Arraigo socioformativo (socio-educational roots residence)

Description

This is a temporary residence authorization on exceptional grounds that allows foreign nationals in an irregular situation in Spain to regularize their status by completing officially recognized training (formación reglada). It authorizes the holder to work from the moment it is granted and is designed to promote social and labor market integration.

Advantages

• Allows foreign nationals in an irregular situation in Spain to regularize their immigration status.
• Authorizes work from the moment it is granted.
• Opens access to accredited training programs and certificados de profesionalidad.

Who can apply? (including family members)

• Any adult foreign national in an irregular situation in Spain who can prove at least two years of continuous presence may apply.
• The applicant is always the person concerned, who must commit to completing specific training.
• This authorization does not allow family members to be included as dependents in the initial application.

Requirements

• Continuous presence in Spain for at least 2 years.
• No criminal record in Spain or in previous countries of residence during the last 5 years.
• A written commitment to complete officially recognized training.
• Not banned from entering Spain or listed as inadmissible in Schengen Area countries.
• Proof of enrollment or admission in an accepted training program.

Required documents

Application process

1. 1

   Gathering the documents

   Gather the required documents showing that all requirements are met.

2. 2

   Filing the application

   File the application with the competent Oficina de Extranjería (immigration office) in the province of residence.

3. 3

   Decision and notification

   The authorities have a maximum of 3 months to decide.

4. 4

   Card issuance

   Once the authorization is granted, the applicant must apply for the Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero (TIE, foreigner identity card).

Duration and renewal

• The initial authorization is valid for 12 months.
• It can be extended once for a further 12 months if the training has not finished and is being actively pursued.
• When the training ends, there is no need to apply for a new work authorization: the right to work already applies from the time the arraigo socioformativo is granted.

FAQ

Applicable law

1. Real Decreto 557/2011, de 20 de abril, en su redacción vigente tras el Real Decreto 1155/2024, de 18 de diciembre
2. Ley Orgánica 4/2000, de 11 de enero, sobre derechos y libertades de los extranjeros en España