Family members of Spanish citizens, citizens of other Member States of the European Union (EU), States party to the Agreement on the European Economic Area (EEA), or Swiss citizens who are not nationals of these countries must apply for and obtain a family member card if they intend to join or accompany the European citizen and will reside in Spain for a period of more than three months.

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A residence permit as a family member of an EU citizen is granted to those who have married or established a civil partnership with an EU citizen. Parents and children of EU citizens are also eligible to apply for this residence permit. The family ties that grant the right to a family member card and allow family reunification in Spain are the following:

 

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Spouse or civil partner: This person can be registered in a Public Registry or prove cohabitation, or have children together. It is important to note that the requirements for proving the relationship may vary by Autonomous Community.

Descendants: Minor children, and in some cases, dependent adults who are in the care of the applicant or their spouse/registered partner.

Ascendants: The applicant's parents or their spouse/registered partner, provided they can prove they are in the care of the applicant or the EU citizen.

Other relatives: In exceptional situations, other relatives may be considered, especially if there is a serious health or disability reason, or if they are in the care of or live with the applicant in the country of origin.

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This permit can be requested even if the person initially enters Spain as a tourist. Once approved, it grants a residence card valid for five years and also authorizes work in the country.

 

Benefits

 

1. Family reunification
Allows non-EU relatives of an EU citizen to live together in Spain, facilitating integration and family well-being.

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2. Residence and Work Permit

Family members can legally reside in Spain and work, which grants them financial independence and the ability to contribute to the labor market.

 

3. Access to Social Rights
By obtaining residency, family members can access essential public services such as healthcare, education, and other social benefits available to residents in Spain.

 

4. Long-Term Stability

The residence permit is valid for 5 years, providing security and stability to family members for an extended period, with the possibility of renewing or applying for nationality after a period of legal residence.

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Requirements

• Complete the corresponding application form.

• Valid passport or travel document (for the European citizen and the foreigner)

• Collective registration certificate.

• Documents proving the family relationship with the EU or EEA citizen.

• DNI (National Identity Document) or CUE (Currency Card) of the EU citizen using whom the procedure will be carried out.

• Three color photographs.

• Payment of the corresponding fee.

• Proof of sufficient financial resources will be taken into account.

Permission: Five years.

 

Post-grant procedures: Once your visa has been authorized, you must personally apply for the TIE (Foreigner Identity Card) at the Immigration Office or Police Station in the province where you applied for the authorization. This procedure must be completed within one month of receiving notification of the grant.