Spain family reunification visa guide

What Is Spain's Family Reunification Visa?

Spain allows people living in the country to bring certain family members to live with them. This is called family reunification. The person already in Spain (called the "sponsor") must meet specific requirements to bring relatives over. The most common relatives who can join are spouses, children, and sometimes parents or grandparents.

Who Can Sponsor a Family Member?

To sponsor someone, you generally need to:

• Be a legal resident or citizen of Spain
• Have stable housing in Spain
• Show you have enough income to support your family member
• Prove your family relationship with official documents

The exact income requirements and housing standards vary. Check Spain's official immigration website for current details specific to your situation.

Which Family Members Can Come?

You can typically sponsor:

• Your spouse or registered partner
• Your children (usually under 21, or older if dependent)
• In some cases, parents or grandparents (especially if they're elderly or need care)
• Adopted children with proper legal documentation

Each country has slightly different rules about which relatives qualify, so confirm what Spain currently accepts.

What Documents Do You Need?

Gather these common documents:

• Proof of your legal residence in Spain
• Proof of your relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate)
• Financial documents showing stable income
• Proof of housing (rental agreement or property deed)
• Medical check-ups and police clearance for the family member
• Passport or travel document

Requirements can change, so ask the Spanish consulate in your home country for a complete, current list.

How Does the Process Work?

Generally, you'll need to:

1. Gather all required documents

2. Submit your application to the Spanish immigration office

3. Wait for approval

4. Your family member applies for the visa at a Spanish consulate

5. Your family member travels to Spain and completes registration

Processing times vary widely. Some applications take weeks; others take months. Start early and follow up regularly with officials.

Where Do You Apply?

Contact the Spanish consulate or embassy nearest you in your home country. You can also find information on Spain's official immigration and public administration website. Many consulates let you check application status online or by phone.

Next Steps

• Visit the official Spanish government immigration portal
• Contact your nearest Spanish consulate for specific requirements
• Prepare documents early—this process takes time
• Keep copies of everything you submit

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