Bringing your family to Spain can be a life-changing step, allowing loved ones to reunite while enjoying life in one of Europe’s most vibrant countries. The Family Reunification Visa (Visado de Reagrupación Familiar) enables non-EU citizens legally residing in Spain to bring their close family members. This guide covers eligibility, the application process, financial requirements, and additional considerations.
Who Can Apply for Family Reunification in Spain?
To sponsor a family member for reunification, you must meet the following conditions:
- Hold a valid Spanish residence permit (excluding student visas) for at least one year.
- Commit to renewing your residence permit for at least another year.
- Demonstrate financial stability and adequate housing that meets Spanish legal standards.
Eligible Family Members
The following family members qualify for reunification:
- Spouse or registered partner (pareja de hecho) in a legally recognized relationship.
- Children under 18 (including legally adopted children).
- Dependent children over 18 (if they have a disability or cannot support themselves due to health reasons).
- Dependent parents over 65, provided the sponsor proves financial responsibility for them.
Step 1: Sponsor Applies for the Residence Authorization
Before your family member can apply for a visa, you must first obtain an Autorización de Residencia por Reagrupación Familiar from the Oficina de ExtranjerÃa (Immigration Office) in your province.
How to Apply for the Residence Authorization
- Submit an Online or In-Person Application
- File your application at the Oficina de ExtranjerÃa.
- Provide supporting documents proving family ties, income, and housing suitability.
- Attend an Immigration Office Appointment
- Bring original documents, including marriage/birth certificates, proof of income, and housing documentation.
- The Immigration Office reviews your application and issues a resolution within 45 days.
- Receive the Authorization
- If approved, the residence authorization is sent to the Spanish consulate where your family member will apply for their visa.
- If denied, you have one month to appeal the decision.
Step 2: Family Member Applies for the Visa
Once the residence authorization is granted, the family member abroad must apply for the Family Reunification Visa at the Spanish Consulate in their home country.
Required Documents for the Visa Application
- Visa application form and passport-sized photos.
- Valid passport with at least four months validity.
- Residence authorization issued by the Immigration Office.
- Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate, or registered partnership proof, duly legalized and translated if applicable).
- Medical certificate proving no serious contagious diseases.
- Police clearance certificate from their home country.
- Proof of financial means and housing in Spain.
The processing time varies but usually takes 1–3 months.
Step 3: Family Member Arrives in Spain and Applies for a TIE Card
Upon approval, the family member receives a D-type visa valid for travel to Spain. Upon arrival, they must:
- Register at the Local Town Hall (Empadronamiento)
- This is necessary to prove residence in Spain.
- Apply for the Foreigner’s Identity Card (TIE)
- Within 30 days of arrival, apply at the nearest Oficina de ExtranjerÃa.
- Provide fingerprints and necessary documents.
- Receive the TIE card, which allows legal residence and work rights.
Special Cases: Registered Partnerships and Extended Family Reunification
Registered Partnerships (Pareja de Hecho)
Spain recognizes registered partnerships (parejas de hecho), but reunification eligibility depends on whether the relationship is legally recognized in Spain or in the home country.
Extended Family Members
- In exceptional cases, siblings or adult children with disabilities may qualify.
- Additional financial and dependency proof may be required.
Financial and Housing Requirements
Sponsors must demonstrate financial means to support their family. The minimum income required is based on the IPREM (Indicador Público de Renta de Efectos Múltiples):
- For the first family member: 150% of the IPREM.
- For each additional family member: An additional 50% of the IPREM.
- Proof of adequate housing with a Habitability Certificate (Cédula de Habitabilidad).
Tax Considerations and Work Rights
- Family members can work in Spain upon receiving their TIE card.
- The Beckham Law does not apply to dependents, but they may be subject to local tax laws based on residency status.
FAQs
What is the processing time for family reunification?
- The residence authorization takes up to 45 days.
- The visa application process can take 1–3 months, depending on the consulate.
Can my spouse work in Spain?
Yes, once the family member obtains the TIE card, they can work without restrictions.
Can I bring my parents if they are under 65?
Generally, only parents over 65 qualify unless you can prove financial and medical dependency.
Can I apply for Spanish citizenship through family reunification?
- After one year of legal residence in Spain, spouses of Spanish citizens may apply for naturalization.
- Other family members must meet the standard residency requirements (typically 10 years).
Final Thoughts
Applying for a Family Reunification Visa in Spain requires careful preparation, but with the right documentation and understanding of the process, it can be a smooth experience. If you need guidance, consulting an immigration expert can help simplify the procedure and ensure compliance with Spanish laws.
