If you’ve received an unfair administrative decision in Spain, you don’t have to accept it without challenge. Spanish law gives you the right to file a complaint (queja) or appeal (recurso) against most public authorities, including immigration, tax, and local government bodies.
This guide walks you through:
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The types of appeals and complaints
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How and when to file
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The difference between recurso and queja
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Getting legal help for faster resolution
🧾 What’s the Difference Between a Recurso and a Queja?
| Term | Meaning | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Recurso | Administrative or judicial appeal | Challenge a formal decision or resolution |
| Queja | Formal complaint | Report poor service, delays, or misconduct |
📝 Types of Appeals in Spain (Recursos)
1. 📄 Recurso de Alzada (Appeal to a Higher Authority)
Used when a decision is not final and can be appealed administratively.
✅ File within 1 month of notification.
🔁 If no response in 3 months, it’s considered rejected (“silencio administrativo”).
2. ⚖️ Recurso Potestativo de Reposición (Optional Reconsideration)
You ask the same authority to reconsider its own decision. Often a first step before going to court.
✅ File within 1 month of receiving the decision.
📬 If rejected, you may proceed to judicial appeal.
3. 🧑⚖️ Recurso Contencioso-Administrativo (Judicial Appeal)
This is the formal lawsuit filed in administrative courts.
✅ You must first exhaust all administrative appeals.
📅 Deadline: Usually 2 months after the final rejection.
💬 How to File a Complaint (Queja)
Use a queja when you’ve been:
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Treated unfairly or rudely by a public servant
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Subject to unreasonable delays
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Denied access or services without proper explanation
You can file it:
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Through the Sede Electrónica of the public authority
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By letter or email to the relevant office
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In-person at a government office or registro general
📎 Attach any supporting evidence: screenshots, emails, documents, or ID copies.
🔐 How to File Appeals or Complaints Online
Most Spanish authorities accept digital submissions via:
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Local or regional Sede platforms
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Red SARA for centralized access to government offices
To file online, you’ll need:
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A valid digital certificate or Cl@ve PIN
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Completed form depending on your case
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Supporting documentation in PDF
⏱ When to File
| Action | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Recurso de Alzada | 1 month from notification |
| Recurso de Reposición | 1 month from notification |
| Recurso Contencioso | 2 months from rejection |
| Complaint (Queja) | No strict deadline, but ASAP is recommended |
👩⚖️ Do You Need a Lawyer?
Not always, but hiring a lawyer:
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Increases success rate of administrative appeals
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Ensures you follow formal procedure and timelines
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Helps escalate unresolved cases to court
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Provides expert strategy if immigration or residency is affected
💡 Especially useful for immigration denials, fines, or public healthcare access issues.
🧑💼 Let Borderless Lawyers Help
If you’ve received an unjust decision—or been treated unfairly—our legal team helps you:
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Draft and file recurso or queja
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Submit supporting documents correctly
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Track deadlines and respond to official notifications
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Represent you in administrative courts if needed