With the entry into force of the reform of the Immigration Regulations on May 20, 2025, significant changes will be introduced regarding the requirements for Spanish citizens who wish to bring their parents to live in Spain. These changes affect both the procedure and the conditions that must be met.
What exactly is changing?
Starting May 20, 2025:
-
Visa application will be mandatory: The reunification process must be initiated through a visa application at the appropriate consulate; it can no longer be processed from within Spain.
-
Stricter economic requirements: Until now, it was only necessary to prove financial dependence for parents under 65 years of age. With the reform, this requirement extends to all parents under 80 years old.
-
This means only parents aged 80 or older will be exempt from proving financial dependence—they will only need to demonstrate they are “under the care” of the Spanish citizen.
Planning to bring your parents to Spain? Don’t let these changes catch you off guard. For expert help with your immigration paperwork, contact us today at info@sternaabogados.com.
What does this reform imply?
This new regulation introduces several key points to consider:
-
Mandatory consular processing: The reunification process must now begin and be completed at the Spanish consulate in the parent’s country of origin or residence.
-
Increased burden of proof: For parents under 80, you’ll need to provide strong evidence of financial dependence, such as:
-
Regular bank transfers.
-
Proof of remittances.
-
Documentation showing you cover basic living expenses (housing, food, healthcare, etc.).
-
Why are these changes being made?
The reform aims to:
-
Align immigration processes with a more uniform and controlled system initiated outside Spanish territory.
-
Harmonize family reunification standards with broader European norms.
-
Ensure that reunified family members truly rely on the applicant and do not become an added burden on Spain’s social welfare system.
How can you plan for reunification under the new rules?
If you’re considering bringing your parents to live with you in Spain, it’s essential to:
-
Prepare all required documentation well in advance.
-
Ensure you can prove financial dependence if your parents are under 80.
-
Consult with a specialized immigration lawyer to build the right strategy, tailored to the consulate’s specific requirements.
Conclusion
Family reunification for parents of Spanish citizens will face major changes starting May 20, 2025. It will be mandatory to apply through a consulate, and proving financial dependence will become essential for parents under 80 years old. These new requirements demand careful planning and a thorough understanding of the consular process.
At Sterna Abogados, we’re ready to guide you every step of the way. If you want to bring your parents to Spain without hassle, contact us today at info@sternaabogados.com. Let us help make your family reunification a reality.