved through:
- The Interview Process: During the application, authorities will interview you to assess your social integration. Questions typically focus on your life in Spain, your activities, and your connections within the community.
- Documentation: Evidence supporting your application can include:
- Bank statements showing regular activity.
- Medical certificates.
- Utility bills or rent payments.
- Transportation pass receipts (recargas de abono de transporte).
One indispensable requirement is completing the “Know Your Laws” Course (Conoce Tus Leyes). This course is designed to familiarize applicants with Spanish legal and cultural norms. After being waived during the COVID-19 pandemic, it has been reinstated as a mandatory prerequisite to obtaining the Informe de Arraigo Social (Social Roots Report).
Additional Documentation Requirements
Beyond proving social integration, other documents are essential to completing your application:
- Criminal Record Certificate: Obtain this document from your country of origin, ensuring it is no older than three months at the time of submission.
- The certificate must be translated into Spanish and apostilled, where applicable.
- Proof of Residence: Evidence such as utility bills, bank statements, or other official documents proving your three years of uninterrupted residence in Spain.
How Much Does Arraigo Social Cost?
Applicants must pay specific fees during the process, including:
- €30.60 for the Informe de Arraigo Social.
- €38.28 for the administrative fee of the Arraigo Social procedure.
- €16.08 for issuing the residence card (tarjeta de residencia).
Why Choose the Arraigo Social Process?
The Arraigo Social provides a viable and practical option for undocumented individuals who have built their lives in Spain. By emphasizing your integration into Spanish society and presenting thorough documentation, you can secure a residence permit that allows you to stay legally and work in Spain.
A Simple Step Toward Legal Residency in Spain
The Arraigo Social process is not just about formalizing your residency; it’s also a reflection of your connection to Spanish society. By meeting the requirements, completing the necessary steps, and providing comprehensive documentation, you can successfully navigate the process and establish yourself legally in Spain.
This guide is a roadmap for those who wish to turn their time in Spain into a long-term opportunity. Whether you’ve lived here for years or are just learning about the Arraigo Social, this path offers hope for a more stable and secure future.