Have you been working in Spain without a legal contract for at least six months and living here continuously for two years?
You may qualify for legal residency through exceptional work-related circumstances, a process known as Arraigo Laboral.
At Sterna Abogados, we help undocumented workers legalize their status in Spain — even if the employment was irregular.
What Is Work Roots Residency (Arraigo Laboral)?
Arraigo Laboral is a legal process that allows non-EU foreigners to apply for residency in Spain based on having worked irregularly for at least six months.
It’s a path designed to protect labor rights and recognize economic integration.
✅ Legalize your status through work history
✅ No job offer required
✅ No employer sponsorship needed
✅ Get full work authorization
Who Can Apply for Arraigo Laboral?
You may qualify if:
- You’ve lived continuously in Spain for at least 2 years (no absences over 90 days)
- You’ve worked illegally or without papers for at least 6 months
- You have no criminal record in Spain or in your home country
This process is often started after:
- You report your situation to Labor Authorities (Labor Inspection or Social Security)
- A company employing you is inspected and sanctioned
- You obtain a court resolution confirming your past employment
- You are not a citizen or family member of an EU or EEA country
Required Proof of Work
o prove your work relationship, you must submit one of the following:
- A judicial ruling confirming you worked without papers
- A conciliation agreement from labor court proceedings
- An official report by Labor or Social Security Inspection
Don’t worry — our team can guide you on how to obtain and prepare these documents.
What Happens After You Apply?
Once your case is approved, you receive:
- A temporary residence permit
- Authorization to work in Spain
- Legal protection and full rights as a resident
The permit has the same validity as a first-time work permit and opens the door to long-term residency.
Why Choose Sterna Abogados?
We are an experienced immigration law firm in Madrid, with a bilingual legal team dedicated to helping American clients legalize their status in Spain. We manage everything from documentation to legal filings and court representation.
✅ Free case evaluation
✅ Clear guidance and document preparation
✅ Full representation with Spanish authorities
✅ Personalized attention in English and Spanish
Schedule Your Consultation Today
If you’ve worked in Spain without a contract and want to legalize your status — we can help.
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Take control of your future in Spain — starting now