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Immigration lawyers in Mallorca for residence permits and visas
Residing in Spain involves following a procedure that depends on your nationality, the purpose of your stay and your personal circumstances.
At Mallorca Solicitors, we provide guidance on applying for residence permits and visas. From the outset, we explain which route may be appropriate, what requirements must be met and where to begin the process.
Immigration
Advice on residence permits and visas
Your nationality, the country from which you apply, your reason for residing in Spain and your personal situation all determine which procedure to follow.
Before preparing your application, we look at these circumstances to identify the right route, check requirements and establish where to start the process.
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Initial assessment
We review the applicant’s personal and administrative situation and explain which procedure and requirements may apply.
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Preparing the documents
We explain which documents to prepare, check that they are consistent and flag any formalities needed before they are submitted.
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Submission and follow-up
We coordinate the submission where the procedure allows, monitor progress, and handle any requests from the authorities.
Visa vs residence authorisation
A visa allows you to request entry to, or a stay in, Spain for a specific purpose and, in many cases, is applied for through the relevant consulate before you travel.
A residence authorisation recognises your right to live in Spain once you meet the requirements of the procedure. The two can be part of the same process, but they are not the same thing.
Advice before you move to Mallorca
Getting advice before you move means you can determine whether the procedure has to start in your country of residence and which documents you need to obtain there. Our advice can begin before you arrive in Spain and continue through the subsequent stages.
Frequently asked questions about immigration in Mallorca
Which immigration procedures can Mallorca Solicitors advise on?
Mallorca Solicitors advises on applying for residence permits and visas. The first step is to look at your situation to work out which procedure may apply and what requirements must be met.
What is the difference between a visa and a residence permit?
A visa allows you to request entry to or a stay in Spain for a specific purpose and is usually processed through a consulate. A residence authorisation or permit recognises your right to live in Spain when you meet the requirements of the relevant procedure.
Where do I submit a residence or visa application?
It depends on the procedure. Some applications must begin at the Spanish consulate for the applicant’s place of residence, while others are submitted in Spain. It is best to establish this before preparing your documents.
When should I speak to an immigration lawyer?
Ideally before you move to Spain or submit an application. An early consultation helps identify the right procedure, check the requirements and leave enough time to prepare any documents that need to be obtained in another country.
What documents do I need to apply for residence in Spain?
The documents vary depending on the type of authorisation and your circumstances. You may need to prove your identity, financial situation, reason for residing in Spain or other conditions, but the exact list can only be set once we have looked at your specific case.
Can I start the process while I’m still outside Spain?
Yes, and some procedures must be initiated in your country of residence through the relevant Spanish consulate. We will assess your situation to establish where your application needs to start.
Does buying a property in Mallorca automatically give me residency?
No, buying a property does not in itself give you the right to live in Spain. Since 3 April 2025, residence visas for investors who buy property are no longer available, although transitional rules apply to certain earlier authorisations. You would need to meet the requirements of another residence route.
Can I apply for a permit if I’m already in Spain?
It depends on your administrative status and the procedure that may apply. Being in Spain does not mean any authorisation can be requested from inside the country, so your case needs to be reviewed before you begin.
Let’s talk about your residence in Spain
If you are thinking of moving to Mallorca, or need to apply for a residence permit or visa, tell us about your situation and we will look at which procedure may apply.