Second Chance Residency: Everything You Need to Know
Discover how the Second Chance Residency can help you regularize your status in Spain and seize this new opportunity to build your future.
The recent reform of the Immigration Regulations brings great news for those seeking to regularize their status in Spain: the Second Chance Residency Permit. This new permit is specifically designed to provide a solution for individuals who, after living and working in the country, have fallen into irregular status.
At Adlanter, we understand that this new modality can be a turning point in many people’s lives. That’s why we explain in detail what the Second Chance Residency Permit is, who it’s for, and how you can benefit from this measure.
What is the Second Chance Residency Permit?
The Second Chance Residency Permit is exactly that: a pathway for foreign nationals who, due to various circumstances, lost their residence permit in Spain to recover it and regularize their status.
This permit is designed for those who:
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- Have continuously lived in Spain for at least two years.
- Have legally worked for a minimum of six months but could not renew their residence permit.
- Are currently in irregular status.
The objective is to facilitate the social and labor integration of these individuals, granting them the opportunity to regain stability in Spain.
Who Can Apply for the Second Chance Residency Permit?
This residency modality is primarily aimed at two profiles:
1. Individuals Who Lost Their Previous Residency
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- This group includes those who, having legally contributed to Social Security (as employees or self-employed) for at least six months, could not renew their residence permit.
- These individuals, now in irregular status, can access the Second Chance Residency Permit provided they meet the basic requirements and have no criminal record.
2. Asylum Seekers in Irregular Status
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- Those who, under the temporary asylum red card, worked legally but could not qualify for labor residency due to their temporary status.
- Now, with the Second Chance Residency Permit, the months contributed to Social Security under this condition will be valid to regularize their status.
Requirements for the Second Chance Residency Permit
To apply for this permit, you must meet the following essential requirements:
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- Be in irregular status at the time of application.
- Have continuously resided in Spain for at least two years.
- Have contributed to Social Security for a minimum of six months.
However, specific situations are also considered based on labor conditions:
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- 6 months of part-time work (minimum 20 hours per week) if you have dependents (children or individuals with disabilities).
- 9 months of work with an average workweek of more than 20 hours.
- 1 year of work with at least 15 hours per week.
It’s important to note that self-employed individuals must contribute to Social Security for at least six months.
Other requirements include:
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- Not having previously held a residence permit for exceptional circumstances (residency by arraigo).
- Having no criminal record in Spain or your country of origin.
- Paying the corresponding fees for the procedure.
Advantages of the Second Chance Residency Permit
Choosing the Second Chance Residency Permit comes with significant benefits:
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- Recover your residence permit, allowing you to live and work legally in Spain.
- Flexibility in work contribution requirements, adapted to different types of work schedules.
- A clear and simple pathway to regularize your status without having to return to your country of origin.
When Does It Take Effect?
The Second Chance Residency Permit, along with other changes in the immigration reform, will take effect on May 20, 2025, six months after the official publication of the new Immigration Regulations in the BOE.
Although it will still be months before this modality is available, Adlanter can assist you now.
How Can Adlanter Help You?
At Adlanter, we understand that each case is unique and that a small mistake in the process can delay your application or even cause its denial. That’s why we offer a comprehensive service to make regularization as straightforward as possible.
Our services include:
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- Free initial assessment: We analyze your situation and determine if you meet the requirements for the Second Chance Residency Permit.
- Complete dossier preparation: We help you gather and submit all necessary documentation.
- Strategic advice: We design the best strategy for your case, considering the new opportunities offered by the reform.
- Management and follow-up: We submit your application and continuously monitor progress to ensure everything proceeds smoothly.
✅ Don’t Wait to Regularize
If you believe you may qualify for the Second Chance Residency Permit, don’t wait any longer. While this modality will be available starting in May 2025, you can begin preparing your case today.
📞 Schedule your free consultation with one of our immigration experts and start building your future in Spain. Click here for more information.
At Adlanter, we are your allies to make your regularization process clear, quick, and successful. We’re here to help you take the next step toward stability in Spain!