Family Reunification in Spain

Who Can You Sponsor for Family Reunification in Spain?

Did you know that Spain is home to over 5 million immigrants, with family reunification being one of the most common reasons for moving to the country? If you are a legal resident of Spain, you have the opportunity to bring your loved ones closer through the Family Reunification Visa. Here's a detailed look at who you can sponsor to join you in Spain.

Eligible Relationships for Sponsorship

To ensure that your family members can join you legally and promptly, it's essential to understand which relationships are eligible for sponsorship. Here's a breakdown:

Key Requirements and Process

For each category, certain documents and proofs are required. Here's a quick list of what's needed:

• Proof of Relationship: Marriage certificate, birth certificate, or legal guardianship documents.
• Financial Stability: Evidence that you can financially support your family members without relying on public funds. See our Financial Requirements guide for detailed information.
• Health Insurance: Comprehensive coverage for your family members in Spain.
• Accommodation: Proof of adequate housing in Spain.

How to Apply

Applying for family reunification involves several steps. Begin by reviewing the How To Apply guide. You'll need to submit an application with all the necessary documents to the Spanish consulate in your home country.

1. Gather Documents: Collect all required proofs of relationship, financial stability, and accommodation.
2. Submit Application: Complete the application process at the Spanish consulate or embassy.
3. Await Approval: Processing times can vary, so check the Processing Times for updates.

By understanding who you can sponsor and the detailed requirements, you’re one step closer to reuniting with your loved ones in Spain. For more on specific visa types, visit the Family Reunification Visa page.

Marriage and Civil Partnership

• Marriage Certificate: A certified copy of your marriage certificate is essential if you are applying as a spouse. This document should be translated into Spanish and, if applicable, apostilled.
• Civil Partnership Registration: For those in a registered civil partnership, provide the official registration document. It should meet the same translation and apostille requirements as a marriage certificate.

Cohabitation Proof

• Joint Lease or Mortgage Agreements: If you and your partner share a residence, evidence of joint leasing or ownership can substantiate your cohabitation claim.
• Utility Bills: Provide utility bills in both names as further proof of shared living arrangements. This could include electricity, water, or internet bills.
• Joint Bank Statements: Statements from a joint bank account can also demonstrate financial cohabitation and interdependence.

Financial Interdependence

• Shared Financial Accounts: As mentioned, joint bank accounts are significant evidence of financial interdependence.
• Insurance Policies: Documentation of shared health or life insurance policies, naming each other as beneficiaries, supports your application.
• Shared Rental Agreements: If applicable, contracts showing shared financial responsibilities are useful.

Additional Evidence

• Photographs: Submit photos together, particularly those taken at significant family events or holidays. These should demonstrate a long-term relationship.
• Communication Records: Provide evidence of ongoing communication such as emails, messages, or call logs that reflect the relationship's history and continuity.

For comprehensive details on the Family Reunification Visa, consult the Documents Checklist to ensure all necessary evidence is gathered. Additionally, understanding the appropriate Financial Requirements will help substantiate financial interdependence claims. Each of these documents strengthens your application, ensuring alignment with Spain's immigration standards.

Financial Requirements for Family Reunification in Spain

When considering family reunification in Spain, it's crucial to understand the financial requirements involved. The Spanish government requires sponsors to meet certain income and financial thresholds to ensure they can adequately support their family members. Below, we outline the key financial requirements for this process.

Income Thresholds

To sponsor a family member, you must meet specific income thresholds. These thresholds are designed to ensure that the sponsor can support their family without relying on public funds. Here is a breakdown of the income requirements:

IPREM is a benchmark used in Spain to calculate the eligibility for certain benefits and subsidies. As of 2023, the monthly IPREM is approximately €600. Therefore, the sponsor must earn at least €900 per month for the first family member and an additional €300 for each subsequent member.

