What do you need for an Arraigo?

There must be shown an attempt to find a place in society:

For example, one is taking courses or having learned the language, etc. Of course one must have contract work not later than 12 months, full time, and the company to urge the contract is up to date with payments to both Social Security and the IRS.

This is a bit of the info you will be told. Paltry I know.

To add to it, let's begin....

You must ask yourself if you are ready to stay in Spain for three years? Now some people take the risk and return to their native country during the year, but this is taking a chance. Being caught and deported means that you will be barred from entry to Europe for several years. So you need to ask yourself, can you stay in Spain for three or more years?

Next, you need begin leaving a paper trail. Document. Document! DOCUMENT everything. Here are some good examples:

1. Your abono (your monthly metro pass). It is an easy way to show your presences in Madrid. Every month you purchase one and then, at the end of month, put it somewhere safe. I can't stress enough how easy this is, but it only works if you have them all. You need to have a full year's worth, even August. Remember you're trying to impress upon the officials your honest desire to live and work in Spain.

2. You need to register with the city. Or obtain a certificado de empadronamiento. Now, you need to go to the town hall of your bario or neighborhood. They don't care that you're illegal. What they care about is knowing how many people are living in a certain district for tax money allocation. But it is essential to tell them when you started to live in the city. This is a point a great many people forget and don't complete for several months AFTER they have been living in the city. It will push back your submission date.

3.Your rental contract. You need to make sure your name is on it. Now, as a North American, this can be difficult. But you can find a flatmate who is legal and have them sign. And you are a co-signer.

3a. If at all possible get receipts for rental payments.

4. You need a bank account. You'll have a bank book. But also hold on to the deposity slips. Remember every piece of paper helps!

5. A bill. For the telephone or the Internet or something. Several bills actually. If possible a whole months worth would be best.

6. All of the above are showing two very important things... That you are earning money and spending money in Spain. You must show the government that you won't be a drain on the social services. That you are a productive member of society here.