EU Long-Term Residence
Five-year residents seeking long-term status with mobility rights across the EU.
The EU Long-Term Residence is a Spanish settlement & citizenship visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~€22 authorisation tasa + ~€16 TIE card) and processing time (~3 months), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the EU Long-Term Residence is for
Five-year residents seeking long-term status with mobility rights across the EU.
Permanent EU status; can ease moving to and residing in other EU states.
EU Long-Term Residence - eligibility criteria
- 5 years' continuous legal residence in Spain
- Stable and regular economic resources
- Health insurance
- No disqualifying criminal record
- Integration evidence where required
EU Long-Term Residence cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the EU Long-Term Residence (Spain) is ~€22 authorisation tasa + ~€16 TIE card, with an indicative processing time of ~3 months. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Spain - Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
| Type | Permanent residence |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | In Spain at the immigration office |
| Length of stay | Indefinite; card renewed every 5 years |
| Work rights | Full work rights, with EU mobility |
| Study rights | Permitted |
| Government fee | ~€22 authorisation tasa + ~€16 TIE card |
| Processing time | ~3 months |
| Route to PR | Permanent EU status; can ease moving to and residing in other EU states. |
Pathway & next steps
Permanent EU status; can ease moving to and residing in other EU states.
Many applicants also compare Larga Duración · Long-Term Residence (Residencia de Larga Duración), Blue Card · EU Blue Card, Nacionalidad · Spanish Citizenship by Residence. Run a free VisaChief check to see which Spanish route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common EU Long-Term Residence pitfalls we fix
EU Long-Term Residence - frequently asked questions
How much does the EU Long-Term Residence cost?
The EU Long-Term Residence government fee is ~€22 authorisation tasa + ~€16 TIE card. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Spain - Ministry of Foreign Affairs before applying.
How long does the EU Long-Term Residence take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~3 months. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the EU Long-Term Residence lead to permanent residence?
Permanent EU status; can ease moving to and residing in other EU states.
Can I work on the EU Long-Term Residence?
Work rights: Full work rights, with EU mobility.
Who can apply for the EU Long-Term Residence?
Five-year residents seeking long-term status with mobility rights across the EU.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Spain government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Spain - Ministry of Foreign Affairs - official Spain immigration authority