If you’re living legally in Spain and wish to bring your family members to join you, the family reunification process allows you to do so under the Spanish immigration law. Whether it’s your spouse, children, or parents, this visa offers the opportunity to reunite your loved ones and help them build a new life with you in Spain.
Who Can You Reunite with in Spain?
Spanish law permits you to bring specific family members as long as you meet the eligibility requirements. You can apply for reunification with:
Spouse or Registered Partner: You may reunite with your legally married spouse or civil partner. In the case of registered partnerships, you must prove the legal registration of your union.
Children Under 18: You may include your children or those of your spouse/partner, provided they are under 18 years of age. In special cases, dependent children with disabilities over 18 may also qualify.
Parents Over 65: You can reunite your parents or those of your spouse, provided they are over 65 years old and you have legally resided in Spain for at least five years. You must also prove that they are financially dependent on you.
Eligibility Requirements for Family Reunification Visa
To be eligible to apply, you must meet the following conditions:
- Have resided legally in Spain for at least 1 year and have a renewed residence permit.
- Show sufficient financial means to support the family members you are bringing.
- Provide proof of suitable housing where your family can live comfortably.
- Demonstrate that your family members have no criminal record in their country of origin or previous residence.
- Your relatives must be outside of Spain at the time of the application.
⚠️ If your relatives are already in Spain, this process is not applicable. Contact us to explore the legal options available in that case.
Documents You Need to Apply
- Completed application form (EX–02)
- Your valid residency card and passport
- Proof of income (e.g., job contract, tax returns)
- Housing report from the local town hall
- Birth/marriage certificates proving the relationship
- Health insurance for family members
- Clean criminal record certificates
- Copy of passports for all family members
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, if you are in a registered civil partnership or can prove a stable relationship and shared residency.
The required income varies based on how many family members you are bringing. As a reference, for one family member, you should earn at least 150% of the IPREM, which in 2025 is approximately €1,050/month.
It usually takes 45 working days for the immigration office to issue a resolution. After that, visa issuance by the consulate may take up to 1 month.
How to Apply for Family Reunification in Spain
- Submit your application to the Immigration Office (Oficina de Extranjería) in the province where you reside.
- Wait for the resolution. The standard response time is 45 working days.
- Once approved, your family member will receive a notification letter.
- They must then apply for a visa at the Spanish Consulate in their country of origin.
- Upon arrival in Spain, they must:
- Register at the local town hall (empadronamiento)
- Apply for the TIE (residency card)
What Happens If My Application Is Denied?
If your application is rejected, you have the right to file an appeal. Our legal team can guide you through the appeal process and assess whether the rejection was based on fixable issues, such as documentation errors or insufficient proof.
Why Choose Sterna Abogados to Assist You
At Sterna Abogados, we are experts in immigration law in Spain. Our multilingual team has helped thousands of families navigate the reunification process successfully. We offer personalized guidance from start to finish — from preparing documentation to submitting appeals if necessary.
📞 Contact us today to schedule a consultation
📧 Email: info@sternaabogados.com