If you have already submitted a residency, family reunification, student visa, work permit or other immigration application to the Madrid Immigration Office and are still awaiting a decision, the latest processing reference dates as of 1 April 2026 are outlined below.
The Madrid Immigration Office (Oficina de Extranjería de Madrid) regularly publishes processing reference dates, indicating up to which submission date applications are currently being resolved. This indicator is essential for applicants to estimate the status of their files and plan next steps.
As of 1 April 2026, processing reference dates by procedure type are: Non-lucrative residency (first application): applications submitted up to 15 January 2026; Temporary residency renewal: applications up to 10 February 2026; Employed work authorisation: applications up to 20 January 2026; Family reunification: applications up to 5 December 2025.
These dates are indicative and may vary depending on application volume. Applicants should ensure their documentation remains valid and, if expiry is imminent, book a renewal appointment well in advance.
What happens if your submission date has already passed the reference date but you still have no decision? Your file may be under review, awaiting a report from another authority (for example, a criminal-record check or a government report), or pending a request to correct documentation. We recommend checking the status regularly through the electronic headquarters (sede electrónica) and the email address provided in your application.
The most common causes of delay are incomplete or defective documentation, missing sworn Spanish translations or apostille legalisation of foreign documents, and the need for supplementary reports. Responding quickly and completely to any administrative request — normally within ten business days — is decisive in avoiding the closure of your file.
While your application is being processed, keep your passport valid and, if you need to leave Spain, consider applying for a return authorisation (autorización de regreso). It is also important to distinguish between first-application and renewal timelines: renewals are usually resolved faster, and filing within the 60 days before expiry (or up to 90 days after) safeguards the continuity of your legal status.
At Iberex Spain, we continuously monitor our clients' application status and keep them informed of any developments. If your application is taking longer than expected or you have any questions, contact our team for personalised guidance.