Introduction

The 2026 extraordinary regularization has generated thousands of questions and doubts among potential beneficiaries. This frequently asked questions (FAQ) guide compiles and answers the most common doubts, organized by categories for easy consultation.

All answers are updated according to the Royal Decree published in the BOE on January 27, 2026 and reviewed by specialized immigration lawyers.

Questions Index by Category

1. Eligibility and basic requirements (questions 1-15)
2. Documentation and procedures (questions 16-30)
3. Deadlines and process (questions 31-40)
4. Special situations (questions 41-50)
5. After approval (questions 51-58)

CATEGORY 1: Eligibility and Basic Requirements

1. Who can apply for this regularization?

Foreign nationals who meet ALL of these requirements:

• Present in Spain before December 31, 2025
• Continuously residing in Spain for at least 5 months before December 31, 2025
• No criminal record in Spain or in countries of previous residence (last 5 years)
• No entry ban to Spain
• Identified with a valid passport or equivalent document

2. Is there an age limit?

Applicants must be over 18 years old. Minors can only be included in their parents' application but cannot apply independently.

3. Can I apply if I entered Spain in November 2025?

You must have entered BEFORE December 31, 2025 and remained continuously for 5 months. If you entered in August 2025 or earlier, you meet the requirement.

4. What does "continuous residence" mean?

It means uninterrupted physical presence in Spain for at least 5 months. Temporary absences of up to 90 cumulative days are allowed during that period, as long as they do not break continuity.

5. Can I apply with very old criminal records?

It depends. If the criminal records are more than 5 years old and have been canceled under Spanish law, they should NOT be an obstacle. If within the last 5 years, they generally ARE an obstacle.

Recommendation: Consult a specialized lawyer if you have criminal records, as there are exceptions depending on the severity of the offense.

6. Do I need a work contract to apply?

NO. This extraordinary regularization does NOT require an employment contract or job offer. It is a residence-based regularization, not a labor-based one.

7. Do I need a certain income level?

NO for the initial application. However, for future renewals you may be asked to demonstrate sufficient financial means.

8. Can I apply if I have a deportation order?

It depends on the status of the deportation order:

• If the order is final and enforceable: you probably CANNOT apply
• If it is under appeal or suspended: it may be possible, consult a lawyer
• If the order is old and has expired: you probably CAN apply

9. Can I apply with an expired passport?

You must have a valid passport at the time of application. If expired, renew it first. In exceptional cases, alternative documents (consular certificate, safe-conduct) can be used if your country does not renew passports.

10. Can I apply with a pending asylum claim?

Technically yes, but it can be complicated. If your asylum application is being processed, you could apply for this regularization simultaneously, but consult a specialized lawyer about the implications.

11. Is this open to people of any nationality?

Yes, the extraordinary regularization is open to citizens of ANY country (except EU/EEA/Switzerland citizens who already have freedom of movement).

12. Can I apply if I have a NIE?

Having a NIE is neither a requirement nor an obstacle. The NIE is simply an identification number. What matters is meeting the residence and criminal record requirements.

13. Can I apply if I had previous residence permits that expired?

Yes. Having had previous permits that expired is not an obstacle, as long as you now meet the requirements.

14. Can I apply if I entered with a tourist visa that I let expire?

Yes, as long as you meet the continuous residence and criminal record requirements. The form of entry is not relevant for this regularization.

15. Is there a maximum quota of applications that will be approved?

NO official maximum quota. All applications meeting the requirements should be approved. An estimated 500,000 people are potentially eligible.

CATEGORY 2: Documentation and Procedures

16. What are the minimum mandatory documents?

The minimum mandatory documents are:

1. Official form (EX-10 or EX-11)
2. Valid complete passport (copy and original)
3. 4 recent passport-size photos
4. Historical empadronamiento certificate
5. Spanish criminal record certificate
6. Criminal record certificate from country of origin (apostilled and translated)
7. Fee payment receipt (model 790, code 052)

17. Is it mandatory to provide additional documents beyond empadronamiento?

Officially not mandatory, but in practice it is highly recommended (almost required). Empadronamiento alone is usually not sufficient. Provide utility bills, contracts, medical records, etc.

18. What if I am not registered (empadronado)?

Register immediately. If you don't have 5-month historical empadronamiento, you'll need to prove residence with a solid combination of other official documents (contracts, bills, medical records, bank statements).

19. How long do criminal record certificates from my country take?

It depends on the country:

• Venezuela: 8-12 weeks
• Colombia: 3-4 weeks
• Morocco: 4-8 weeks
• Ecuador: 4-6 weeks
• Peru: 2-4 weeks
• Argentina: 2-3 weeks

Tip: Request them in February or March 2026 to have them ready before April 1.

20. What is the apostille and where do I get it?

The Hague Apostille is a stamp certifying the authenticity of an official document for international use. It is obtained in your country of origin, at the competent office (usually the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or Justice).

21. Can I use a non-sworn translator for my documents?

NO. Only translations by official sworn translators registered with the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs are valid.

