Good to know · Health
Help for dependency (Ley de Dependencia)
Law 39/2006 gives a right to services and cash benefits to people in a recognized situation of dependency. The application goes to the region’s social services body; the resolution sets the grade (I moderate, II severe, III great dependency) and an individual care program (PIA) is drawn up. Residence of five years, two of them just before the application, is among the conditions in art. 5.
- Why it matters
- Art. 5 of the law ties the right to nationality or foreigners' law and to years of residence in Spain, so newcomers should read it first. This card describes what the law and IMSERSO pages say and does not say whether anyone qualifies.
- When
- You or a relative need help with daily living and want to know how the dependency system works.
- Official page
- Ley 39/2006, de Promoción de la Autonomía Personal y Atención a las personas en situación de dependencia
- Last checked
- 26 Oct 2026
In the guide: the 6 steps, what to bring (4 items), the 2 offices with addresses and hours, and 3 Easy to miss lines, with every official source.
One Easy to miss, on us
Art. 5.1.c requires residence in Spain for five years, two of which must be immediately before the date of the application.