The process of family reunification in Spain

Family reunification is a right that allows foreigners residing in Spain to legally bring certain family members to live with them. Its main objective is to guarantee family unity and promote the social integration of those who have settled in the country.

This right is regulated by the Immigration Law and its regulations and can only be exercised by foreigners who have a renewed residence permit and meet certain economic and housing requirements. In other words, not all foreigners can be reunited: they must have legally resided in Spain for at least one year and be authorized to reside for another year.

Family members who can be reunited generally include:

Spouse or common-law partner.
Children under 18 or incapacitated.
Children of the spouse or common-law partner who are minors or incapacitated.
First-degree ascendants (parents) when they are in the care of the sponsor and there are justified reasons.

It’s important to keep in mind that family reunification isn’t just an administrative process: it involves strictly complying with the requirements and demonstrating to the administration that cohabitation and financial support are guaranteed.

Deadlines and process for applying for reunification

The family reunification process in Spain consists of several stages and deadlines that must be met for the application to be accepted.

First, the sponsor must apply for a residence permit for family reunification from the Immigration Office in their place of residence. This process cannot be initiated if the sponsor does not meet the requirements regarding length of residence, financial means, and living conditions.

The stages of the process in Spain are as follows.

Submission of the application and documents

The documentation includes the official form, a copy of the passport, residence card, registration certificate, rental agreement or property deed, financial means (payslips, tax returns, etc.), and documents proving the family relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate, etc.). In some cases, these documents must be legalized and translated.

Resolution of the authorization

The administration has 45 days to respond. If there is no response within this period, it is deemed denied due to negative administrative silence, so it is important to follow up on the case.

Visa application in the country of origin

If the authorization is approved, the family member wishing to reunite must apply for a visa at the Spanish consulate in their country of origin, presenting the favorable resolution and the rest of the required documentation.

Entry into Spain and TIE application

Once the visa has been granted, the family member has three months to enter Spain. Afterward, they must apply for a Foreigner’s Identity Card (TIE) at the appropriate police station.

Meeting deadlines is key: delays at any of these stages may mean having to restart the procedure.