Family reunification

Family reunification (general regime)

Allows a foreign national with legal residence in Spain to bring their immediate family members (spouse or partner, children and dependent ascendants). Regulated by the new Immigration Regulation (RD 1155/2024).

General guidance. This is not legal advice. Requirements depend on the regulations in force (Arts. 65 a 68 RD 1155/2024) and on your specific case. Confirm it with the authorities or a professional before starting any procedure.

Who is it for?

Spouse or registered/proven de facto partner of the sponsor; minor children (or dependent adult children, up to 26 years old) of the sponsor or the spouse, with no age limit if they have a disability; and dependent ascendants over 65 years old.

Main requirements

  • The reunified family member is a national of a country outside the EU/EEA
  • The sponsor resides legally in Spain (at least one year and with a permit renewed for another year)
  • There must be a reunifiable family tie: spouse or partner, minor or dependent child, or dependent ascendant
  • The sponsor must prove sufficient financial means for the family unit
  • The reunified family member of legal age must have no criminal record

Duration

Temporary residence permit linked to that of the sponsor; the initial card is issued for the time remaining on the sponsor's permit and is renewable.

Usual documentation

  • Official application form (form EX-02) in duplicate
  • Full copy of the valid passport of both the sponsor and the reunified family member
  • Copy of the sponsor's residence permit (prior legal residence of at least one year, renewed for another)
  • Documentation proving the family tie (marriage, registered partnership, birth or dependency), legalised and translated
  • Proof of the sponsor's sufficient financial means
  • Report proving that adequate housing is available
  • Health insurance or equivalent public healthcare coverage
  • Criminal record certificate of the reunified family member of legal age

Authority: Immigration Office (Oficina de Extranjería) of the sponsor's province of residence; visa at the Spanish consulate in the country of origin.

Legal basis: Arts. 65 a 68 RD 1155/2024