EU regime · Royal Decree 240/2007
Permanent residence under the EU regime
A procedure for EU citizens and family members under the EU regime who, after meeting the relevant requirements, can acquire a right of permanent residence in Spain.
Is this the right option for you?
It is designed for citizens of the EU, the EEA or Switzerland who have been living in Spain for years, and for family members of EU citizens who have held the residence card for family members of EU citizens and maintain the family relationship.
We review the years of residence, continuity, any absences and the family situation to determine access to the relevant permanent regime.
Absences from Spain can break the continuity of residence: it is worth reviewing them before applying.
Main requirements
These are the essential requirements. The specific documents may vary depending on your nationality, your personal situation and changes in the law.
Five years of residence
Having lived legally in Spain continuously for five years.
Continuity
Absences from Spain must not exceed the limits set by the regulations.
Early access
In certain cases, such as retirement or permanent incapacity, it can be acquired before five years.
Family members of EU citizens
Having held the residence card for family members of EU citizens for the five years and maintaining the family relationship with the EU citizen who gave rise to the right.
EU citizens
They obtain a certificate of the right to permanent residence.
Family members
They obtain a permanent residence card for family members of EU citizens.
How can we help?
- Initial eligibility review.
- Immigration strategy.
- Personalized checklist.
- Legal review of your documents.
- Preparing and filing your application.
- Follow-up with the authorities.
- Responding to requests for documents where applicable.
- Assistance with the steps after approval.
Usual documents
- Valid passport or ID document.
- Registration certificate or residence card for family members of EU citizens.
- Proof of five years of continuous residence.
- Documents proving the family relationship, where applicable.
The final documents will depend on the applicant’s personal circumstances, nationality and the applicable procedure. After the initial review you will receive a personalized checklist.
Related procedures
- EU citizen registration certificateThe mandatory registration when you take up residence in Spain.See procedure
- Family member of an EU citizenThe regime for family members of EU, EEA or Swiss citizens.See procedure
- Spanish citizenship by residenceOnce you meet the required period of residence.See procedure
Tell us about your situation
We will review your case and explain which route may fit your circumstances.
The information on this page is general in nature and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration requirements may vary depending on the applicant’s personal circumstances and the legislation in force at the time of the application.