At Lexnova Lawyers, we are aware that immigration procedures in Spain can be complex and overwhelming. Whether you are coming to work, study, reunite with your family or regularise your situation, having the right support is essential to comply with the regulations and avoid complications. In this article, we will explain the most important aspects of immigration in Spain, the types of residence permits, and how our law firm can help you manage all the legal procedures efficiently.
The legal framework for foreigners in Spain
The Immigration Law (Organic Law 4/2000) regulates the rights and freedoms of foreigners in Spain and the procedures for obtaining residence permits, visas, family reunification and other procedures. This legislation is designed to manage immigration in an orderly manner, guaranteeing the security and rights of foreign nationals wishing to settle legally in the country.
The Spanish system offers a wide variety of options for obtaining legal status, depending on the purpose of your stay, whether for work, family, academic or even investment purposes.
Types of residence permits
Temporary residence permit
The temporary residence permit allows a foreigner to reside in Spain for a period of more than 90 days and less than five years. Within this category, there are different types depending on the reason for the stay:
- Non-profit residence: This is granted to those who wish to reside in Spain without carrying out work or professional activities. It is ideal for people who have sufficient financial means to support themselves during their stay.
- Residence for work: If you come to Spain with a job offer, you can apply for this permit. There are permits for both employees (employed by a company) and self-employed workers.
- Residence for students: If your objective is to study in Spain, you will need a student visa that will allow you to reside for the duration of your studies, with the possibility of doing work experience.
Long-term residence permit
After residing legally in Spain for five years, you can apply for long-term residence, which gives you virtually the same rights as a Spanish citizen, such as working and residing anywhere in the country. You also have the option of applying for EU long-term residence, which allows you to reside and work in other EU countries under certain conditions.
Family reunification
If you are already resident in Spain and wish to bring your family members, you can opt for family reunification. This process allows immediate family members (spouse, minor children and dependent parents) to join you legally in the country.
It is important to meet the economic solvency requirements and to have adequate housing to accommodate your family members. Our team of lawyers at Lexnova will guide you through the whole process, ensuring that the procedures are carried out correctly and without delays.
Arraigo
Arraigo is a special way to regularise the situation of those foreigners who are already in Spain in an irregular situation, but who meet certain requirements:
- Social: For those who have lived in Spain for at least three years and have a job offer or family ties in the country.
- Labour: This can be applied for after having worked in Spain for at least six months and having resided in the country for at least two years.
- Family: Applies to those who are parents of a Spanish minor or are married to a Spanish citizen.
How to apply for Spanish nationality?
Spanish nationality grants full rights as a citizen and allows you to reside, work and move freely within the European Union. There are several ways to obtain nationality:
- By residence: After residing legally in Spain for a certain period of time, which varies depending on your country of origin (generally 10 years, although for citizens of Latin American countries, Portugal, Andorra, the Philippines and Equatorial Guinea the period is 2 years).
- By marriage: If you are married to a Spanish citizen, you can apply for nationality after one year of legal and continuous residence in Spain.
- By descent (ius sanguinis): If your parents are Spanish, you can apply for nationality by descent.
- By option: Aimed at those who were not born in Spain but have the right to nationality as children or grandchildren of Spaniards.
At Lexnova Lawyers, we manage the nationality procedures, from the preparation of the application to the monitoring of the deadlines and requirements. We ensure that the process is transparent and hassle-free.
Visas and other immigration procedures
Work visa
If you are a foreigner who has received a job offer in Spain, you will need a work visa. This visa will allow you to reside in the country while you carry out a professional activity. To obtain it, it is essential that the company that hires you initiates the application process, and once approved, you can apply for your visa from your country of origin.
Investor Visa (Golden Visa)
The Golden Visa is a special permit for those who wish to invest in Spain. To qualify, it is necessary to make a significant investment, such as the purchase of real estate worth at least €500,000, the acquisition of shares in Spanish companies, or investment in business projects that contribute to the economic development of the country.
This type of visa offers numerous advantages, such as the possibility of working in Spain and the right of residence for the investor and his or her family. It is also one of the fastest routes to permanent residence.
Residence permit renewals
One of the key steps to maintaining your legal status in Spain is to renew your residence permit on time. Renewal must be applied for before the current permit expires, and it is essential to meet the requirements and provide the necessary documentation. At Lexnova Lawyers, we help you to manage the renewals and inform you about the deadlines and requirements to avoid problems with the immigration authorities.
Why choose Lexnova Lawyers to manage your immigration procedures?
Specialisation and experience
Our team of lawyers at Lexnova is highly specialised in immigration and migration law. We have extensive experience in resolving complex cases, from visa and residence permit applications to nationality proceedings.
Personalised attention
We know that each situation is unique, which is why we offer a completely personalised service. We analyse your case in detail, providing you with legal advice tailored to your immigration needs and objectives.
Comprehensive advice
At Lexnova Lawyers, we do not only take care of immigration procedures. We also provide you with advice in other areas that may be relevant to your situation, such as labour, tax or family law, ensuring that you have the necessary support at all times.
Speedy problem solving
Migratory processes can be complicated and, on occasions, inconveniences arise. At Lexnova, we work proactively to resolve any obstacles that may arise, always with the aim of obtaining a favourable outcome for our clients.
Conclusion
Managing your immigration procedures in Spain can be a complex process, but at Lexnova Lawyers we are here to help you. From obtaining residence permits to applying for Spanish nationality, we offer expert legal advice and a personalised approach to ensure that every step is clear and straightforward.
If you need assistance with any immigration-related issue, do not hesitate to contact us. At Lexnova, we will make your immigration process easier and more effective.