The Migration and Aliens Law provides for the issuance of a Special Residence Permit (Permiso Especial de Permanencia) to refugees and stateless persons (Article 39). The Law authorizes the granting of such permits for periods of up to five (5) years. This period relates to the validity of the migration document and should not be interpreted as a limitation on refugee status or international protection. In addition, Article 45 of the Regulations links the issuance of the Special Residence Permit to the recognition of refugee status.