Spain: Fingerprint Appointment and Residence Card Issuance Delays Observed

Amid increased workload following implementation of a law regularizing certain irregular foreign nationals, immigration professionals have observed that fingerprint registration appointment availability is considerably reduced and residence card issuance processing times are delayed significantly (and can sometimes take up to two months or longer, which varies depending on the city of issuance). Although this does not affect an individual’s right to live or work in Spain, affected foreign nationals may face re-entry issues such as denial of entry at the Spanish border if they lack a residence card. Those seeking to travel without a residence card should seek guidance from their immigration provider to determine if other options are available. 

This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen.