Reform of the Immigration Regulation: key updates for migrants and businesses
- 11 July 2025
- Immigration, Uncategorized
On November 19, the Council of Ministers approved the reform of the Immigration Regulation, updating the legislation that has been in force since 2011. This new Regulation aims to align Spanish legislation with European Union directives by transposing pending directives and applying EU regulations.
The reform intends to simplify procedures, strengthen legal certainty, and expand the rights of migrants in Spain. It also includes measures to combat fraud and labor exploitation.
Below, we address the main questions about this reform.
What changes are there regarding residence and work permits?
The new regulation states that all initial permits will have a duration of one year. Renewals, on the other hand, will be extended to four years, providing greater stability both for migrants and the companies that employ them.
What new types of arraigo (roots residency) are included?
The regulation introduces five types of arraigo:
- Social arraigo.
- Socio-labor arraigo.
- Family arraigo.
- Socio-educational arraigo.
- Second chance arraigo.
The second chance arraigo is designed for people who have lost a previous residence permit. Additionally, the waiting period for arraigo procedures is reduced from three years to two years.
What are the new updates regarding family reunification?
The regulation expands the possibility to reunite not only direct family members but also extended family members, such as unregistered partners who can prove a stable relationship. It also raises the maximum age of reunited children to 26 years. However, the requirements to reunite ascendants have been tightened, establishing 80 years as the minimum age to consider them dependent.
Additionally, it includes the possibility to reunite children and parents of victims of trafficking, sexual or gender-based violence, thus broadening the concept of family reunification.
How does this reform affect international students?
The regulation specifies the valid studies required to obtain a student permit in Spain, as well as the authorized institutions to offer them. Additionally, it creates a Registry of Higher Education Institutions and Centers.
One of the most important updates is that family members of students will be able to apply for their permits directly in Spain, eliminating the need to complete this process from their country of origin.
How can I apply for my permit under the new Immigration Regulation?
At CINC, we offer specialized advice to help you understand these new regulations and manage your immigration procedures quickly and easily. If you have any questions or want to get started, don’t hesitate to contact the Immigration Department at CINC Asesoría:
