Since the new Immigration Regulation (RLOEx), enacted through Royal Decree 1155/2024, came into force, one of the most relevant changes for many foreign families in Spain has been the updated approach to residence permits for minors, whether born in Spain or not.
Through an internal note dated July 1st, 2025, the Directorate-General for Migration Management (DGGM) has clarified the new criteria for processing renewal applications for minors who had previously been granted a residence permit under the old regulation (RD 557/2011) with a validity period of less than five years.
You can access the full official note published by the DGGM here:
⏺️ What’s the key change?
The new RLOEx establish that the initial residence permit for foreign minors accompanied by a legal resident —whether born in Spain or abroad— will now be granted for five years.
However, many minors still hold permits issued under the previous regulation for shorter durations. Since the new regulation came into force, a common question has emerged: how can we renew these permits, and under what conditions?
⏺️ The criteria established by the Directorate-General for Migration Management
According to the official note, this is not a standard renewal, but rather the granting of a new initial permit under the new regulation, with the following key feature:
- The new residence permit will be valid for the remaining time needed to complete five years from the first permit issued to the minor, which will then allow them to apply for long-term residence.
- No proof of adequate housing or financial means will be required, unlike under the previous regulation. These requirements are waived in this specific context.
⏺️ Who is affected by this instruction?
All families with minor children who currently hold temporary residence permits for less than five years under the old regulation. Specifically:
- Minors born in Spain (Art. 159 of the new RLOEx)
- Minors not born in Spain (Art. 160 of the new RLOEx)
In both cases, the minors must be accompanied by an adult with legal residence in Spain.
⏺️ What does this mean for families?
This is a positive and welcome development, especially in terms of administrative simplification and legal stability for minors already settled in Spain. With this new approach, families can avoid the burden of repeated renewals, are relieved from burdensome documentation requirements, and benefit from a smoother path toward long-term residence after five years.
⏺️ Need help applying for your child’s residence permit?
At ARC Legal, we specialize in immigration law and assist families at every step of the residence application or renewal process. If you need to submit an application for a minor, we can help you evaluate your case, prepare the necessary documents, and submit it properly under the new regulation. Don’t hesitate to contact us.
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Prefer to read this article in Spanish? Puedes encontrar la versión en español aquí: Nuevo criterio de aplicación sobre la renovación de autorizaciones de residencia de menores extranjeros en España
The content of this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration regulations are subject to ongoing administrative and interpretative changes. At ARC Legal, we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information based on official sources, but we always recommend consulting a specialized professional before starting any process or making legal decisions. If you require tailored advice, please contact our office.