First, a note

The extraordinary regularisation window closed on 30 June 2026 (more information, in Spanish). Today the options are the ordinary routes.

The three most common routes

  • You have lived in Spain for two years in a row: arraigo. There are five types (based on work, on family or social integration, on training, on having held a permit before, and on family) and all of them allow you to work. Arraigo guide (in Spanish).

  • You want to study: the Student Stay Permit. From within Spain, only if you are already here legally and will take higher education. It must be filed at least two months before your legal stay ends, and with a 90-day tourist stay the margin is very short.

  • You have a partner, children or parents with residence papers or Spanish nationality: there are specific routes, depending on the relationship and your relative’s situation.

Which one suits you

It depends on your starting point and on what you can prove. Before paying tuition or gathering documents, it is worth having someone look at your case: choosing wrong costs time and money.

Not sure which one is yours?

At Díaz Extranjería we assess your situation and tell you the most suitable option. If you want to study, we can also help you find a suitable school, review your enrolment and prepare the application. Tell us about your case and we will contact you today.

Not sure which permit fits you? See residence permits in Spain.