Family Reunification Visa Spain

What is Spain Family Reunification Visa?

The Spain Family Reunion Visa allows non-EU nationals legally residing in Spain to reunite with close family members, promoting family unity for individuals who have moved to Spain.

The Family Reunification Visa for Spain offers legal residence, access to public services, the right to work for certain family members, and a pathway to long-term residency. The application process requires initial authorisation from the government, proof of financial stability, adequate housing, and health insurance for family members without public healthcare access.

To qualify, sponsors must have lived in Spain for at least a year and hold a valid residence permit. Eligible family members include spouses, children under 18, and dependent parents over 65. The visa does not apply to EU citizens’ family members.

Nigerian Emigration

For Nigerian emigration matters, please call +2342013306361 or +44 (0) 3316300929

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Family Members Who Can Obtain a Spain Family Reunification Visa

The Spain Family Reunification Visa supports Nigerians and non-EU nationals legally residing in Spain to bring their close family members to live with them. Sponsors must be non-EU citizens with a residence permit valid for at least one year.

Not all family members will qualify for this visa, so it is important to make sure you intend to bring family members who are eligible according to the criteria outlined below:

• Spouse/Civil Partner: The spouse must not be separated in fact or law. Proof of divorce is required for previous marriages. Civil partners must have a registered or proven cohabitation relationship
• Children: Eligible children include the sponsor’s biological or adopted children and those of the spouse or partner, generally under 18 years old. Proof of legal representation is necessary for minors, and you will need to include proof of relationship, such as birth certificates
• Dependent Parents: Parents over 65 years old may be eligible if they are dependent on the sponsor. Justification for their residence must be provided, including proof that they are financially supported by the sponsor and that the sponsor is able to continue supporting them once they arrive in Spain. Parents under 65 may be considered for reunification on humanitarian grounds in certain circumstances
• Dependent Children over 18: Children over 18 who are dependent on the sponsor due to a disability or other need that shows they cannot support themselves independently may qualify for this visa. Children above 18 with no dependency needs will not qualify

Unsure whether your personal family situation meets the criteria above? Chat to one of our advisors to understand your rights to reunification with your family members in Spain. Call us today on +2342013306361, or get in touch online.

Who Does Not Qualify for Family Reunification Visa?

Several categories of individuals are ineligible for the Spain Family Reunification Visa:

• EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens’ Families: Family members of EU, EEA, or Swiss citizens cannot apply, as they follow a separate reunification process
• Multiple Partners: The visa does not allow reunification with more than one spouse or partner
• Extended Family Members: The visa is limited to the nuclear family, which includes only the spouse/partner, children, and dependent parents. Extended family members like siblings, cousins, or grandparents are generally not eligible
• Initial Authorisation Requirement: Family members cannot apply for the visa until the sponsor has secured the Initial Family Reunification Permit from the relevant authorities in Spain
• Document Legalisation: All foreign documents proving family relationships must be legalised or apostilled and accompanied by an official translation into Spanish, adding time and costs to the application process

What Does Family Reunification Visa Allow You to Do in Spain?

The Spain Family Reunion Visa allows non-EU family members to legally enter, reside, and work in Spain alongside their sponsors. Once approved, family members can access public services, including healthcare and education, and have the right to work, with spouses and children over 16 not needing a separate work permit. They must apply for a Foreigner Identity Card (TIE) within one month of arrival.

The initial visa is valid for 90 days, and the duration of the residence permit is linked to the sponsor’s status. Temporary permits are granted for the same duration as the sponsor’s permit, while permanent residents can obtain indefinite residence after five years.

Several restrictions apply, such as the need to enter Spain within 90 days and adhere to tax obligations, making them liable for Spanish taxes if they earn income. Dependent parents may face employment restrictions compared to other family members.

The visa facilitates integration into Spanish life by allowing family members to reside with their sponsors, work, access education, and utilise public services, ultimately providing a pathway to long-term residence and stability in Spain.

Spain Family Reunion Visa Requirements

First, it is essential to determine if both the sponsor and the family member(s) can apply for the visa requirements.

The sponsor must:

• Be a non-EU citizen
• Have legally resided in Spain for at least one year
• Hold a valid residence permit
• Demonstrate financial self-sufficiency, and:
• Provide adequate accommodation for the sponsored family members

The family member(s) must also not be an EU/EEA citizen, and must fit the eligibility criteria of close family outlined above, generally including a spouse/civil partner, minor children under 18, adult children with disabilities, or dependent parents over 65 in the sponsor’s care.

The process involves two phases:

Visa Application Phase: After authorisation, the family member must apply at a Spanish consulate, providing the initial permit and all required documentation.

Authorisation Phase: The sponsor submits all relevant documents, proof of residence, financial resources, accommodation, and relationship proof to the Provincial Aliens Affairs Office.

