Extraordinary regularization: how to request it and what you need

The BOE published this week the decree for the extraordinary regularization for immigrants. So from tomorrow, Thursday, April 16, it comes into force and the application period opens. The deadline is June 30. It is expected that more than half a million people who already live in Spain can obtain a one-year residence and work permit. You have been warned.

You have two ways to submit the application. The online option starts tomorrow: you enter the website of the Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security and Migrations and you need an electronic certificate — it can be yours or someone representing you. The in-person option requires an appointment, which can also be requested starting tomorrow online or by calling 060. However, in-person appointments begin on Monday the 20th. They are processed at Foreigners and Social Security offices (from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM) and at Post Offices in provincial capitals or cities with more than 50,000 inhabitants (from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM). The list of offices is published by the Ministry, so go ahead and check it.

Who can apply? Well, you must have been in Spain continuously for at least five months before the application and before January 1, 2025. It also counts if you requested asylum before that date. You must be of legal age, have no criminal record, pay a fee of €38.28, and not pose a public threat. Additionally, you must prove five months of residence with documents such as a rental contract or bills, and submit a passport or travel document (valid or expired). Watch out for the paperwork.

A key point: the criminal record certificate from your country. It is one of the biggest obstacles, I tell you now. If the country does not respond within a month, you can submit proof that you requested it and a sworn declaration. The Government will try to obtain it through diplomatic channels. But if it does not arrive within three months, they will ask you for it again. If you do not provide it within 15 days, they deny the authorization. Beware: even if you have a record, it can be canceled in Spain if you meet the requirements, but you must request it before the resolution. Don't leave it for later.

If you have family, you can include your spouse or partner and first-degree ascendants in the same application. For minor children or those with disabilities, there are special rules. Those born in Spain do not need to prove the first six months; the others only need five months of residence without requiring two years or a guarantee of means. If you request everything together, it is resolved at the same time. So plan it.

The administration has three months to respond. If you do not receive notice within that period, it is considered denied. The authorization gives you the right to reside and work from the moment you register it. To renew it later, you will move to the ordinary figures of the Immigration Regulations reformed in November. You already know it.

If you have difficulties with your appointment or procedure, write to us on Telegram: https://t.me/cita_extranjeria