papeles en regla
Grammar & Usage
How it works
This idiom consists of the plural noun 'papeles' (documents) modified by the prepositional phrase 'en regla' (in accordance with the rules). It typically functions as a direct object with verbs like 'tener' (to have) or 'poner' (to put), or with 'estar' (to be) to indicate that administrative or immigration status is fully regularized. It acts adjectivally or adverbially depending on the governing verb.
Sample sentences
Para solicitar este empleo, es indispensable tener todos los papeles en regla.
To apply for this job, it is essential to have all your papers in order.
La policía detuvo el coche para comprobar si los papeles estaban en regla.
The police stopped the car to check if the documents were in order.
Llegó al país hace tres años y finalmente consiguió tener sus papeles en regla.
She arrived in the country three years ago and finally got her legal papers in order.
Quick facts
Mnemonic
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Example
Para solicitar este empleo, es indispensable tener todos los papeles en regla.
To apply for this job, it is essential to have all your papers in order.
La policía detuvo el coche para comprobar si los papeles estaban en regla.
The police stopped the car to check if the documents were in order.
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