The family reunification in Spain is much more than a formality: it is the legal way that allows foreigners already residing in the country to reunite with loved ones and share their life together in a safe and stable environment.
With the entry into force of the new Alien Regulation in 2024The criteria and the procedure for applying for this permit have been updated, offering greater clarity and legal guarantees. In this guide I explain you, step by step, how to reunite your family in 2025 while complying with all the legal requirements.
What is family reunification?
It is a temporary residence authorization that allows certain family members of a foreign resident living legally in Spain. In addition, if they are of legal age, they will be able to working from day one without the need for additional permits.
Which family members can you regroup in 2025?
According to the new regulations, you will be able to regroup:
- 👫 You spouseYou must be 18 years of age or older if you are not separated or in a multiple marriage.
- 💑 You domestic partnerThe couple must be in an officially registered or demonstrably stable relationship of at least 12 months (this time is not required if they have children in common).
- 👶 Tus children under 18 years of ageor older if they have a disability or are unable to support themselves.
- 👧 Your partner's children, if you have sole custody or consent of the other parent.
- 👵 Tus parents o in-lawsIf they are over 65 years of age, if they are your dependents (under 65 years of age only for humanitarian reasons).
- 🧑🦽 A adult son to act as a caregiver if you have an officially recognized dependency.
- 🧒 People legally represented by youThe legal requirements are met by the legal guardianship or conservatorship.
You cannot regroup more than one partner or in situations of polygamy, even if your country of origin permits it.
Remember that you can always contact us from anywhere in the world.
Requirements to reunite your family
To apply, you must meet three essential requirements:
1. Adequate financial means
- 150 % of IPREM per month for you and the first family member (approx. €1,134/month in 2025).
- +50 % of IPREM for each additional member (about 378 €/month).
📝 In some cases (minors, persons with disabilities), these requirements may be reduced by applying the principle of the best interest of the minor or humanitarian reasons.
The income of your partner or resident relatives living with you can be added.
🏠 2. Adequate housing
You must prove that you have a habitable housing and with sufficient space. This is justified by a social report issued by the municipality or autonomous community, with a maximum age of 6 months.
🩺 3. Health insurance
You and your family members must have health coverage public or private.
No criminal record 🚫 4.
Both you and the family members you are regrouping cannot have a criminal record or pose a risk to public order.
Application Process for Family Reunification in Spain
The application for the residence permit for family reunification is made by the applicant or his legal representative, directly at the Immigration Office or telematically through the Mercurio platform.
Concession and Visa
Once the authorization is granted, the reunited family member must apply for a family reunification visa at the Spanish Consulate corresponding to his/her country of legal residence, within two months of notification of the grant. The documentation required for the visa includes passport, criminal record certificate, medical certificate and documents proving the family relationship.
Can my family member work upon arrival?
Yes. The spouse, partner or children of legal age are automatically authorized to work.The company's activities are carried out on its own account or for others, in any part of the Spanish territory. No additional labor formalities are required.
Renewal of family reunification
It may be renewed for 4 years if the requirements are maintained (income, housing, schooling of minors, family relationship).
The initial authorization will have the same duration as the applicant's duration.
Family reunification is a fundamental right that allows you to build a life in Spain with your loved ones. With the updated regulation for 2025, it is now clearer to know who you can regroup, what conditions you must meet and how to successfully complete the process.
It's not just about paperwork, it's about uniting families, ensuring stability and building a future together.
Can we help you with your paperwork?
At KR LAWYERS we guide you through the whole legal process to reunite your family in Spain:
📍 Online consulting from anywhere in the world.
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Telephone numbers: (+34) 612 48 40 27
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