Major migration reform in Spain

Spain is preparing to introduce a significant migration reform, which is expected to be approved after November, 12. This news is of particular interest to digital nomads and those who seek to obtain permanent residence in Spain after five years of residence. The basic requirements for obtaining permanent residence will remain virtually unchanged.

Key conditions for long-term residence (larga EU)

Basic requirements:

• A five-year period of continuous stay in Spain. Allows temporary absences of up to six months in a row (the total period should not exceed 10 months in 5 years) or up to 18 months in case of business trips. Objective circumstances, such as force majeure, will not affect the right of long-term stay.
• The need to have sufficient financial resources to support yourself and your family. This item is similar to the requirements for a family reunification program.
• Availability of health insurance covering all risks provided by the Spanish health system.

Applying for permanent residence

The application can be submitted 60 days before the expiration of the current residence permit or within 90 days after its expiration without penalties. The identity card will be updated after 5 years for those who are under 30 years old, and after 10 years for those who are older.

In order to obtain «larga duración» – national long-term residence – financial and insurance requirements are excluded.

For comparison, the similar experiences of migration reforms in other EU countries show that Spain follows the general trend of simplifying the process of obtaining permanent residence. For example, Germany simplified the design of the Blue Card in 2019, reducing barriers for specialists.

Opinion Leaders

According to Maria Gonzalez, an expert in the field of migration legislation, «The Spanish reform is aimed at simplifying the procedure for attracting qualified workers, including on the basis of the Digital Nomad Visa program in Spain. Ultimately, this can contribute to the economic growth of the country». An analysis of European Union data shows that an increase in the number of long-term residents usually leads to an increase in GDP per capita by 1-2 % five years after the introduction of such reforms.