Discover in this complete guide the differences, requirements, and benefits of social and employment-based rooting in Spain in 2025. We explain step-by-step how to regularize your immigration status. Brought to you by Visal Immigration Lawyers.

If you're a foreign national who has been living in Spain in an irregular situation, you may have heard about the different types of "arraigo" (rooting) as a way to obtain legal residency. In this updated 2025 article, we explain in clear, professional, and approachable language the differences between social and employment-based rooting, the requirements for each, and how to determine which one fits your personal, family, and work situation. At the end of this article, we’ll also answer frequently asked questions and guide you on how to book a consultation with one of our expert lawyers if you need personalized assistance.

Many immigrants ask themselves: should I apply for social rooting or employment-based rooting? But the truth is, this is not a matter of free choice. Spanish immigration law outlines specific requirements for each procedure. Therefore, your application must align with the pathway that best fits your personal circumstances.

Employment-based rooting is designed for those who can prove a work relationship in Spain and have lived in the country for at least two years. This route has gained popularity since the reform of the immigration regulation (Royal Decree 1155/2024) because it's now easier to legalize your status if you have a job offer. You need to prove two years of stay in Spain, have no criminal record in your country or in Spain, and present a valid job offer (the contract can be relatively simple, such as in hospitality, cleaning, logistics, or domestic work).

Another advantage of employment-based rooting is that it no longer requires the regional integration report, which simplifies the process. Additionally, this permit allows you to work without limitations, both as an employee and self-employed. If you have a company willing to hire you, this is undoubtedly the best option.

On the other hand, social rooting remains a valid path for those who don’t have a job offer. You can apply if you’ve been living in Spain for at least three years, have no criminal record, and can prove:

• Family ties with legal residents (e.g., parent, child, or spouse with a NIE).

• Or sufficient personal economic means to support yourself.

In both scenarios, you may also be required to obtain a regional integration report, which adds time and bureaucracy to the process.

If you live with a legal resident family member or have stable financial income (such as a small business, remittances, or savings), social rooting could be your way forward.

--> BOOG AN APPOINTMENT NOW WITH ONE OF OUR LAWYERS AND ANSWER ALL YOUR DOUBTS HERE

There’s also the option of social rooting with a job contract, which is quite similar to employment-based rooting. If you have both family ties and a job offer, you may decide which route is easier based on the documentation and your specific case.

If you don’t have a job offer, family ties, or financial means, the best alternative might be the training-based rooting (arraigo para la formación). This path requires a commitment to completing an officially recognized course and obtaining the regional integration report. The residence granted allows you to work part-time (up to 30 hours/week) and only as an employee.

At Visal Immigration Lawyers, we help you analyze your unique situation to determine the most suitable option. Each case is different, and choosing the wrong rooting pathway can result in a denied application and months of wasted time.

Many of our clients ask: “Which one is easier: social or employment-based rooting?” The answer is: it depends on your situation. If you have a contract and have lived here for two years, employment-based rooting is fast, straightforward, and less bureaucratic. If you don’t have a contract but do have family or income, social rooting is a safe and effective path.

For example, we’ve helped many clients who previously worked informally regularize their status by proving past work relationships. Others obtained social rooting by living with a legal resident parent or demonstrating enough savings. What matters most is preparing the documentation correctly from the beginning.

A well-prepared application includes:

• Historic census registration proving your time in Spain.

• Full passport with stamps and travel records.

• Integration report (if required by your region).

• Employment contract (for employment-based rooting).

• Documents proving family ties or financial support.

• Criminal record certificate, duly legalized and translated.

Remember: time spent in Spain as an asylum seeker does not count toward the two or three years required. Nor do short visits or tourist stays. During your consultation with our team, we’ll review all documents with you.

We also answer frequent questions about registration, changing provinces, which documents to include, and more. At Visal Immigration, we’ve successfully processed dozens of rooting applications in Barcelona and other parts of Spain. We stay in close contact with immigration offices and are up to date with their practices.

Book a personalized consultation with one of our immigration lawyers now to assess your case:

--> BOOG AN APPOINTMENT NOW WITH ONE OF OUR LAWYERS AND ANSWER ALL YOUR DOUBTS HERE

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long do I need to have lived in Spain to apply for social rooting? You must prove at least three continuous years of residence. This is mainly demonstrated through historical registration with the local town hall, plus supporting documents like bank records, remittances, or medical appointments. Time spent as an asylum seeker does not count.

2. Can I apply for employment-based rooting with a part-time contract? Yes, current regulations don’t require a full-time position or minimum salary. However, the job offer must be real, signed, and from a company that meets legal and financial requirements. The contract must clearly show work conditions and the company's legitimacy.

3. How long does it take to get a resolution on a rooting application? It depends on your province, but usually between 3 and 6 months. In larger cities like Madrid or Barcelona, it can take longer. Applications must be submitted at your local Foreigners Office, and follow-up is key.

4. Can I apply for rooting if I have a criminal record? No. All rooting procedures require you to have no criminal record in Spain or your home country. If you do, you’ll need to cancel or rehabilitate those records before applying.

5. Can I apply without a lawyer? Yes, but it’s not advisable. Many applications are rejected due to poorly prepared documents or missing legal details. At Visal Immigration, we guide you step by step to maximize your chances of success from the very beginning.

If you're considering legalizing your status in Spain and aren't sure whether to apply for social, employment-based, or training-based rooting, contact us. Our team will evaluate your case in detail, review your documents, and guide you through the process.

Send us a message via WhatsApp at 618 702 253 or book your consultation directly at:

--> BOOG AN APPOINTMENT NOW WITH ONE OF OUR LAWYERS AND ANSWER ALL YOUR DOUBTS HERE

At Visal Immigration Lawyers, we are expert immigration lawyers and have helped hundreds of foreigners obtain legal residence in Spain. Don’t risk your application—let a professional team assist you.

--> BOOG AN APPOINTMENT NOW WITH ONE OF OUR LAWYERS AND ANSWER ALL YOUR DOUBTS HERE