20 May 2026 · 5 min read

Arraigo Familiar: residency through close family in Spain

Arraigo Familiar grants residency on the basis of a close family tie to a Spanish citizen — most commonly the parent of a Spanish minor, but also certain spouses and relatives of Spaniards. Because it's tie-based, it often has no long residence requirement, which makes it one of the quickest routes when it applies.

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Who typically qualifies

  • Parents of a Spanish minor child who is in their care.
  • Spouses or registered partners of Spanish citizens, and certain other relatives, in defined circumstances.
  • No disqualifying criminal record.

Arraigo Familiar or the EU-family card?

If you're married to a Spaniard, you may qualify for both this and the Tarjeta de Familiar de Ciudadano de la UE (EX-19) — the EU-family card is frequently the stronger option (five-year card, immediate work rights). Arraigo Familiar shines for cases like the parent of a Spanish child. Pathway's free diagnostic works out which is better for you.

Parent of a Spanish-national child? Arraigo Familiar is usually your fastest, strongest route — and it doesn't depend on how long you've been here.

How to apply

Filed on the EX-10 form with proof of the family relationship (birth/marriage certificates, the child's Spanish documentation), padrón, passport and a clean-record certificate. Pathway pre-fills the form from your details.

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Frequently asked questions

I'm the parent of a Spanish child — can I get residency?+

Yes — Arraigo Familiar is designed for the parent of a Spanish minor in their care, and it typically has no long residence requirement. It's filed on the EX-10 form.

Arraigo Familiar or the EU-family card?+

If you're the spouse of a Spaniard, the EU-family card (EX-19) is often stronger. Arraigo Familiar is ideal for parents of a Spanish child. The diagnostic picks the better route for your situation.

Do I need years of residence first?+

Often not — because Arraigo Familiar is based on the family tie rather than time in Spain. Requirements vary by case, so confirm yours.

Related routes

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