What is long-term residence?
Long-term residence is a permit granted to foreigners who have legally resided in Spain for a continuous period of five years. This authorization allows them to live permanently in the country, work both as an employee and as a self-employed person, and enjoy a series of benefits and advantages. Below, we will discuss in detail what long-term residency is, its advantages, requirements, necessary documents, how long the process takes, how to renew it, and we will answer any questions that may arise.
Advantages of obtaining long-term residence
- Possibility of working both as an employee and as a self-employed person: Holders of long-term residence have the possibility of working in Spain, either for a company or as self-employed.
- Bring your parents to Spain: Long-term residence holders can apply for family reunification to bring their parents to Spain.
- Online applications: The long-term residency application process can be done online, which makes the process easier and faster.
- It is not necessary to demonstrate financial means: Unlike other residence permits, holders of long-term residence are not required to demonstrate financial means to support themselves in Spain.
- You can always recover it: If you lose your long-term residence, holders have the possibility of recovering it in the future.
Main differences with the EU long-term card
The EU long-term card is a permanent residence permit granted to citizens of the European Union who have legally resided in Spain for a continuous period of five years. Unlike long-term residence, the EU long-term card only allows you to reside and work in Spain, but does not include the possibility of bringing parents to the country.
Requirements to obtain long-term residence
To obtain long-term residence in Spain, it is necessary to meet a series of requirements, which may vary depending on the personal situation of each applicant. Some of the most common requirements include:
Have legally resided in Spain for a continuous period of at least five years.
Have a work contract or a stable economic activity in the country.
Not have a criminal record in Spain or in previous countries of residence.
Comply with the requirements for family reunification if you want to bring your parents to the country.
In addition to these general requirements, it is important to keep in mind that there may be additional requirements depending on the particular situation of each applicant.
Documents you must present
To apply for long-term residence in Spain, it is necessary to present a series of documents that prove compliance with the established requirements. Some of the documents that are usually required include:
- Valid passport or identification document.
- Certificate of registration.
- Employment contract or proof of economic activity.
- Criminal record.
- Documents that prove family reunification in case you want to bring your parents to the country.
It is important to keep in mind that the list of documents may vary depending on the personalsituation of each applicant and the regulations in force at the time of the application.
How long does the process take?
The time it takes to apply for long-term residence in Spain may vary depending on various factors, such as the workload of the competent authorities, the complexity of the case, and the availability of the necessary documentation. In general, the process can take several months, so it is important to be patient and prepared for possible delays.
How to renew your long-term residence card
Once you have obtained long-term residence in Spain, it is important to renew it within the established deadlines to avoid its expiration. To renew the long-term residence card, it is necessary to present a series of documents that prove the continuity of the situation that gave rise to the granting of the permit. Some of the documents that are usually required for renewal include:
- Valid passport or identification document.
- Certificate of registration.
- Employment contract or proof of economic activity.
- Updated criminal record certificate.
It is important to keep in mind that the renewal of the long-term residence card must be carried out within the established deadlines, to avoid possible sanctions or loss of the permit.
Do you have any doubt?
If you have any questions about long-term residence in Spain, the requirements to obtain it, the necessary documents, the time the process takes, or any other aspect related to this residence permit, do not hesitate to contact the competent authorities. a lawyer specialized in immigration, or an immigration advisory service. These professionals will be able to clarify your doubts and provide you with the necessary information to carry out the application process properly.
