Learn how to obtain Family Reunification in Spain.
Are you a foreign individual residing in Spain, yearning to bring your loved ones closer? Then learn how to obtain Family reunification in Spain. The Spanish immigration system recognizes the importance of family bonds and offers a pathway known as family reunification. This process allows legally residing individuals to unite with their family members in the Spanish territory. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the intricate journey of family reunification in Spain, covering essential aspects, eligibility criteria, application procedures, and more.
As we’ve discussed before, Spanish immigration law grants foreign individuals legally residing in Spain the right to reunify their families. However, certain requirements must be met by both the resident in Spain (the sponsor) and the foreign family members joining them (the sponsored) to achieve this.
This type of authorization often raises questions among our clients. Let’s summarize the general conditions and address the most frequent inquiries.
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In this post we cover the following: (click any section to see its content)
- WHO CAN APPLY FOR FAMILY REUNIFICATION? »
- WHICH FAMILY MEMBERS CAN BE REUNITED? »
- WHERE DO I APPLY FOR FAMILY REUNIFICATION? »
- IS EMPLOYMENT PERMITTED? »
- CAN FAMILY REUNIFIED MEMBERS SPONSOR OTHERS? »
- HOW CAN FAMILY REUNIFIED MEMBERS OBTAIN INDEPENDENT PERMITS? »
- HOW CAN YOU APPLY FOR FAMILY REUNIFICATION RESIDENCE? »
LEARN WHO CAN APPLY FOR FAMILY REUNIFICATION?
Any foreign citizen residing in Spain for at least one year with a valid one-year residence permit can initiate this process. Holders of long-term EU permits, Blue Cards, or special researcher status are exempt. Notably, for reuniting with parents, the sponsor must possess a Long-Term Residence Authorization in Spain.
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WHICH FAMILY MEMBERS CAN BE REUNITED WITH FAMILY REUNIFICATION?
Eligible Family Reunification in Spain family members include:
- Spouse or partner with an analogous relationship (registration or proof required).
- Minor children, including adopted ones (with Spanish adoption effects) incapable of self-sufficiency due to health.
- Dependents represented by the sponsor, incapable of self-sufficiency due to health.
- First-degree ascendants (parents, grandparents) over 65, under certain conditions.
Humanitarian reasons allow reuniting ascendants under 65. Cases like cohabitation in the home country, incapacity, or joint applications of ascendant spouses over 65 qualify. Other cases like nieces, adult children, and non-spouse partners require alternative pathways for regularization.
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LEARN WHERE TO APPLY FOR FAMILY REUNIFICATION?
The process can be done in-person or online, though the latter is recommended for quicker processing.
Required documents include an application form, proof of family relationships, valid passports, proof of economic means, proof of suitable housing, and, in some cases, sworn statements. For family members abroad, obtaining a visa at the Spanish Consulate is essential before entry.
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IS IT PERMITTED TO BE EMPLOYED WITH FAMILY REUNIFICTION?
Spouses, partners, and qualifying children can work with their residence permits. Renewal can be requested within 60 days before expiry, accompanied by financial proofs. A 3-month renewal processing window is given.
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CAN FAMILY REUNIFIED MEMBERS SPONSOR OTHER PEOPLE TO OBTAIN RESIDENCY?
Yes, but only if an independent residence and work permit is held by the regrouper, if they meet family reunification criteria, and, for ascendants, hold a long-term work permit.
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HOW CAN FAMILY REUNIFIED MEMBERS OBTAIN INDEPENDENT PERMITS?
Spouses and partners can apply for work authorization or non-lucrative residency. Adult children need self-sufficiency, work contracts, or self-employment eligibility. Ascendants can apply for work permits. Remember, the family reunification process is intricate and vital to get right. Seek professional guidance to navigate it successfully.
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Please see-here our video-blog with options and legal-advice to obtain residency in Spain.
HOW CAN YOU APPLY FOR FAMILY REUNIFICATION RESIDENCE?
If you want to make a Family Reunification Residence Application in Spain.
We are a Spanish Solicitor and assist our clients with all types of residency applications.
Permanent residency is obtained after 5 years of Spanish Residency through Self-Employed Residency, Digital-Nomad, Non-Lucrative Residency or Golden-Visa. This followed by 5 years as a permanent resident in Spain and means you can then obtain Spanish Citizenship with a Spanish Passport.
