Recently, the Government of Spain has approved a significant reform of the Immigration Regulations with the aim of improving the integration of migrants in the country. This reform introduces several key innovations:
**New forms of rootedness**: Five types of rootedness have been established to facilitate the regularization of foreign individuals:
- **Social rootedness**: For those who can demonstrate family ties in Spain or prove their social integration through a regional report.
- **Socio-labor rootedness**: Targeted at those with a job contract that meets the conditions established for residence and work authorizations for employees.
- **Family rootedness**: Allows temporary residence for foreigners who are parents of a minor with Spanish or community nationality, or children of original Spanish parents.
- **Second chance rootedness**: Offers a regularization pathway for individuals who had a residence authorization in the last two years and did not renew it.
- **Socio-educational rootedness**: Previously known as rootedness through education, aimed at those who are studying or enrolled in specific training programs, facilitating their labor integration.
**Visas and authorizations**:
- **Job search visa**: Its duration is extended from three months to one year, allowing applicants to seek job opportunities in Spain for a longer period.
- **Initial authorizations**: All will have a validity of one year, and renewals will be for four years, simplifying procedures and avoiding situations of unforeseen irregularity.
**Family reunification**: The conditions for family reunification have been relaxed and improved, extending the age of reunited children up to 26 years and recognizing unregistered partners, provided an analogous relationship is proven.
**Asylum seekers**: A transitional regularization has been established allowing those with a denied asylum application to opt for the forms of rootedness after residing in Spain for six months, instead of the previously required two years.
These reforms aim to facilitate the social and labor integration of migrants, adapting the regulations to the current needs of the labor market and promoting inclusion through work, education, and family.
However, some migrant defense organizations have expressed their dissatisfaction with certain aspects of the new regulation and have filed appeals before the Supreme Court, arguing that the regulation does not adequately address the protection of minors' rights and other essential issues. RTVE
It is important to note that these modifications will come into effect in May 2025, so interested individuals are advised to stay informed and consult official sources for specific details and procedures.
For a more detailed explanation of these innovations, you can watch the following video.