Savings and Maintenance Funds

In addition to regular income, having sufficient savings can also demonstrate financial capability. While there is no set amount specified for savings, it can be beneficial to have a substantial amount in your bank account to cover unexpected expenses.

How to Demonstrate Financial Capability?

To prove your financial situation, you will need to provide:

• Recent bank statements showing regular income deposits
• Employment contracts or pay slips to verify stable employment
• Tax returns to confirm your annual income
• Any other relevant financial documents that can support your application

Related Visas and Guides

If you are planning to bring your family to Spain, it's also important to familiarize yourself with the Family Reunification Visa process and its requirements. You may also find it beneficial to consult the Documents Checklist and the Financial Requirements guide for detailed information.

Understanding these financial requirements is crucial for a successful family reunification process in Spain. Ensure that you meet the income thresholds and have adequate savings to support your application.

Filing the Petition for Family Reunification

1. Determine Eligibility: Before starting the application process, ensure that you meet the criteria for family reunification in Spain. Typically, this involves having legal residency in Spain and demonstrating sufficient financial resources and suitable housing for family members.

2. Obtain and Complete Form EX-02: The application begins with the completion of the EX-02 form. This is the official request for family reunification and must be filled out accurately.

3. Submit the Application: Submit the completed form along with required documents to the Spanish immigration office. Depending on your location, this might be done online or in person. Consult the Documents Checklist for a comprehensive list of necessary paperwork, which generally includes proof of residency, income, and housing.

Document Submission and Interviews

4. Gather Supporting Documents: Collect all necessary documentation to support your application. This typically includes:

   • Photocopy of your residency card
   • Proof of financial means, such as bank statements or employment contracts
   • Evidence of family relationship, like marriage or birth certificates
   • Housing documentation demonstrating adequate living conditions

5. Schedule and Attend an Interview: After submitting your application, you may be required to attend an interview. The interview process helps verify the authenticity of the provided documents and the genuineness of the family relationship.

6. Biometrics Appointment: As part of the application process, your family members may need to attend a biometrics appointment. This involves fingerprinting and taking photographs for identity verification.

Processing and Resolution

7. Await Application Processing: The processing time for family reunification visas can vary. Refer to the Processing Times for an estimate based on current workloads. During this period, authorities will assess your application and may request additional information.

8. Receive the Decision: Once the application has been processed, you will receive a decision. If approved, your family members will be granted a visa allowing them to travel to Spain and join you.

9. Post-Approval Steps: After arrival in Spain, your family members will need to apply for their residency cards. This involves registering with local authorities and may require additional documentation.

For more information on related visas, consider exploring other options like the Non Lucrative Visa if you or your family members plan extended stays in Spain without employment. Understanding the various visa types, such as the Long Term Residence permit, can also be beneficial for long-term planning.

What Are the Processing Times for Family Reunification in Spain?

When applying for a Family Reunification Visa in Spain, understanding the processing times is crucial. Typically, the processing time can vary based on several factors, including the specific family relationship and current workload of the immigration offices.

What Affects the Speed of Processing?

Several factors can impact the processing time for a Family Reunification Visa:

• Priority Categories: Applicants who are reuniting with family members who are already Spanish citizens or have a Long Term Residence status may find their applications processed more swiftly.

• Completeness of Application: Ensuring that all required documents are submitted correctly and completely can significantly impact the speed of processing. You can refer to the Documents Checklist to ensure you have everything ready.

• Local Office Workload: Each consulate or immigration office may have varying workloads, which can affect how quickly your application is processed. Some applicants may experience longer waiting times if their local office is particularly busy.

How Can You Track Your Application?

Once you have submitted your application, it is possible to track the status through the official channels provided during your application process. Keeping regular contact with the consulate or immigration office where you submitted your application can also provide updates on your application's progress.

If you need further assistance or guidance on tracking your application, consider reviewing the Processing Times guide for detailed information.

By understanding these factors and preparing your application thoroughly, you can help ensure a smoother process for reuniting with your family in Spain.

