10.04.2025 
Obtaining a family residence permit in Spain is one of the most popular ways of legal immigration for those who have family ties with Spanish citizens or legal residents of the country. The main "pains" of the potential reader are the need to collect an extensive package of documents, properly legalize and translate them, and also comply with all the requirements of the migration authorities. In this article, we will structurally examine what documents are required in different family reunification regimes and give recommendations on preparing an application.
1. General Family Reunification Regime
The general family reunification regime is intended for those who want to join a spouse, registered partner, or other close relative residing in Spain. For successful application processing, it is necessary that the inviting relative has legally resided in the country for at least one year and has a residence permit, as well as sufficient income and housing.
Key requirements:
– Legal permanent residence in Spain for at least 1 year.
– Availability of a residence permit with the possibility of extension (residence permit).
– Confirmation of sufficient monthly income (usually – 150% of the IPREM (Public Indicator of Multiple Effects Income) for the main applicant and 50% of the IPREM for each additional family member).
– Evidence of housing (own or rented).
The main package of documents includes:
– Completed and signed EX02 form (official application form) in duplicate.
– Passport with copies of all pages.
– NIE (Foreigner Identification Number).
– Documents confirming income and availability of housing.
– Certificates confirming kinship (marriage certificate, birth certificates, etc.).
2. Family Reunification with an EU Citizen
If the relative residing in Spain is an EU citizen, the reunification procedure is significantly simplified. No special reunification permit is required, and the documents themselves are processed in a simplified manner.
Features of the regime:
– No need to request a reunification permit.
– Free visa processing when applying in person at the consulate.
– Smaller list of documents.
Required documents:
– Completed and signed application form (for minors, completed by a parent or guardian).
– Passport with copies of all pages.
– Documents confirming kinship (marriage certificate, birth certificate, etc.).
– Copy of the national identity card DNI (National Identity Document) of the EU citizen.
3. Preparation and Legalization of Documents
Regardless of the chosen family reunification regime, it is crucial to properly prepare the package of documents. All documents issued abroad must be translated into Spanish and legalized or apostilled in accordance with the requirements of local authorities.
Key preparation points:
– Collection of a complete package of original and copies of documents.
– Mandatory translation into Spanish by a sworn translator.
– Legalization or apostille of documents depending on the country of issue.
– Timely submission of documents to the consulate or migration service (usually within 2 months after obtaining permission).
4. Family Roots – a Special Residence Permit Regime
In addition to standard family reunification, there is a mechanism in Spain for obtaining a residence permit under the "family roots" program. This regime is intended for persons who have special family ties with Spanish citizens or legal residents. Family roots allow you to obtain a temporary residence permit (usually for 1 year with the possibility of extension or for 5 years for certain categories).
Who can apply for family roots:
– Parents, spouses, or minor children of Spanish citizens.
– Persons dependent on a resident of Spain.
– Applicants who can confirm the fulfillment of parental responsibilities (for example, regular alimony payments or agreed visits).
Documents for family roots:
– Application on the official form (for example, EX-10 or EX-17, where the abbreviation is followed by the full name).
– Full copy of the passport with the required validity period.
– Certificate of no criminal record for the last 5 years.
– Documents confirming family ties (birth, marriage, adoption certificates, or other legal documents).
– Confirmation of payment of administrative fees (for example, 80 euros or another fixed fee).
– Passport-size photographs.
Particular attention should be paid to the fact that all documents issued abroad must be officially translated and certified. An error in the paperwork can lead to delays or denial of a residence permit.
5. Practical Recommendations for Obtaining a Family Residence Permit
For successful obtaining of a family residence permit in Spain, it is important to:
- Carefully prepare documents: Check the availability of all required copies, originals, translations, and certifications.
- Meet deadlines: The package of documents must be submitted within the specified time frame (usually no later than 2 months after obtaining permission).
- Consult with a specialist: Contacting a lawyer or immigration consultant will help to avoid mistakes when filling out the application.
- Keep track of changes in legislation: Immigration rules may be adjusted, so it is important to regularly update information.
- Comply with legalization requirements: Translations and apostille of documents are a mandatory step that cannot be skipped.
If a refusal occurs during the application process, it is possible to file an appeal or eliminate the identified reasons for the refusal and re-submit the documents. This procedure allows you to re-evaluate the case and, in most cases, achieve a positive decision.
Conclusion
A family residence permit in Spain is an effective way to legalize your stay in the country, reunite your family, and obtain the right to work and social guarantees. Whether you are applying under the general reunification regime or through the simplified procedure for EU citizens, the key factors remain the correct preparation of documents, their legalization, and compliance with all established requirements.
The family roots regime allows persons with special family ties to Spanish citizens or legal residents to obtain a residence permit. It is important to remember that mistakes in filling out the application can lead to delays or refusal, so it is recommended to consult with professional immigration lawyers.
The article is intended to provide a complete understanding of the necessary documents, registration steps, and basic requirements for obtaining a family residence permit in Spain. Compliance with all procedures and requirements will significantly increase the chances of a positive decision and ensure a stable future for the whole family.