22. How much do sworn translations cost?

Sworn translators charge by page or document:

• Passport: EUR 30-40
• Birth certificate: EUR 25-35
• Criminal record certificate: EUR 30-40
• Marriage certificate: EUR 30-40

Estimated total: EUR 80-150 for basic documents.

23. Do utility bills need to be in my name?

Ideally yes, but if you live with family or share an apartment, you can provide bills in someone else's name along with a letter from the account holder confirming you live there.

24. Are digital invoices valid?

Digital invoices (PDFs sent by the company via email) are valid. Print them and include them in your documentation.

25. How many residence proofs should I provide beyond empadronamiento?

No official minimum, but at least 3-5 different documents covering different months of the 5-month period is recommended. From different categories: housing, medical, banking, educational.

26. What if my country doesn't issue criminal records for residents abroad?

Submit:

• A sworn declaration before a notary explaining the impossibility
• Official documentation from the consulate or competent authority confirming the certificate cannot be obtained

27. Do I need criminal records from ALL countries I've lived in?

Yes, from all countries where you resided more than 6 months in the last 5 years.

28. Can I submit the application online?

It depends on your province's immigration office. Some allow electronic submission with a digital certificate, but most require an in-person appointment. Check with your local office.

29. What if I'm missing a document on appointment day?

The officer may:

• NOT admit your application if an essential document is missing
• Admit it conditionally and issue a correction requirement (10 days to provide the missing document)

Recommendation: Do not go to your appointment without complete documentation.

30. Can I use ImmigraFlow to verify my documentation before submitting?

Yes. ImmigraFlow offers an automatic AI documentation checker that reviews:

• Whether all mandatory documents are present
• Whether they are within their validity period
• Whether foreign documents are apostilled
• Whether translations are by official sworn translators
• Whether there are inconsistencies between documents

The free plan includes this feature.

CATEGORY 3: Deadlines and Process

31. What is the application deadline?

From April 1 to June 30, 2026. Only 3 months.

32. Can I request an appointment before April 1?

It depends on each immigration office. Some open the appointment system a few days early, others exactly on April 1. Check with your local office or be alert from late March.

33. How long does it take to process the application?

The maximum legal period is 3 months from submission. In practice, it may be faster (1-2 months) or take the full 3 months.

34. What happens if I don't receive a response in 3 months?

If 3 months pass without response, the application is understood to be rejected by administrative silence (negative silence).

35. Can I work while waiting for the decision?

Yes. Once the application is submitted, you receive a receipt authorizing you to work legally during the processing period.

36. Can I travel outside Spain while waiting?

Not recommended. Even with the receipt, leaving Spain could complicate your legal situation. If travel is essential, consult a specialized lawyer first.

37. What is a correction requirement?

A notification from the administration indicating missing or incorrect documentation. You are given a deadline (usually 10 days) to provide or correct what is needed. If you don't comply, your application will be rejected.

38. How will I know if I've received a correction requirement?

You will be notified by:

• Certified postal mail to your registered address
• Electronic notification (if you have a digital certificate and are registered for notifications)
• You can check your file status on the electronic platform with your file number

Tip: Use ImmigraFlow to receive automatic alerts about changes to your file.

39. Can I appeal if my application is denied?

Yes. You can file an administrative appeal with the same body that denied it (1-month deadline) or a contentious-administrative appeal before the courts (2-month deadline).

40. How much does the entire process cost?

Estimated costs:

• Official fees: EUR 26-30
• Criminal record certificates: EUR 20-80 (country of origin)
• Apostille: EUR 10-50
• Sworn translations: EUR 80-150
• Photos: EUR 5-10
• Legal advice (optional): EUR 300-600

Total: between EUR 140-320 if done on your own, or EUR 450-900 with full legal advice.

CATEGORY 4: Special Situations

41. I'm Venezuelan with an expired passport. Can I apply?

Yes. Spain accepts Venezuelan passports expired up to 5 years, provided they are accompanied by an extension issued by the Venezuelan consulate in Spain.

42. I have minor children born in Spain. Does this help?

Yes, having minor children born or enrolled in school in Spain is a very positive factor demonstrating family ties and significantly increases approval chances.

43. I am pregnant. Does this help?

It can be a positive factor, especially with advanced pregnancy documented by medical records. It indicates rootedness and need for stability.

44. I am married to a Spanish citizen. Can I apply?

Yes, and this is very favorable. Being married to a Spanish citizen and living together is a highly positive factor. Make sure to provide:

• Marriage certificate
• Family book
• Spouse's DNI
• Joint empadronamiento certificate

45. My partner and I are not married but live together. Does it count?

A registered domestic partnership (pareja de hecho) can count as family ties. You should provide:

• Domestic partnership certificate (if officially registered)
• Proof of cohabitation: joint empadronamiento, bills in both names, joint rental contract

46. I have a recognized disability. Does this help?

It can be a favorable factor, especially if it demonstrates need for stability and continuity in Spain for treatment or support. Provide a disability certificate and medical documentation.

