Spain’s Long-Term Residency Explained: Rights After 5 Years

For many non-EU citizens, Spain offers an attractive lifestyle, warm climate, and a high quality of life. But what happens after living legally in Spain for several years? If you’ve spent at least five continuous years in the country under a valid residency permit, you may qualify for long-term residency: a status that brings significant benefits and stability.

In this article, we explain what Spain’s long-term residency is, who can apply, and what rights it grants. Whether you’re already a resident or planning your future move, this guide will help you understand how to secure your status in Spain for the long haul.

What is long-term residency in Spain?

Long-term residency (“residencia de larga duración”) is a legal status granted to non-EU nationals who have lived in Spain continuously for at least five years. This residency allows you to live and work in Spain indefinitely, under the same conditions as Spanish nationals.

It’s a highly valuable milestone because it removes the need for frequent renewals and gives you greater legal protection and mobility.

Key benefits of long-term residency

No more renewals: Your permit does not expire every few years like temporary residency.
Freedom to work: You can work as an employee or self-employed without needing additional authorizations.
Equal access to public services: You’re entitled to healthcare, education, and social benefits like any Spanish citizen.
Family reunification: It simplifies the process of bringing family members to live with you.
Stability for long-term planning: Ideal if you want to buy property, start a business, or raise a family in Spain.

Who can apply?

You can apply for long-term residency if:

You have legally resided in Spain for at least 5 years continuously.
You have not left Spain for more than 10 months in total during that period (or 6 consecutive months).
Your stay has been under valid residency permits — such as a non-lucrative visa, work visa, family reunification, or student residence (partially counted).
You have no serious criminal record in Spain or previous countries of residence.
You are financially stable and, if applicable, covered by public or private health insurance.

How to apply

The application is submitted through the Extranjería Office in your province. Here’s a general outline of the process:

1. Gather documentation, including:

Valid passport
Proof of 5-year legal residency
Empadronamiento certificate
Criminal record certificate
Health insurance and proof of financial means

2. Submit EX-11 application form.
3. Pay the corresponding fee.
4. Wait for approval (usually within 3 months).

Once approved, you’ll be issued a long-term residence card (TIE), typically valid for five years, but renewable without restrictions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Miscounting your time: Short stays outside Spain can break the 5-year continuity if they exceed the allowed limit.
Overlooking expired permits: You must have had legal status the entire time — gaps can disqualify your application.
Forgetting to renew your TIE: Even though your status is permanent, the physical card must be renewed every 5 years.
Not registering changes: Address or family status changes must be reported to maintain your legal record.

Why Long-Term Residency Matters for Property Buyers

If you’re planning to buy property in Spain — or already own one — long-term residency adds legal security to your investment. It allows you to:

Stay year-round without needing a visa
Benefit from resident tax advantages
Avoid future immigration barriers if laws change
Qualify for mortgages and financial products more easily

For retirees and families relocating permanently, long-term residency makes living in Spain more practical and cost-effective.

Can You Still Travel in the EU?

Yes, holding long-term residency in Spain gives you the right to move freely within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. It doesn’t replace a passport or allow you to work in other EU countries, but it simplifies tourism and short-term travel.

If you’re considering relocating to another EU country, you may apply for EU long-term residence, which opens up more mobility and rights across Europe.

Obtaining long-term residency in Spain is not only a legal formality: it’s a powerful step toward permanent stability and integration. Whether your goal is retirement in the sun, raising a family, or launching a business, long-term residency opens the door to a life in Spain with full legal rights and peace of mind.

At Fuster & Associates, we help international clients navigate the immigration process with confidence. From initial visas to long-term solutions, our expert legal team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Contact Fuster & Associates today for expert guidance.

We want to help you navigate all the legal complexities that come to buying or selling a house in Spain, but this article is legal information and should not be seen as legal advice.