Spain’s New Immigration Law took effect on May 20, 2025. The law streamlines the criteria for residence permits and incorporate past legal instructions. However, it won’t affect work permits for Highly Qualified Professionals and intra-company transfers.
Spain’s immigration regulation is set out in two main legal instruments: 14/2013 Law and the New Immigration Law.
- 14/2013 Law encompasses work and residence permits for
- Highly Qualified Professionals
- Intra-company transfers
- Digital Nomads
The 14/2013 Law has not changed. The procedures and requirements for all the immigration processes under the umbrella of 14/2013 Law remain the same.
- The New Immigration Law encompasses:
- General scheme work and residence permits (other than highly qualified, intra-company and digital nomads).
- Student visas.
- Residence permits for dependent family members.
- “Arraigo” (residence permits through family and socioeconomic roots).
Erickson Insights & Analysis
Spain’s Immigration Law changes for 2025 has varying impacts.
- For employers and employees, the labor rights, particularly or seasonal workers, are strengthened.
- For family-based visa holders, the law provides easier and more flexible family reunification and a new 5-year temporary residence permit for family members of Spanish citizens.
- For students, the law extends to cover the duration of a student’s studies without renewals and allows students to work 40 hours per week from the moment of admission.
Erickson Immigration Group will continue monitoring developments and sharing updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or if you have case-specific questions.
The post Spain’s New Immigration Law Takes Effect May 20, 2025 appeared first on Erickson Immigration Group.
