On this page
- Quick summary
- Overview (What is Form EX-00?)
- Context and workflow
- Do you need this visa?
- Eligibility Category Codes
- Failure prevention (What causes Form EX-00 rejections?)
- What you need (What do you need for Form EX-00?)
- Checklist (What is the Form EX-00 checklist?)
- Processing times
- Where to file
- Fees
- Form sections (What sections does Form EX-00 have?)
- Strategy tips
- Mistake severity
- Examples (What are examples for Form EX-00?)
- Common misconceptions (What misconceptions surround Form EX-00?)
- Edge cases and variations
- Scenarios
- Next steps
- Verification
- Related guides
- Resources
Quick summary
#Individuals with temporary nonimmigrant status who want to extend their stay or change to another eligible status use EX-00. Apply before your current status expires. For related guidance, see the How to Apply for a Spanish page.
When you need to extend your current nonimmigrant status before it expires
Include it with your application package and follow official instructions for submission.
Names, dates of birth, and passport details on other forms Program checklist requirements Supporting documents and translations
Overview (What is Form EX-00?)
#This form is used to request an extension of stay in Spain and to provide State Secretariat for Migration (Secretaría de Estado de Migraciones) (SEM) with necessary information to evaluate the applicant's ties Form EX-00 and integration into Spanish society, as described in the Form SCHENGEN-VISA-FORM guide. Check the official EX-00 instructions to confirm your eligibility category
Context and workflow
#Processing time for EX-00 varies by case type and current workload — typically check the official SEM processing time tool.
Why this matters
- This form helps confirm that the application matches the program’s requirements and checklist.
- This form acts as a cross-check point: details here must match other forms and supporting documents.
Where it fits in the workflow
- Application receipt (resguardo de solicitud)
- Evaluation of social and employment ties
- Decision on extension request
Who uses it
Individuals with temporary nonimmigrant status who want to extend their stay or change to another eligible status use EX-00. This form is applicable for those seeking to extend a short stay under the Schengen framework or transition to a national visa. Applicants should apply before their current status expires, especially if their stay is approaching the 90 days limit. For related guidance, see the How to Apply for a Spanish page.
When it is used
- When you need to extend your current nonimmigrant status before it expires
- When you want to change from one nonimmigrant classification to another eligible status
- If your current status allows extension or change under the official instructions
- National-student — For extending student stay permit
- When filing EX-00 alongside EX-04 (Extension for trainee and other stays)
- When filing EX-00 alongside SCHENGEN-VISA-FORM (Short-stay vs national extension)
- After filing EX-00 — EX-17 may be the next step (TIE card issued after residence approval)
Do you need this visa?
#Eligibility Category Codes
#Eligibility information for this form. Confirm your category in the official instructions before filing.
This is a shortlist of common categories. The official instructions include many more.
| Code | Who applies |
|---|---|
| General | Individuals with temporary nonimmigrant status who want to extend their stay or change to another eligible status use EX-00. Apply before your current status expires |
| Eligibility | This form is used by applicants filing with SEM. |
Failure prevention (What causes Form EX-00 rejections?)
#Technical rejections
- Ensure form edition is current
Substantive weaknesses
- Insufficient evidence of social ties
- Lack of employment documentation
- To avoid filing extension after status has expired: File before your current status expires.
What you need (What do you need for Form EX-00?)
#- The current edition of EX-00
- Proof of current legal status in Spain
- Documentation of social ties in Spain
- Evidence of financial means to support stay
Checklist (What is the Form EX-00 checklist?)
#- Access the latest EX-00 form and its accompanying instructions directly from the official SEM website.
- Review the official EX-00 instructions before filing
- Gather required supporting documents per the instructions
- Complete all required sections of EX-00
- Sign, date, and submit EX-00 with all required supporting evidence
Sources for this section
Processing times
#| Category | Processing time |
|---|---|
| Schengen Visa | approximately 15 daysas of February 2026 |
- Processing time for EX-00 under "Schengen Visa": approximately 15 days (as of February 2026).
- Processing times for EX-00 vary by category and processing location. Verify current processing times with the issuing authority.
- Processing times differ significantly by eligibility category. Initial applications, renewals, and replacements each go through different adjudication queues, and some categories consistently take longer than others.
- Processing times for this form vary by SEM office and current workload. Verify current processing times with SEM.
- While pending: track your case status using your File number (expediente number), respond promptly to any requests for additional documents, and update your contact information with SEM if it changes.
Where to file
#Submit your application at the designated SEM office, embassy, or consulate. Check the official website for the location with jurisdiction over your place of residence.
Submit application
Submit your application at the SEM office or designated embassy/consulate in your country of residence. Check the official instructions for the correct location.
Filing locations and procedures may change. Always verify on the official SEM website before submitting.
Fees
#Total possible cost: €0
Some categories are exempt from the biometrics fee.
| Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Filing FeeThe filing fee for form ex-00 is €0. Verify the current fee on the official fee schedule before filing. | €0 |
| Biometrics Services FeeA biometrics fee may be required depending on your category. Check the official fee schedule. | See official schedule |
What is the total cost of Form EX-00?
Most applicants pay €0. Some categories are exempt. Verify on the official fee schedule.
Can the Form EX-00 fee be waived?
