Family reunification: requirements for bringing your family to Spain

The family reunification procedure allows a foreign resident to apply for certain relatives to live with them in Spain. This differs from residence for relatives of Spanish citizens and the EU family residence card: the sponsor’s nationality and permit determine the appropriate route.

Which relatives can you bring to Spain?

Eligible categories include spouses or partners under the accepted conditions, children and other minors or legally represented persons in the cases provided for, and certain ascendants. Age, dependency, custody and family circumstances matter. There is no general right to bring any sibling, cousin or friend through this ordinary procedure.

Reunification of ascendants has specific conditions concerning the sponsor’s authorisation, dependency and age. Humanitarian exceptions must be justified. Check eligibility before ordering certificates or booking travel.

Sponsor’s residence, income and housing

As a general rule, the sponsor must have legally resided in Spain for at least one year and apply for authorisation to reside for another year, subject to special rules for certain permits. Having an assigned NIE does not prove this requirement.

Required resources depend on household size. The general rule is 150% of IPREM for two members, plus 50% for each additional member, with special rules and flexibility, especially for minors. Check the current IPREM and the full circumstances before applying a figure.

Suitable housing and the required health coverage must also be proven. The competent authority issues the housing report. Any difficulties concerning its issuance must be justified through the prescribed procedure; photographs of the flat do not simply replace it.

Family reunification documents

• EX-02 form, passports and the sponsor’s residence authorisation.
• Marriage, birth, partnership or legal representation certificates, according to the relationship.
• Proof of income and stable resources: payslips, contracts, business activity or relevant financial documents.
• Housing report and proof of occupancy of the home.
• Evidence of dependency, custody or consent from the other parent where required.
• Fee receipts and health documents appropriate to the case.

Authorisation in Spain and the relative’s visa

The sponsor usually applies at the Immigration Office in their province. After approval, the relative applies for a visa at the competent consulate within the applicable time limit. Consular documents, including criminal record certificates or medical certificates where required, are checked at that stage.

Once the visa is granted, enter Spain during its validity and apply for the TIE within the relevant deadline. The initial authorisation, visa and card are separate stages: prepare each one and keep the receipts.

Work and continuing residence

Authorisations for certain reunited relatives permit work upon reaching working age, under the legal conditions. Renewal depends on maintaining the applicable requirements. Family breakdown or eligibility for an independent permit requires specific assessment.