When an immigration file is delayed, the most common cause is not legal but documentary. A birth certificate without an apostille, a non-sworn translation or an expired legalisation means filing again and waiting for another slot.
The Hague apostille certifies the authenticity of a foreign public document so it has effect in Spain. Countries outside the convention require diplomatic legalisation, a slower process best started early.
The translation must be done by a recognised sworn translator. A courtesy translation, however good, does not meet the requirement and is rejected.
Practical advice: before booking an appointment or filling in forms, list the foreign documents you need and check the issue date, apostille and translation. That preparation saves months.
The information on this page is indicative and updated in line with current regulations. Timing largely depends on the competent authority.