Documents Required for Family Reunification Visa

The Spain Family Reunification Visa process requires submitting comprehensive documentation to verify the sponsor’s legal status, financial capability, and housing suitability for the incoming family member(s). Once this phase, also known as the ‘authorisation phase’, is complete, then the sponsored family member will need to apply via a Spanish consulate and submit the appropriate documents.

Documents Required for the Sponsor

Sponsor’s Legal Status and Identity

• Copy of the residence permit (Foreigner Identification Card/TIE), which must still hold validity and not be near its expiration
• Copy of the sponsor’s passport
• Proof of residence permit validity (at least one year, with potential renewal)
• Completed EX–02 application form

Financial Self-Sufficiency

• Proof of income (e.g., recent bank statements, pay slips, or tax declarations)
• Income must meet or exceed 150% of the IPREM, plus an additional 50% for each family member being reunited

Adequate Accommodation

• Proof of adequate accommodation
• Housing report issued by local authorities
• Proof of address (e.g., rental contract or property deed)

Health Insurance

• Proof of health insurance
• If no access to public healthcare, private health insurance must provide full coverage in Spain, valid from arrival, with no co-payments or exclusions

Documents Related to the Family Member

• Copies of the family member’s passport
• Civil status documents (e.g. marriage certificate or birth certificate)
• Proof that the sponsor does not live in Spain with another spouse (if reuniting with a spouse)

Additional Documents for Dependent Parents

• Confirmation of long-term resident status of the sponsor
• Proof of financial dependency (e.g. evidence of funds transferred or expenses covered, representing at least 51% of the parent’s country’s per capita GDP)
• Parent’s financial information, including annual income and properties owned
• Information on other direct family members residing in the parent’s country

How to Apply for Spain Family Reunification Visa from Nigeria?

The application process for the Spain Family Reunification Visa is a multi-step procedure that begins with the sponsor, a non-EU resident in Spain, obtaining authorisation before the family member submits their visa application at the Spanish Consulate in their country of residence.

You can also apply with us – we can take care of the entire application process for you, so you can focus on the most important aspects of reunifying with your loved ones. To speak to an immigration lawyer today, call us on +2342013306361, or you can get in touch online.

Applicants must go through the following steps to apply for the Spain Family Reunification Visa:

Sponsor

• The sponsor must apply for an Initial Family Reunification Permit at the Provincial Aliens Affairs Office (Oficina de Extranjería) by submitting the required documents outlined above
• The immigration office has up to 3 months to respond to the authorisation request, and if approved, the sponsor is notified, with the consulate in Nigeria or other non-EU country of residence informed as well

Dependent Family Member

If the authorisation is granted, the family member must then follow these steps:

• Apply for the residence visa at the Consulate General of Spain in Lagos within 2 months of receiving the approval notification
• This phase requires scheduling an appointment and submitting the mandatory documents outlined above, including the Initial Family Reunification Permit
• The processing time for the visa is generally 2 months, but this may extend if further documentation is needed
• If approved, the visa must be collected within 1 month and is valid for 90 days, during which the family member must enter Spain

Post-Arrival in Spain

Upon arrival in Spain, the family member must apply for their Foreigner Identification Card (TIE) within one month at the local Foreign Nationals’ Office or Police Station, completing the residency process.

Application Cost for Family Reunification Visa Spain

The cost associated with the Spain Family Reunification Visa includes a mandatory government visa fee and supplementary service charges, which vary by nationality and location.

Government Visa Fee

• Standard Fee: Approximately 80 euros for most applicants
• Nigerian Applicants: The fee for the General Scheme is N139,700, subject to exchange rate changes

Service Charges

An additional N30,100 NGN applies when submitting through a visa application centre (like BLS International).

Additional Costs

Applicants should also budget for documentation preparation, official translations, medical certificates, private health insurance (if needed), and the residence card (TIE) fee of 16 to 20 euros upon arrival in Spain. Of course, the travel and set up costs for your arrival in Spain must also be planned carefully to ensure you do not have financial challenges once you move to Spain.

Processing Time for Spain Family Reunification Visa from Nigeria

The processing time for the General Scheme for Non-EU residents Spain Family Reunification Visa is divided into two main phases: the authorisation phase in Spain and the visa application phase at the Consulate in Nigeria, often totalling 3 to 6 months.

Phase 1: Authorisation in Spain (Sponsor’s Responsibility)

• Response Period: After the sponsor submits the application for reunification authorisation, the Spanish immigration office has up to 3 months to respond
• Administrative Silence: If no decision is issued within this period, the application is automatically considered denied

Phase 2: Visa Application in Nigeria (Family Member’s Responsibility)

• Application Deadline: The family member must submit the visa application within 2 months following the notification of authorisation approval
• Decision Period: The Consulate has a legal period of 2 months to decide on the visa application, with a minimum processing time of 20 calendar days
• Potential Delays: This period may be extended if an interview or additional documents are requested. Applicants are advised to submit their applications at least 20 days before their intended travel date to manage any unforeseen delays

Phase 3: Post-Approval Steps

• Visa Collection: If approved, the visa must be collected in person within 1 month of notification
• Validity: The visa is typically valid for 90 days, during which the family member must enter Spain
• TIE Application: After arrival, the family member must apply for their Foreigner Identification Card (TIE) within one month

Validity Period and Renewal of Family Reunification Visa Spain

The validity period of the Spain Family Reunification Visa and the associated residence permit are closely linked to the residency status of the sponsor, i.e. the non-EU citizen residing legally in Spain.

