The Main Reasons People Lose Their Residence Card in Spain
Every day, thousands of people renew their residence cards without any problems, but thousands of others make mistakes that cost them their residence status in Spain, leaving them in the difficult position of being “irregular in the country”. Remember how hard it was to obtain your residence card in Spain. To avoid going through that again, it is crucial not to fall into any of the fatal mistakes we detail below.
1. Problems With the Courts or the Police: Being a model citizen in Spain is essential. From failing a breathalyser test to a domestic dispute, any legal problem can lead to the loss of your card.
2. Renewing Late: The expiry date of your residence card is clearly shown. Renew within the 60 days before it expires, and never more than 90 days after.
3. Not Working: If you hold a residence and work permit, lack of employment can lead to the loss of your residence. Work at least 6 months a year and stay registered with Social Security during the renewal.
4. Working Off the Books: Working without a contract seriously harms you, because you do not build up the contribution days needed for renewal. Always work registered with Social Security to avoid problems with your residence card.
5. Different Rules for Family Members of EU Citizens: If you hold an EU family member card, the deadline changes slightly. Renew within the 30 days before it expires or in the 90 days after.
6. Spending Too Long Outside Spain: Residence cards are for “residing” in Spain. Leaving for more than six months in a year can lead to a refused renewal or even the termination of your residence. We explain the rules in detail in our guide on losing Spanish residency after 6 months outside Spain.
7. Not Actively Looking for Work: When you are not working, register as a job seeker at the Employment Office. Failing to do so can lead to the loss of residence in certain cases.
8. Not Paying the Fees: When renewing, paying the fees is essential. If you do not, the renewal file will be archived, with unpleasant surprises.
9. Debts With the Tax Agency or Social Security: Being up to date with your tax and Social Security obligations is necessary to renew your card. Filing tax returns late can also affect your status.
10. Submitting False Documents: Never submit false documents in your immigration file, as this can lead to the loss of your residence and legal proceedings.
11. Leaving Spain and Letting Your Card Expire: If you hold a residence card, come back before it expires or you will face problems when trying to renew. Many people find themselves in this situation; it is not as unusual as it seems.
So, keep these fatal mistakes in mind and avoid becoming the next victim. Acting responsibly in your immigration procedures will let you talk about these cases as mere anecdotes.
