Since 20 May 2025, Instruction SEM 1/2025 has been in force, which establishes the common criteria for the processing of new residence permits for exceptional circumstances for reasons of roots, as set out in Royal Decree 1155/2024.
This is a significant evolution of the system of arraigo in Spain, which now incorporates figures more in line with current social and labour realities. These are the new officially recognised modalities:
🔹 Second Chance Arraigo
Aimed at foreigners who have been in Spain for at least 5 years and commit to participate in inclusion, employment or training itineraries. This allows the regularisation of those who have made an effort to integrate, although without family ties or a work contract.
🔹 Socio-occupational roots
For people who have worked in Spain and can prove a previous employment relationship, although without a current contract. It requires a minimum length of stay and reliable proof of the activity carried out, as well as a commitment to social integration.
🔹 Social Roots
This type continues to recognise personal or family ties established in Spain. An integration report issued by the social services is required, and in some cases, proof of community roots. Cohabitation with relatives or support networks remains key.
🔹 Socio-formative rootedness
It allows to obtain a residence permit if the applicant has been training in Spain and commits to continue his or her social and labour integration. It applies especially to young people and people who have completed regulated courses or professional certificates.
What are the financial requirements?
The new cases of "arraigo" also establish economic solvency criteria linked to the IPREM, differentiated according to the type of authorisation:
- Rootedness (general):
Applicant + family member: 100% + 100% IPREM - Family reunification:
Regrouper + Regrouped: 150% IPREM
👉 Each additional member: +50% IPREM
👉 For minors: 110% IPREM (parent + minor)
👉 Each additional child: +10% IPREM - Accompanied persons (minors/disabled):
👉 Family reunification scheme applies: 110% IPREM (parent + minor)
At Echeverría Farriols we already apply these new criteria in our immigration cases. We analyse your case and provide you with step-by-step guidance to choose the most favourable type of legal status and submit your application with guarantees.
📄 You can read the full text of the instruction here:👉 SEM Instruction 1/2025 (official PDF)