Work Rights While Waiting

When you apply for family reunification in Spain, your rights to work can be limited until your application is approved. Typically, you cannot engage in employment until you receive your family reunification visa. However, if you hold a different type of visa, such as a National Work Visa, you may continue to work under the terms of that visa while your application is pending.

Travel Restrictions

Waiting for your family reunification application to be processed can impose travel restrictions. Generally, it is advised not to leave Spain if you are currently in the country on a different visa, as exiting could complicate your application process. If travel is necessary, ensure you have the appropriate re-entry permits or visas, such as a Schengen Tourist Visa, to avoid legal complications upon re-entry.

Implied Status and Bridging Visas

Spain does not offer a specific "bridging visa" that allows for status maintenance while transitioning between visa types. However, applying for a family reunification visa can imply a continuation of your current status, particularly if you are within Spain on a valid visa. This implied status can help you remain legally in the country until a decision is made on your application.

For detailed guidance on these processes, you may refer to our Visa Extension Guide and Visa Refusal Reasons to understand potential hurdles and how to address them efficiently.

Conditional vs Permanent Status in Family Reunification

Upon approval of your Family Reunification Visa, your initial residence status in Spain will typically be temporary. This status allows you to reside in the country legally but comes with certain conditions. Generally, this temporary status lasts for one year, after which you may apply for renewal. Renewal applications are crucial to maintain your legal status and should be submitted before your current permit expires.

To transition from temporary to permanent residence, you must meet specific criteria, including the duration of stay and proof of financial stability. Typically, after five years of continuous legal residence, you may become eligible for a Long Term Residence permit, which grants more stability and fewer restrictions. For more details on transitioning to permanent residence, you can refer to the Long Term Residence page.

Residence Requirements and Restrictions

As a holder of a Family Reunification Visa, you must adhere to certain residence requirements to maintain your status. These include:

• Continuous Residence: You must reside in Spain continuously. Prolonged absences could jeopardize your status.
• Renewal Deadlines: Renew your permit within the stipulated timelines to avoid lapses in your legal status.
• Financial and Social Integration: Demonstrating sufficient financial means and integration into Spanish society may be necessary for renewals.

Can You Work in Spain on a Family Reunification Visa?

Initially, your ability to work in Spain under a Family Reunification Visa may be restricted. However, after meeting certain conditions, such as residing in Spain for a specific period, you may be eligible to apply for a work authorization. This can open opportunities for various employment types, including National Work or even transitioning to a Highly Qualified visa if you meet the necessary criteria.

For a comprehensive understanding of the documents required for renewals and work authorizations, you can reference the Documents Checklist and the How To Apply guides.

From Family Visa to Permanent Residence

Upon obtaining a Family Reunification Visa in Spain, the journey towards permanent residence and eventually citizenship begins. Initially, the family member can reside in Spain under this visa, which allows them to live and work in the country. The typical duration of a Family Reunification Visa is one year, after which it must be renewed.

Timeline to Permanent Residence

To transition from a temporary stay to permanent residence, you will need to follow these steps:

1. Renew the Family Reunification Visa: After the initial one-year period, you must renew your visa. This typically involves demonstrating that you continue to meet the requirements set forth at the time of your initial application.

2. Apply for Long-Term Residence: After five years of continuous and legal residence in Spain under the family reunification scheme, you can apply for a Long Term Residence permit. This permit allows you to live and work in Spain indefinitely, with rights similar to those of a Spanish citizen.

3. Citizenship Eligibility: Once you have held a long-term residence permit for five years, you may be eligible to apply for Spanish citizenship. The total period of residence required for citizenship is typically ten years, though there are exceptions for certain nationalities and situations.

Requirements for Permanent Residence

To successfully navigate from a Family Reunification Visa to permanent residence, ensure you meet the following requirements:

• Continuous Residence: You must have lived in Spain legally and continuously for five years.
• Financial Stability: Proof of sufficient income or financial resources to support yourself and your family.
• Legal Compliance: Demonstrate good conduct and adherence to Spanish laws throughout your stay.

