The root is a way for foreign nationals in an irregular situation to regularize their stay in Spain, and the recent reform of the Immigration Regulations brings great news for those seeking to regularize their situation: the second chance “arraigo.” This new permit has been specifically designed to offer a solution to people who, after having lived and worked in the country, fell into an irregular situation. This is established by Royal Decree 1155/2024, which approves the regulations of the Organic Law 4/2000 on the rights and freedoms of foreigners in Spain and their social integration.

At Adlanter, we know that this new modality can mark a turning point in many people’s lives. That’s why we explain in detail what the second chance “arraigo” is, who it is aimed at, and how you can benefit from this measure.

 

 

What is the Second Chance Root?

In the words of the legislator, the second chance “arraigo” was created for those who were holders of a residence permit but, for various reasons, were unable to renew their residence authorization. It is a solution for those foreign nationals who:

  • Have resided continuously in Spain for at least two years.
  • Have worked legally for a minimum of six months but were unable to renew their residence permit.
  • Are currently in an irregular situation.

The objective is to facilitate the social and labor integration of these individuals, granting them the opportunity to regain their stability in Spain.

 

Who can apply for the Second Chance Root?

This modality of “arraigo” is mainly aimed at two profiles:

1. People who lost their previous residence

  • This group includes those who, after contributing legally to Social Security (as employees or self-employed) for at least six months, were unable to renew their residence permit.
  • These individuals must, as stated in Article 127 of the Royal Decree, have been holders of a residence permit (not granted for exceptional circumstances) within the two years immediately preceding the second chance “arraigo” application.

2. Asylum seekers in irregular situation

  • Those who previously applied for asylum and had their application denied, leaving them in an irregular situation, as long as they worked legally while holding the “red card” (a document granted to those awaiting the resolution of their international protection application).
  • It is important to note that now, with the second chance “arraigo,” the months worked under this condition will be valid to regularize their situation.

 

Other requirements to apply for Arraigo

To apply for this permit, you must meet the following essential requirements: be in an irregular situation at the time of the application, have resided continuously in Spain for at least two years, and have contributed to Social Security for a minimum of six months.

Additionally, the absence of criminal records is a key requirement for both profiles, as included in Royal Decree 1155/2024.

However, specific criteria are also established based on the applicant’s work conditions:

  • Part-time work with family responsibilities: Having worked for six months with a minimum of 20 hours per week, provided that there are dependent people in charge, such as minors or individuals with disabilities.
  • Part-time work without family responsibilities: Having worked for nine months with an average weekly working time of more than 20 hours.
  • Reduced working hours: Having worked for one year with a weekly working time of at least 15 hours.

For self-employed workers, contributing to Social Security for at least six months is required. It is important to note that those who have previously been beneficiaries of a residence permit under exceptional circumstances (arraigo) will not be eligible for this modality. Additionally, it is mandatory to pay the corresponding application fees.

 

Advantages of the Second Chance Root

Opting for the second chance “arraigo” offers significant benefits:

  • You recover your residence permit, allowing you to live and work legally in Spain.
  • Flexibility in the work contribution requirements, adapted to different work schedules.
  • A clear and straightforward way to regularize your situation without needing to return to your home country.

 

When does it take effect?

The second chance “arraigo,” along with other changes from 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 there are still several months before this modality becomes available, at Adlanter, we can help you now.

 

How can we help you at Adlanter?

At Adlanter, we understand that every case is unique, and 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 regularizing your status as simple as possible.

Our services include:

  • Free initial evaluation: We analyze your situation and determine if you meet the requirements for the second chance “arraigo.”
  • Complete preparation of the application: We help you gather and submit all the necessary documentation.
  • Strategic advice: We design the best strategy for your case, considering the new opportunities provided by the reform.
  • Management and follow-up: We submit your application and provide continuous follow-up to ensure everything progresses smoothly.

 

✅ Don’t wait to regularize your status

If you believe you may be eligible for the second chance “arraigo”, don’t wait any longer. Even though this modality will be available from May 2025, you can start 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, fast, and successful. We are here to help you take the next step toward your stability in Spain!

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