Why Was the Immigration Law Modified?
Spain’s new immigration regulation, effective 20 May 2025, responds to pressing social and economic needs:
- Ageing population and shortages in key sectors such as agriculture, hospitality, and care services.
- Lengthy waiting times for procedures like labour or social arraigo and work permits.
- Alignment with EU mobility frameworks, ensuring consistency with European standards.
Main Changes Introduced in the 2025 Regulation
Easier access to arraigo laboral and arraigo social
- Residence period reduced from 3 years to 2 years.
- Introduction of the second-chance arraigo for those who lost a permit in the last 2 years.
Compatibility of work and studies
- International students can now work up to 30 hours per week without an additional permit.
- After completing their studies, they can directly apply for residence and work permits.
Digitalised and faster procedures
- Applications for residence and work permits can be filed online.
- Public officials are receiving specialised training to apply the new rules efficiently.
Improved socio-training residence (arraigo socioformativo)
- Replaces the old training-based residence.
- Requires 2 years of residence and official training.
- Grants the right to work from the start.
Who Is Affected by the New Immigration Regulation?
- People in irregular situations seeking legal residence through arraigo.
- Foreign students wishing to combine work and study.
- Employers needing to legally hire foreign workers.
- Families applying for reunification or residence renewals.
- NGOs, legal advisors, and gestorías supporting foreigners in Spain.
How to Adapt to the New Rules
- Keep all documents updated: registration, contracts, diplomas, etc.
- Check official information at the Ministry of Inclusion and Migration.
- Use online platforms to avoid long delays.
- Seek professional advice to meet requirements correctly for each case.
Expected Impact
- Shorter waiting times for immigration procedures.
- Increase in legal hiring of foreign workers.
- Better social and labour integration of migrants.
- Reduction of undeclared work in vulnerable sectors.
If you need tailored support with the new immigration regulation, at Entre Trámites we offer specialised services for residence permits, family reunification, and international mobility. You can contact us here, schedule a free consultation, or message us on WhatsApp.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work with a student permit under the new law?
Yes. From May 2025, students may work up to 30 hours weekly without a separate permit.
How long must I live in Spain to apply for social arraigo?
Only 2 years of continuous residence and registration are now required.
Can I handle immigration procedures online?
Yes. Many applications can be submitted electronically since May 2025.
The new immigration regulation marks a turning point in Spanish migration policy. With more flexible rules for students, streamlined arraigo options, and faster digitalised procedures, Spain is opening clearer and fairer pathways to legal residence and work. For those affected, staying informed and relying on professional support is key to taking full advantage of these changes.
You can also contact us directly through this contact Form for us to call you, or if you prefer, you can schedule a free consultation or write to us on WhatsApp. We’re here to make the process easier for you!.
