Second-chance arraigo

For those who once held residence in Spain, lost it and have been living in the country for at least two years.

Second-chance arraigo

A new permit for anyone who once held a residence card in Spain and could not renew it because at that moment they did not meet the requirements: for example, after losing their job before completing the required period, or after divorcing an EU-citizen spouse without informing the Immigration Office.

It does not apply if the previous card was granted on exceptional grounds, such as arraigo; it does apply when the residence was for work, as the family member of an EU citizen or through another ordinary route, and was not withdrawn for serious reasons of public order, security or public health.

Who it is for

For those who once held a residence authorisation and were unable to renew it. For example:

Anyone who lost their job and no longer had the required contribution period.
Anyone who divorced their EU-citizen partner and did not inform the Immigration Office.
Anyone who did not meet the requirements at the time and whose card was extinguished.

Requirements

Having previously held a residence authorisation in Spain.
Proof of continuous residence in Spain for at least two years.
Not being in Spain as an applicant for international protection.
No criminal record in Spain or in the country of origin.
Not being subject to an entry ban.

Benefits

Live and work legally in Spain, as an employee or self-employed.
Access to health services, municipal registration and employment rights.
The possibility of family reunification in the future.
The possibility of applying for Spanish citizenship in time.

How the process works

GRAS International Mobility reviews and prepares the file, files the application online, with no appointments or travel, answers any official requests for further information and advises from the first consultation and throughout the process.

Frequently asked questions

A residence permit for foreign nationals who once held a card in Spain and lost it for social or employment reasons. It can be applied for with at least two years of continuous residence and no criminal record.
No. It only applies if the previous residence was not granted on exceptional grounds such as arraigo.
At least two years of continuous residence.
It cannot be applied for with a current criminal record.
It is not compulsory, but it can strengthen the application.
Yes, although professional advice is recommended to avoid mistakes.
The usual time limit is up to three months.
No. Continuous residence in Spain must be proven.
An appeal can be filed, although it is a more complex procedure.