How to Change Your Immigration Status Without Leaving Spain

Changing your immigration status in Spain can be a complex process, but it is possible to do so without leaving the country. Below, we explain how to effectively carry out this process while complying with the current regulations regarding immigration.

Types of Changes in Immigration Status

There are several modalities through which you can change your immigration status in Spain:

1. Change from Stay to Residence

If you are initially in Spain with a short-term visa (such as a tourist visa), you can apply to change to a residence permit. This change is possible if you meet certain requirements, such as:

• Justifying the existence of sufficient economic means.
• Having health insurance.
• Not having a criminal record.

2. Change of Work Situation

If you have a work permit in Spain and wish to change it to another modality (for example, from temporary work to long-term work), you will need to submit an application to the Immigration Office. General requirements include:

• Having a work contract.
• Justifying the continuity of the employment activity.
• Complying with the conditions established in the regulations.

3. Family Reunification

If you are a foreigner and have a direct relative with legal residency in Spain, you can apply for a family reunification permit. For this, you will need to present documents that prove the family relationship and the economic situation of your resident relative.

Steps to Change Your Immigration Status

1. Prepare the Necessary Documentation

Before starting the process, make sure to gather all the required documentation for the type of change you want to make. This usually includes:

• Corresponding application form.
• Valid passport.
• Documents that prove your employment or economic situation.
• Certificates that demonstrate your family relationship, if applicable.

2. Submit the Application

The application must be submitted at the Immigration Office or the police station corresponding to your place of residence. It is important to do this within the established deadlines for your application to be considered.

3. Wait for the Resolution

Once the application is submitted, you will need to wait for the administration's resolution. This process can take several months, depending on the workload of the competent authorities.

Useful Tips

• Consult an Immigration Lawyer: The regulations can be complex and changeable, so having legal advice can facilitate the process.
• Stay Informed: Regularly check the page of the Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security, and Migration to know about possible changes in legislation.

Changing your immigration status without leaving Spain is a viable process if you follow the appropriate steps and comply with the established requirements.

Written by:
Javier Dominguez
Expert Immigration Lawyer
Publication date: September 27, 2025

Find more information and carry out your procedures with InmiBot