The Social Integration Report (Informe de Integración Social) is a fundamental document in the process of regularizing foreigners in Spain. It is a key requirement for obtaining residency through Arraigo Social (Social Rooting) and the new Arraigo Socioformativo (Training Rooting), pathways that allow non-EU citizens to obtain a residence and work permit under exceptional circumstances. This report formally accredits the applicant’s integration into Spanish society.
Understanding what this report is, why it is necessary, and how to obtain it is crucial for those in an irregular situation seeking a path to legality. This guide breaks down the importance of this document and the steps for its issuance, based on Autonomous Community regulations, as its management varies across Spain.
What is the Social Integration Report?
The Social Integration Report is a certificate issued by the Autonomous Community or the Local Corporation (City Council/ Ayuntamiento) where the applicant resides. Its objective is to officially accredit the degree of integration of the foreigner into Spanish society.
Why It’s So Important
The importance of this report lies in the fact that it is a main requirement for Arraigo Social when the applicant does not prove family ties with a legal resident. Through this report, the Administration evaluates the applicant’s commitment to Spanish society, assessed through different facets:
- Knowledge of Official Languages: It assesses proficiency in Spanish (Castellano) and, if applicable, the co-official language of the Autonomous Community (e.g., Catalan, Basque).
- Participation in Activities: Consideration is given to participation in training programs, workshops, or recognized volunteer activities.
- Familiarity with the Environment: It evaluates familiarity with the Spanish social, economic, and cultural environment.
- Legal Validity: The report is valid for six months from the date of its issuance.
Requirements and Documents for Application
The requirements for requesting the Social Integration Report may vary slightly between Autonomous Communities (CC.AA.), but the most common requirements include:
Application Process and Deadlines
The process for obtaining the Social Integration Report begins at the Local Corporation (City Council/ Ayuntamiento) or the Autonomous Community body responsible for immigration matters.
- Submission and Documentation: The applicant submits the formal request along with the required documentation to the competent authority (usually the Department of Social Services or Immigration).
- Personal Interview: In many regions, the applicant is called for a personal interview. This is where their knowledge of the language, their social commitment, and their familiarity with the environment will be assessed.
- Report Issuance: Once the application is evaluated and the interview is conducted, the Administration has a maximum period of 30 calendar days to issue the report.
- Action on Delay: If the report is not issued within 30 days, the applicant can present proof to the Oficina de Extranjería that the application process for the report has been initiated, and the Oficina de Extranjería may then claim the report directly.
The Social Integration Report is a key piece in the Arraigo Social puzzle. It demonstrates the foreigner’s effort and commitment to becoming a part of Spanish society. With the correct documentation and a well-planned process, this report is the key that opens the door to legal residency and a new life in Spain.
If you need personalized assistance, at Entre Trámites we offer management and advisory services on immigration matters. You can contact us 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.
