Family reunification requirements: financial means and housing

One of the points that raises the most questions when bringing your family to Spain is the family reunification requirements regarding financial means: how much money you have to prove and how it is calculated. Under the new Immigration Regulation (RD 1155/2024, in force since 20 May 2025), the person applying for reunification must prove sufficient and stable financial resources to support the family unit, as well as adequate housing. In this guide we explain, for general guidance and with examples, what is required and how to justify it.

What financial means mean in family reunification

The financial means are the proof that the sponsor (the person who already resides legally in Spain) can support the relatives they want to bring over without relying on social assistance. Occasional income is not enough: the Administration assesses whether it is sufficient, regular and likely to continue throughout the period of residence being requested.

This route falls under the general regime for family reunification. It is different from the EU regime (family member of an EU citizen), where proving resources works under different rules. First make sure which case applies to you, because the amounts and the documents change.

Family reunification requirements: financial means required (IPREM)

The amount of financial means for family reunification is calculated using the IPREM as a reference. The minimum monthly amount depends on the number of people who will make up the family unit once reunification takes place:

• Family unit of 2 members (sponsor + 1 relative): as a general rule, 150% of the monthly IPREM is required.
• For each additional member to be reunited: an extra 50% of the monthly IPREM is added.

As a rough reference, with a monthly IPREM of 600 euros, a unit of 2 people would need around 900 euros/month, and each additional relative would add about 300 euros/month. The IPREM is updated every year, so it is best to check the amount in force at the time of filing the application, because the exact calculation depends on it.

Calculation examples based on the number of relatives

• Reuniting with your spouse (2 people): 150% IPREM.
• Spouse + 1 child (3 people): 150% IPREM + 50% IPREM.
• Spouse + 2 children (4 people): 150% IPREM + 50% + 50% IPREM.

Remember that both the relatives already living with you in Spain and those you are going to reunite with are counted, in order to determine the total size of the family unit.

Adequate housing requirements

Alongside the financial means, you must prove that you have adequate housing to meet the needs of the sponsor and the family. This is demonstrated with the housing adequacy report, issued by the Autonomous Community or, where applicable, by the Local Corporation (Town Hall) of the place of residence.

The report assesses aspects such as the number of rooms and their use, habitability conditions, the fittings and the title that entitles you to occupy the home (ownership or rental). If the competent Administration does not issue the report within the deadline, it can be replaced by a mixed notarial act, as provided for in the regulations.

Documents to prove financial means

The way to justify your resources depends on your employment situation. These are the most common documents:

• Employed workers: employment contract, latest payslips, work-life history report (vida laboral) and, where applicable, income tax return (IRPF).
• Self-employed workers (autonomos): proof of registration for the activity, quarterly/annual tax returns and evidence of income from the activity.
• Other sources: rental income, savings or income not derived from work can count if they show continuity and sufficiency.

The key is to convey stability: regular income during the previous months and with the expectation of continuing throughout the year of residence being sought.

How income is counted

The resources contributed by the sponsor are taken into account and, where the regulations allow, those of the spouse or partner living in Spain. Resources coming from social assistance or benefits intended to cover basic needs are not accepted as means of support. The assessment is overall: the family unit's total income is compared against the threshold that applies for the number of members.

Frequently asked questions about financial means and reunification

How much money do I need to reunite with my family in Spain?

As a general rule, 150% of the monthly IPREM for a unit of two people, plus 50% of the IPREM for each additional relative. The specific figure depends on the IPREM in force in the year of the application.

Are savings enough to prove financial means?

Savings and other income can be counted if they show sufficiency and continuity, but the usual and strongest option is to prove regular income (payslips or self-employed activity).

Can I add the income of my spouse who already lives in Spain?

Yes. Under the general regime, the resources of the spouse or partner who resides and lives with you in Spain can be taken into account, provided they are properly documented.

What happens if I do not reach the required amount?

If you do not prove sufficient means, the application may be refused. It is best to carefully review the calculation based on the number of relatives and gather all the documents before filing.

Is the housing report mandatory?

Yes. Adequate housing is a requirement, and it is proven by the report issued by the Autonomous Community or the Town Hall, or exceptionally by a notarial act when that report is not issued within the deadline.

Disclaimer

This guide is for general guidance only and does not replace individual legal advice. The IPREM amounts, the assessment criteria and the documents may vary and depend on each specific case and the competent office. Before filing your application, check the amounts in force and, if in doubt, consult an immigration professional or the Administration.