Spain is a primary destination for many individuals seeking new opportunities for residence and work, both from within and outside the European Union. With recent developments in immigration policies, understanding the official procedures and forms has become more crucial than ever.
This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the latest updates related to the regularization of migrants (Arraigo) in Spain, focusing on the exceptional procedures for 2026 and the legal amendments for 2025, in addition to clarifying the necessary official forms.
The Importance of Official Forms in the Immigration Process
Official forms are the cornerstone of any administrative procedure related to immigration. They ensure the standardization of applications, facilitate data processing by authorities, and provide a clear legal framework for applicants. Filling out these forms correctly and accurately is of utmost importance to avoid delays or rejection of applications.
Exceptional Regularization Procedure for Migrants 2026
The Spanish government has announced the entry into force of a new exceptional procedure for the regularization of undocumented migrants starting from April 16, 2026, following the publication of the Royal Decree in the Official Gazette [1]. This decision aims to regulate the legal status of approximately half a million migrants living in Spain, granting them the opportunity to obtain legal residence and work permits under specific conditions and strict deadlines.
Key Eligibility Requirements:
- Residency in Spain: Proof of residency in Spain before December 31, 2025, with continuous residency of at least five months. This can be proven through various documents such as a certificate of residence, utility bills (water and electricity), or medical and administrative documents confirming actual settlement within Spanish territory [1].
- Criminal Record: Applicants must not have serious criminal records and are required to provide a certificate from their country of origin confirming their criminal status. If this document cannot be obtained, authorities grant a specific grace period [1].
Benefits of the Procedure:
This procedure grants beneficiaries a comprehensive residence and work permit throughout Spanish territory, whether for employment or self-employment, and in various professional sectors. This permit is temporary for one year, with the possibility of later transitioning to the ordinary legal residency system stipulated in the Aliens Law after the period expires [1].
Application Methods and Deadlines:
Those wishing to benefit from this regularization can submit their applications electronically starting from April 16, 2026, with in-person submission becoming available from the 20th of the same month. June 30, 2026, has been set as the final deadline for submitting applications, and authorities confirm that these deadlines will not be extended [1].
Amendments to the Spanish Immigration Law 2025 (Arraigo)
New amendments to the Spanish immigration regulations came into force on May 20, 2025, under Royal Decree 1155/2024. These amendments aim to simplify procedures and improve the integration of migrants into the Spanish labor market and society [2].
Key Changes in Arraigo Types:
- Arraigo Sociolaboral (Social and Labor Rooting): This new type combines the requirements for social and labor rooting, making it easier for migrants who have resided in Spain for a certain period and worked irregularly to obtain a residence and work permit [2].
- Arraigo Socioformativo (Social and Training Rooting): Developed from “Arraigo para la formación,” this type now allows migrants to work up to 20 hours per week while pursuing training courses. The range of available training courses has also been expanded to include different levels, and applicants who have already started training courses can benefit from it [2].
- Arraigo Familiar (Family Rooting): Conditions related to this type have been improved, especially concerning the European citizen family card (Form EX-19) and facilitating residency for family members of Spanish citizens [2].
- Arraigo de Segunda Oportunidad (Second Chance Rooting): This is a new type aimed at helping individuals who have previously lost their residence permits to regain their legal status in Spain [2].
Guide to Official Immigration Forms in Spain
Below is a detailed table of the most important official forms you may need for immigration and residency procedures in Spain, with a brief description of each and direct download links. It is advisable to read the description carefully to choose the appropriate form for your situation and ensure you download the correct version.
