Before and After: What the New Immigration Regulation Changes in Spain

Since April 2024, Spain has implemented the updated Reglamento de Extranjería — the legal framework governing the stay and legalization of foreign nationals.
This new regulation aims to adapt Spain’s immigration policy to the country’s current economic and social realities.

Key changes:

Simplified procedures for students and graduates.
Students can now combine studies and work under more flexible conditions, and graduates can switch to a residence permit with the right to work without needing a prior job offer.

New opportunities for self-employed individuals and digital nomads.
The regulation clarifies the requirements for residence permits for freelancers and remote workers, introducing lower income thresholds and a simpler application process.

Expanded humanitarian and family-based provisions.
New mechanisms strengthen family protection, especially for those with children, and introduce new forms of humanitarian residence — including transitional rules for Ukrainian citizens under temporary protection.

Arraigo made easier.
The process for obtaining residence based on social, family, or employment ties is now more flexible, with electronic filing and broader proof options for social integration.

What does this mean for you?
If you already live in Spain or are planning to move, the new regulation opens up more legal paths to regularization.
It is particularly relevant for students, entrepreneurs, professionals, freelancers, and Ukrainians under protection.

Contact us to find out how the new regulation applies to your specific case.