Fee waivers may be available for qualifying applicants. See official instructions for eligibility.
What happens if I submit the wrong fee?
SEM will reject your application if the incorrect fee is submitted. Verify the current fee on the official schedule before filing.
Fee waiver: Fee waivers may be available for qualifying applicants. See official instructions for eligibility. For related guidance, see national-student.
Fees change; always verify on SEM.
Form sections (What sections does Form EX-00 have?)
#Personal Information
Applicant biographical data.
- Full name and passport details
- Date of birth and nationality
- Current address in Spain
Arraigo Pathway
Which pathway you are applying under.
- Type of arraigo (social, laboral, familiar)
- Duration of continuous presence in Spain
- Evidence of social or employment ties
Supporting Evidence
Documentation for the specific pathway.
- Municipal registration (empadronamiento) showing 3+ years
- Job offer or self-employment plan
- Social integration report from local authorities
- Family ties documentation (if applicable)
Strategy tips
#Mistake severity
#| Mistake type | Severity | How to avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Filing extension after status has expired | Rejection | File before your current status expires. |
Examples (What are examples for Form EX-00?)
#- Strong application: An applicant submits the form with all required documents and receives a timely decision.
- Scenario: Applicant X provided comprehensive evidence of employment and social ties. The result was a successful extension of stay. Always ensure all supporting documents are thorough and complete.
- Weak application: Applicant Y submitted the form without evidence of financial means or social ties, leading to a denial of the extension request.
Common misconceptions (What misconceptions surround Form EX-00?)
#- Filing this form does not guarantee approval of the underlying case
- Filing does not automatically extend your status while the application is pending
- You may need to meet the eligibility requirements for the requested classification
Edge cases and variations
#- If you are asked to submit or update EX-00, treat it as a package update: check every place the same details appear and keep them consistent.
Scenarios
#A Peruvian national with arraigo social (3 years of continuous residence and social ties) files EX-00 for initial temporary residence with a job offer and municipal registration proof.
Temporary residence granted through the arraigo pathway. Work authorization included.
The arraigo social pathway requires 3 years of continuous presence, social ties, and either a job offer or proof of self-employment means.
An applicant files EX-00 citing humanitarian reasons but cannot provide sufficient evidence of exceptional circumstances.
Application denied. Humanitarian arraigo requires documented evidence of compelling personal circumstances.
Gather strong supporting evidence including social worker reports, medical documentation, or proof of special vulnerability before filing.
An applicant files for arraigo laboral (employment roots) and provides evidence of 6 months of irregular employment plus an employer complaint or labor inspection report.
Residence authorized through arraigo laboral. The applicant receives a 1-year residence and work permit.
Arraigo laboral requires proof of at least 6 months of work (even irregular) plus official documentation such as labor inspection findings.
Next steps
#- Application receipt (resguardo de solicitud)
- Review by SEM for completeness and evidence
- Notification of decision
- If approved, continue with TIE card issuance and collection
Verification
#This guide is based on official SEM instructions for the EX-00 and is updated whenever there are changes in form editions or filing rules. Always confirm current requirements on the official SEM website.
Resources
#FAQs
What other forms are typically filed together with EX-00?
After EX-00 is approved: EX-17 (tIE card issued after residence approval). Review the official instructions for complete details.
Can I file EX-00 if I've already left the country or my situation has changed?
The eligibility criteria and filing requirements for the application receipt (resguardo de solicitud) may differ depending on your specific location or circumstances. It is essential to consult the official instructions for comprehensive guidance.
Do I need to file EX-00 if I'm only updating my address or contact information?
Address or contact updates may be handled through a dedicated form or through your online account, depending on the agency's procedures. EX-00 may not be required for simple address changes. Review the official instructions for complete details.
What happens if my EX-00 application is denied?
Review the official instructions for complete details.
Can I apply for an extension if my visa has already expired?
Typically, you may need to apply for an extension before your current visa expires. Filing after expiration may affect your eligibility. Review the official EX-00 instructions for complete guidance specific to your immigration case and circumstances.
Is it necessary to provide proof of accommodation?
Proof of accommodation may be required to demonstrate your living arrangements during the extended stay period. Review the official EX-00 instructions for complete guidance specific to your immigration case and circumstances.
Can I include family members in my EX-00 application?
For comprehensive details, consult the official instructions.
How do I choose the correct eligibility category code on EX-00?
Your eligibility category code dictates the basis for filing the EX-00 form. It is essential to review the instructions tailored to your specific eligibility category prior to beginning the application process.
Do I need to provide a mailing address for EX-00?
You need a reliable mailing address for notices and card delivery. If you do not have a stable address, SEM allows alternatives (e.g., a representative's address or safe mailing options) per official rules — review the instructions for your situation.
What happens after I submit EX-00?
After submitting EX-00, SEM will issue a Confirmation of receipt confirming acceptance. You may then be scheduled for biometrics, an interview, or additional evidence requests depending on your case. You can monitor your case status online using the receipt number from your notice.
VisaMind provides informational guidance only and is not a government agency. This is not legal advice. Requirements can change and eligibility depends on your specific facts. If your case is complex or high-stakes, consult a licensed immigration attorney.
Next steps
Requirements vary by nationality, purpose, timeline, and case details. VisaMind turns uncertainty into a sequenced checklist with official source citations.
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