Are you the parent of a Spanish child or the child of a Spanish national? You may be eligible to obtain legal residency in Spain without waiting years or leaving the country.
At Sterna Abogados, we help Americans like you legalize their status quickly and safely through the family roots procedure known as Arraigo Familiar.
What Is Family Roots Residency (Arraigo Familiar)?
Arraigo Familiar is a type of residency permit granted under exceptional circumstances based on close family ties with Spanish citizens..
It allows non-EU foreigners to live legally in Spain without needing a prior visa or minimum time of residence.
✅ No need to leave Spain
✅ No minimum residency required
✅ Can be requested during a tourist stay
Who Can Apply for Family Roots Residency?
You may qualify if:
- You are the parent of a minor Spanish national (regardless of whether you live in the same household)
- You are the child of a Spanish citizen by origin
- You are not a citizen or close relative of an EU national
- You have no criminal record in Spain or your country of origin
Required Documents
If You’re the Parent of a Spanish Child:
- Birth certificate of your child (proving Spanish nationality)
- Proof of shared address or parental obligations
- Your criminal record certificate (legalized and translated if necessary)
f You’re the Child of a Spanish National:
- Your birth certificate (legalized and translated)
- Birth certificate of your Spanish parent (from the Spanish Civil Registry)
- Your criminal record certificate (legalized and translated)
Good News: No Residency Period Required
Unlike most immigration procedures, Arraigo Familiar does not require prior legal stay in Spain. You can apply while on a tourist visa or even after overstaying.
This is a powerful legal solution for Americans who have family connections to Spain and want to reside legally without navigating complex visa processes.
Why Choose Sterna Abogados?
We are a bilingual team of immigration lawyers in Madrid with over 10 years of experience helping American clients navigate the Spanish immigration system.
We provide:
✅ Personalized legal consultation
✅ Document collection and preparation
✅ Certified translations
✅ Full application submission and legal follow-up
✅ Representation before immigration offices
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Let’s determine if you qualify for Arraigo Familiar and get started with your application today.
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Start your legal residency process in Spain with a trusted immigration law firm.