Bringing your spouse to Spain: marriage visa guide

What Is a Spain Marriage Visa?

A Spain marriage visa, also called a family reunification visa, allows your spouse to join you in Spain. This visa is for people who are legally married and want to live together in Spain long-term. Your spouse can work, study, and access public services once approved.

Spain recognizes marriages from most countries, but your marriage must be legal in both your home country and Spain. If you're already in Spain, you can apply from there. If your spouse is abroad, they apply at a Spanish embassy or consulate in their home country.

Who Can Apply?

Your spouse can apply if:

• You are legally married with valid marriage documents
• You have stable income or savings to support your household
• You have suitable housing for both of you
• You've been married for a reasonable time (not just weeks)
• Your spouse is not a Spanish or EU citizen (EU citizens have different rules)

You need to prove your relationship is genuine and that you plan to live together permanently in Spain.

Required Documents

You'll typically need to submit:

• Valid passports for both you and your spouse
• Original marriage certificate with official translation
• Proof of your residency in Spain
• Evidence of stable income (pay stubs, bank statements, employment contract)
• Proof of suitable housing (lease agreement or property ownership)
• Police clearance certificates
• Medical examination results
• Photographs of you and your spouse together
• Completed visa application forms

Every document from outside Spain usually needs an official translation into Spanish. Ask your local Spanish consulate for their exact checklist since requirements vary by country.

The Application Process

Step 1: Gather all required documents and get translations done.

Step 2: Your spouse submits the application at the Spanish consulate in their home country or, if you prefer, at your local immigration office in Spain.

Step 3: The consulate reviews your application, which can take several weeks to months.

Step 4: You may be called for an interview to confirm your relationship is real.

Step 5: If approved, your spouse receives a visa and can travel to Spain.

Step 6: Upon arrival, your spouse must register with Spanish local authorities.

What Happens After Approval?

Once your spouse arrives in Spain, they should register at the town hall (Ayuntamiento). They'll receive a residence certificate (certificado de empadronamiento) and can then get a foreigner identification number (NIE). With the NIE, your spouse can open a bank account, find a job, and access healthcare.

Your spouse's initial visa usually lasts one or two years. After that, they can apply to renew or pursue permanent residency.

Important Tips

• Start gathering documents early—official translations take time
• Keep copies of everything
• Check your consulate's website for their specific requirements
• Contact immigration offices directly with questions about your situation

This is general self-help information, not legal advice. Always verify current rules on the official government website.