Kingdom of Spain · family
Family reunification (Spain)
Residence permit for family members of Spanish residents; arreigo (settled-status) routes also available.
Last reviewed:
Overview
Spain operates family reunification (reagrupación familiar) for spouses and children of legally resident non-EU nationals, alongside EU-family routes for spouses of EU nationals. Multiple arraigo routes (familiar, laboral, social, formación) allow regularisation after qualifying residence in Spain.
Government fees
Variable.
Typical duration
Matches sponsor; leads to settlement.
Primary source
Ministerio — Family reunification · Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security and Migrations
Link last verified:
Eligibility
Typical criteria
Sponsor legally resident in Spain for the qualifying period.
Adequate housing and income.
Common blockers
Sponsor's residence not meeting time threshold.
Housing report unfavourable.
Typical evidence
Marriage/birth certificates.
Sponsor's residence card and income evidence.
Application pathway
Step 1
Sponsor applies for reunification authorisation
Submit to Oficina de Extranjería.
Step 2
Family applies for visa at consulate
With authorisation reference.
Step 3
Travel and TIE
Register on arrival.
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Frequently asked questions
What are Spain's arraigo routes?
Arraigo allows regularisation after continuous residence in Spain, with different sub-routes for family, employment, social integration, and training. The 2022 reform added arraigo por formación for those pursuing vocational training.
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