47. I worked in Spain without a permit. Will this hurt me?

NO, it will NOT hurt you for this regularization. In fact, proving you have worked (even without a permit) can help demonstrate your ties to Spain. Provide any work evidence: payslips, contracts (even verbal with written testimony), bank transfers as payment for work.

48. I have a child with a disability. Does this matter?

Yes, it is a very favorable factor demonstrating need for stability and rootedness. Provide:

• Child's disability certificate
• Medical reports
• Treatment certificates from Spanish centers

49. I am a victim of gender-based violence. Are there special considerations?

Yes. Victims of gender-based violence have special protection. You should provide:

• Judicial protection order
• Social services report
• Police report

This can even exempt you from certain requirements. Urgently consult a specialized lawyer.

50. I am over 65. Are there any special provisions?

There are no specific provisions for advanced age, but age can be considered as a rootedness factor if you can demonstrate strong family ties in Spain (children, grandchildren who are legal residents).

CATEGORY 5: After Approval

51. How long does the residence authorization last?

The initial authorization is for 1 year.

52. Can I renew it after the first year?

Yes, it can be renewed for 2-year periods if you meet renewal requirements (generally demonstrating sufficient financial means and no criminal record).

53. When can I apply for permanent residence?

After 5 years of continuous legal residence in Spain, you can apply for long-term residence authorization (permanent residence).

54. Can I work with the authorization I receive?

Yes. The residence and work authorization for exceptional circumstances allows you to work as an employee or self-employed person throughout Spain.

55. Can I bring my family (family reunification)?

After 1 year of legal residence, you can apply for family reunification of:

• Spouse or domestic partner
• Minor children or dependent adult children
• Dependent parents (in certain cases)

You will need to meet financial and adequate housing requirements.

56. Can I travel outside Spain with this authorization?

Yes. Keep in mind:

• Your TIE (Foreigner Identity Card) serves as a travel document within the Schengen area together with your passport
• You cannot be absent for more than 6 months in a year, or you will lose your residence

57. When can I apply for Spanish nationality?

After 10 years of legal residence in Spain (or less if you are from an Ibero-American country, Andorra, Philippines, Equatorial Guinea, Portugal, or are of Sephardic Jewish descent).

58. What if I lose my TIE?

You must request a duplicate immediately:

• Report the loss at a police station
• Request an appointment at the Immigration Office for a TIE duplicate
• Pay the corresponding fee (model 790, code 012, EUR 10.71)

Practical Cases Solved

Case 1: Maria, Venezuelan, expired passport, two children in Spain

Situation: Maria arrived in Spain in June 2024. Her passport expired in 2023. She has two minor children enrolled in school in Spain.

Solution:

• She can use her expired passport with a Venezuelan consular extension
• Her family ties (children in school) are very strong
• She must provide: school enrollment certificates, family book, apostilled birth certificates
• Probability of approval: VERY HIGH

Case 2: Ahmed, Moroccan, no empadronamiento, worked without contract

Situation: Ahmed arrived in May 2024. He did not register (empadronar) until 2026. He worked without a contract in construction.

Solution:

• Must register immediately
• Compensate for lack of historical empadronamiento with other documents: medical records, bank statements, mobile phone bills
• Provide any work evidence: payslips (even informal), bank transfers received, employer testimony
• Probability of approval: MEDIUM (depends on strength of alternative evidence)

Case 3: Elena, Colombian, has an old deportation order

Situation: Elena has a deportation order from 2019 that was never enforced. She has been in Spain since 2018.

Solution:

• Urgently consult a specialized lawyer
• Verify whether the order has expired (deportation orders expire after a certain time)
• If expired, she can apply normally
• If not expired, a lawyer will need to handle the situation
• Probability of approval: VARIABLE (requires detailed legal analysis)

Resources and Useful Tools

ImmigraFlow: Your Complete Regularization Assistant

Free plan (self-service):

• AI eligibility checker (2 minutes)
• Personalized document checklist
• Immigrabot: 24/7 AI assistant to answer your questions
• Step-by-step guides in 6 languages
• Automatic documentation verifier
• Document expiry alerts

Review (€99), Assistance (€199), or Full Service (€299):

• Everything in the free plan
• Complete documentation review by a specialized lawyer
• Application form preparation and review
• Direct communication with your lawyer via platform chat
• File tracking with automatic alerts
• Priority support for correction requirements
• End-to-end process management

Other Official Resources

• Migration electronic headquarters: extranjeria.inclusion.gob.es
• Phone 060: immigration information (service in multiple languages)
• Ministry of Justice portal: for criminal record certificates
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs: list of official sworn translators

Conclusion: Your Question Not Listed Here?

If your question does not appear in this guide, you can:

1. Use ImmigraFlow's Immigrabot (free): the AI assistant is trained on all immigration regulations and can answer very specific questions in seconds
2. Consult a specialized lawyer: especially if your situation is complex (criminal records, deportation orders, complicated family situations)
3. Contact your immigration office: although response times tend to be long

Remember: Every case is unique. This guide provides general information, but for personalized advice it is always best to consult a specialized professional.

Best of luck with your regularization process!