Family roots (arraigo familiar): requirements
Direct answer
Family roots authorisation allows foreign nationals to obtain temporary residence when they are the parent of a Spanish minor, a dependent ascendant of a Spanish citizen, or the child of a parent who originally held Spanish nationality. It requires proof of the family tie, cohabitation or custody, sufficient means and a clean criminal record. Apply with form EX-10 and fee code 052; unlike social roots, it does not require three years of continuous registration.
Key facts
- Procedure: family roots (arraigo familiar).
- Usual form: EX-10.
- Educational content based on official sources; not legal advice.
- Reviewed against official sources in August 2026.
- Main office: Foreigners Office.
Our explanation
What it is and who qualifies
This guide explains family roots (arraigo familiar) for foreign nationals preparing a file in Spain. Family roots authorisation allows foreign nationals to obtain temporary residence when they have family ties in Spain and meet continuous stay, integration and documentation requirements under exceptional circumstances rules. The main rules are Organic Law 4/2000 and the Immigration Regulations; autonomous communities process applications but do not change substantive State requirements. Confirm that your personal situation fits before gathering unnecessary documents. Check certificate expiry and consistency between passport, empadronamiento and Social Security.
Legal framework and competence
The procedure falls under State immigration law and, where relevant, Ministry of Inclusion instructions and regional rules on appointments or social reports. Your provincial Foreigners Office is generally competent unless the case must be filed at a consulate or from abroad. Keep certified copies of everything submitted and retain registration receipts with date and file number. Check certificate expiry and consistency between passport, empadronamiento and Social Security. Keep stamped copies and registration receipts with date and file number. If you receive a formal request, reply within the deadline stated in the notification.
Usual documentation
Besides a full passport and ID photos, you usually need proof of the grounds for family roots (arraigo familiar), recent criminal record certificates, empadronamiento where required, and proof of means or health insurance. If form EX-10 applies, complete it consistently with annexes. Foreign-language documents need sworn translation and apostille or legalisation depending on the issuing country. Check certificate expiry and consistency between passport, empadronamiento and Social Security. Keep stamped copies and registration receipts with date and file number.
Submission and follow-up
File at the Foreigners Office or enabled electronic portal, paying the relevant fee before or during registration as current rules require. The maximum decision period is often three months; administrative silence is usually negative unless the law states otherwise. Reply to requests within the deadline: failure to supply documents in time often leads to inadmissibility or archiving. Check certificate expiry and consistency between passport, empadronamiento and Social Security. Keep stamped copies and registration receipts with date and file number. If you receive a formal request, reply within the deadline stated in the notification.
After the decision
If favourable, meet the deadline to apply for the TIE or supporting document and update Social Security if work is authorised. Plan renewal or modification before expiry. If refused, assess whether to file a reconsideration appeal within one month or court action; keep proof of notification to count time limits. Check certificate expiry and consistency between passport, empadronamiento and Social Security. Keep stamped copies and registration receipts with date and file number. If you receive a formal request, reply within the deadline stated in the notification.
Limits of this guide
This content summarises public sources on family roots (arraigo familiar) for educational purposes and does not replace administrative criteria or professional legal advice. Each case has family, employment or criminal nuances that may change the outcome. Always cross-check the BOE, the Ministry of Inclusion electronic site and your province's pages before acting. Check certificate expiry and consistency between passport, empadronamiento and Social Security. Keep stamped copies and registration receipts with date and file number. If you receive a formal request, reply within the deadline stated in the notification.
Step by step
- Confirm your case fits family roots (arraigo familiar).
- Gather ID, proof of grounds and criminal records.
- Complete EX-10 and pay the fee if applicable.
- Book an appointment or file at the Foreigners Office.
- Reply to requests and, if granted, apply for the TIE.
Requirements
- Full valid passport and copy.
- Relevant official form completed correctly.
- Fee payment proof where required.
- Recent criminal record certificates.
- Proof of relationship, custody or ascendance.
- Means and insurance if not contributing to Social Security.
FAQ
Is this official information?
No. We summarise public sources; only the Administration is binding.
Can I process family roots (arraigo familiar) without a lawyer?
Often yes, but documentary complexity may make professional advice advisable.
Where do I submit?
Usually at your provincial Foreigners Office or electronically if enabled.
How long does a decision take?
Often up to three months, but it varies by province and workload.
Official sources
Verified primary references. Our explanation is independent and does not replace official regulations.