For more detailed information on the renewal process and required documentation, refer to the Visa Extension Guide.

Comparing Visa Pathways

The journey from a Family Reunification Visa to permanent residence can be compared with other visa paths in Spain:

For those considering alternative routes, the Golden Visa offers quicker access to permanent residency, albeit with higher financial investment requirements.

Navigating the path from a family reunification visa to permanent residency in Spain requires careful planning and adherence to legal requirements. By understanding the timelines and obligations, you can make informed decisions to secure your future in Spain.

Insufficient Evidence

• Incomplete Documentation: Applications often get rejected due to missing or incomplete documentation. Ensure all required forms, such as the EX-02, are submitted fully completed and with the necessary supporting documents.

• Proof of Relationship: If you're applying for family reunification, you must provide comprehensive evidence of your relationship. This includes official marriage or birth certificates. Lack of such documentation can lead to a denial.

• Inadequate Legalization: Documents from outside Spain often need to be legalized or apostilled. Failure to do so can result in your application being refused.

Concerns About Sham Marriages

• Genuine Relationship: Authorities may suspect sham marriages if the relationship appears to be solely for immigration purposes. Be prepared to provide additional evidence, such as shared financial commitments, joint property ownership, or other proofs of a genuine relationship.

• Interview Inconsistencies: Inconsistencies or discrepancies in interviews may raise red flags. Make sure all parties are well-prepared and consistent in their accounts.

Financial and Medical Shortfalls

• Financial Requirements: You must meet specific financial criteria to sponsor a family member. If your income or savings don't meet these thresholds, your application may be rejected. For detailed financial guidelines, refer to the Visa Refusal Reasons.

• Health Insurance: Adequate health insurance coverage is mandatory. Lack of sufficient insurance can be a ground for refusal.

• Medical Issues: Any serious contagious diseases can lead to an application being denied. Ensure that you provide all necessary health documentation to avoid such issues.

Character Issues

• Criminal Record: A criminal record may prevent family reunification. Background checks are part of the application process, and any negative findings can result in refusal.

• False Information: Providing false or misleading information on your application is grounds for immediate denial and may impact future applications.

To navigate these challenges, you might consider consulting the How To Apply guide for comprehensive advice on preparing a strong application.

What is Family Reunification in Spain?

In Spain, family reunification is a process that allows non-EU residents to bring their family members to join them. To qualify, you must hold a valid Spanish residence permit and demonstrate the ability to financially support your relatives and provide adequate housing. This pathway is vital for maintaining family unity, especially for those who have moved to Spain for work or study. A typical scenario involves a non-EU citizen who, after securing a National Work Visa and establishing a stable life in Spain, wishes to reunite with their spouse and children.

Steps to Apply for Family Reunification

1. Verify Eligibility: Ensure that you hold a valid residence permit in Spain and have been residing legally for at least one year.
2. Prepare Documentation: Gather necessary documents such as proof of income, housing suitability, and family ties. Detailed requirements can be found in the Documents Checklist.
3. Submit Application: Complete and submit the EX-02 Form along with the supporting documents to the appropriate Spanish authorities.
4. Await Decision: After submission, the processing time can vary, but it's essential to monitor the status and respond to any requests for additional information.

Real-Life Example

Consider María, a Colombian citizen who came to Spain on a Long Term Residence Permit. After settling in and securing stable employment, she decided to initiate the family reunification process to bring her husband and two children from Bogotá. María ensured her documentation was complete, including proof of her stable income and a lease agreement for a spacious apartment. With her meticulous preparation, her family's reunification process was seamless.

For those considering family reunification, understanding the specific steps and preparing thoroughly can make the process more manageable. For more information on related visas, you might explore options like the Schengen Tourist Visa for short visits or the National Student Visa if family members plan to study.