| Form | Description | Type | Download Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Modelo EX00 | Application form for long-term stay authorization | Standard (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX00 | Application form for long-term stay authorization | Editable (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX01 | Application form for non-lucrative temporary residence authorization | Standard (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX01 | Application form for non-lucrative temporary residence authorization | Editable (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX02 | Application form for temporary residence authorization for family reunification | Standard (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX02 | Application form for temporary residence authorization for family reunification | Editable (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX03 | Application form for temporary residence and work authorization for others or work authorization for others | Standard (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX03 | Application form for temporary residence and work authorization for others or work authorization for others | Editable (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX04 | Application form for residence authorization for internships | Standard (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX04 | Application form for residence authorization for internships | Editable (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX06 | Application form for residence and work authorization for seasonal activities | Standard (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX06 | Application form for residence and work authorization for seasonal activities | Editable (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX07 | Application form for temporary residence and self-employment authorization | Standard (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX07 | Application form for temporary residence and self-employment authorization | Editable (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX09 | Application form for temporary residence authorization with exception of work authorization | Standard (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX09 | Application form for temporary residence authorization with exception of work authorization | Editable (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX10 | Application form for residence authorization due to exceptional circumstances | Standard (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX10 | Application form for residence authorization due to exceptional circumstances | Editable (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX11 | Application form for long-term residence authorization or long-term EU residence | Standard (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX11 | Application form for long-term residence authorization or long-term EU residence | Editable (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX13 | Application form for return authorization | Standard (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX13 | Application form for return authorization | Editable (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX15 | Application for Foreigner Identification Number (NIE) and Certificates | Standard (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX15 | Application for Foreigner Identification Number (NIE) and Certificates | Editable (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX16 | Application form for registration certificate or travel document | Standard (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX16 | Application form for registration certificate or travel document | Editable (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX17 | Application form for Foreigner Identity Card (TIE) | Standard (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX17 | Application form for Foreigner Identity Card (TIE) | Editable (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX18 | Application form for registration in the Central Register of Foreigners, EU citizen residence | Standard (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX18 | Application form for registration in the Central Register of Foreigners, EU citizen residence | Editable (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX19 | Application form for residence card for family member of EU citizen | Standard (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX19 | Application form for residence card for family member of EU citizen | Editable (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX20 | Residence document Article 50 TUE for UK nationals | Standard (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX20 | Residence document Article 50 TUE for UK nationals | Editable (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX21 | Residence document Article 50 TUE for 3rd country family members of UK nationals | Standard (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX21 | Residence document Article 50 TUE for 3rd country family members of UK nationals | Editable (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX22 | Application form for permit Article 50 TUE for cross-border workers from the United Kingdom | Standard (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX22 | Application form for permit Article 50 TUE for cross-border workers from the United Kingdom | Editable (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX23 | Application form for card (art 184 of the Withdrawal Agreement) | Standard (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX23 | Application form for card (art 184 of the Withdrawal Agreement) | Editable (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX24 | Application form for temporary residence authorization for relatives of Spanish nationals | Standard (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX24 | Application form for temporary residence authorization for relatives of Spanish nationals | Editable (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX25 | Application form for temporary residence and temporary displacement of foreign minors | Standard (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX25 | Application form for temporary residence and temporary displacement of foreign minors | Editable (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX26 | Application form for modification of residence or stay authorization | Standard (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX26 | Application form for modification of residence or stay authorization | Editable (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX28 | Application form for the application of DT 2º RD 1155-2024 | Standard (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX28 | Application form for the application of DT 2º RD 1155-2024 | Editable (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX29 | Application form for extension of short-term stay | Standard (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX29 | Application form for extension of short-term stay | Editable (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX30 | Application form for the application of DT 5º RD 1155-2024 | Standard (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX30 | Application form for the application of DT 5º RD 1155-2024 | Editable (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX31 | Application form for the application of DA20ª RD1155-2024 | Standard (PDF) | Download |
| Modelo EX32 | Application form for the application of DA21ª RD1155-2024 | Standard (PDF) | Download |
Read Also: Spain Announces Historic Legalization of Half a Million Undocumented Residents
Important Tips for Submitting Applications
- Accuracy and Clarity: Ensure all required fields are filled accurately and clearly. Any error or missing information may lead to delays in processing your application or its rejection.
- Supporting Documents: Prepare all required documents in advance and ensure they are valid and correctly translated if necessary.
- Backups: Keep copies of all forms and documents you submit for your own records.
- Deadlines: Adhere to application deadlines, as some permits have specific validity periods.
- Legal Consultation: In complex cases, it may be beneficial to consult a lawyer specializing in immigration law to ensure compliance with all legal requirements.
Conclusion
Understanding immigration and residency forms in Spain, along with keeping up-to-date with the latest legal amendments, is a fundamental step towards achieving your goals in this country. We hope this guide has provided you with the necessary information to begin your journey. Always remember that accuracy and good preparation are key to success in any administrative procedure.
References
[1] Spain officially opens the door for exceptional regularization of migrants starting April 16 – Rue20
[2] Immigration Regulation Reform 2026: What you need to know – Balcells Group
[3] General Models – Migrations – Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security and Migrations