• Initial Visa Validity (Entry to Spain): The visa affixed to the family member’s passport is valid for 90 days, during which they must enter Spain
• Residence Permit Validity (TIE): Once in Spain, the residence permit duration aligns with the sponsor’s status:
  • Temporary Sponsor: The family member’s permit cannot exceed the duration of the sponsor’s temporary residence permit
  • Permanent Sponsor: The initial residence title for the family member expires on the same date as the sponsor’s Foreigner Identification Card, with subsequent permits potentially being permanent

After arrival, the family member must apply for their Foreigner Identification Card within one month.

Renewal and Extension of Status

The residence obtained through family reunification can be renewed and may allow for a transition to more autonomous status:

• Renewal: The residence card is typically valid for 1 year, renewable as long as the sponsor maintains legal residence in Spain. Renewal is generally achieved by renewing the sponsor’s permit and fulfilling necessary conditions
• Autonomous Status: Family members can transition to an autonomous permit if they meet criteria such as:
  • Spouses and Dependent Relatives: Must demonstrate financial means or work contracts
  • Spouses: Eligible for an autonomous residence permit after five years
  • Children: Can obtain an autonomous permit upon reaching legal age and fulfilling conditions after five years in Spain
• Long-Term Residence: Long-term residence status is typically granted after five years of continuous and legal residence, allowing indefinite residency and work in Spain

If you are seeking permanent residence in Spain but are unsure if you or your family members are eligible, speak to one of our immigration advisors today by getting in touch online or calling us on +2342013306361.

Residency in Spain

Spain’s immigration framework offers various pathways for non-EU nationals to obtain legal residency, encompassing categories related to employment, education, business, and family reunification. Legal residency allows non-EU nationals to fully access public services like healthcare and education while integrating into Spanish society. There are two types of residency: temporary residency and permanent residency.

Temporary Residency

Temporary residency is the initial status for many non-EU nationals residing in Spain. Usually, the temporary residency is granted in accordance with the visa length, which typically is valid for 1 year initially, with the possibility to renew or extend so long as the criteria for doing so continue to be met, according to the type of visa the holder has.

For family reunification purposes, if the sponsor holds a temporary residence permit, the residence permit granted to the family member is aligned with the sponsor’s duration and cannot exceed the duration of the sponsor’s permit.

Permanent Residency

Permanent residency is defined by achieving long-term residence status in Spain. This status is generally granted to individuals after they have completed five years of continuous and legal residence on a valid visa.

Long-term residence status is valuable because it enables the holder to indefinitely reside and work in Spain without visa restrictions.

For family reunification purposes, if the resident sponsor is already classified as a permanent resident, the first residence title granted to the reunited family member will expire alongside the sponsor’s Foreigner’s Identification Card, but the next residence permit granted shall then be permanent.

Pathways to Legal Residency in Spain

The following categories enable Nigerians and other non-EU citizens to reside legally in Spain:

• Employed Worker: Residency based on holding an employment contract in Spain
• Self-employed Worker: Residency for individuals managing their own business or working independently
• Highly-qualified Worker: Aimed at attracting individuals with specialized skills to contribute to the Spanish economy
• Intra-corporate Transferee (ICT): For employees transferred within the same company group to Spain
• International Service Provider: Residency for individuals providing international services in Spain
• Seasonal Worker: For those engaged in temporary or seasonal employment
• Researcher: Granted to individuals conducting research activities in Spain
• Student/Trainee: For those pursuing education or professional training
• Volunteer: For individuals participating in volunteer programmes
• Family Member: Residency obtained by joining a legal resident in Spain, including through the Family Reunification Visa

These categories are part of the broader EU immigration policies managed by the Directorate-General for Migration and Home Affairs (DG HOME), which aims to develop a common EU policy on legal migration and integration.

General Obligations of Residents

Residents of Spain will in most cases be subject to paying local taxes and other fees associated with living in Spain.

• Tax Residency: Individuals residing in Spain for more than 183 days per year are considered tax residents
• Tax Liability: Tax residents must declare their worldwide income to the Spanish Tax Agency (Agencia Tributaria) and may be liable for income tax (IRPF)
• Other Taxes: Residents may also be responsible for additional taxes, such as property tax or VAT

Best Places to live in Spain for Families

Spain is known for its welcoming environment and strong emphasis on family life and community. The legal residency status provided by the Family Reunion Visa enables family members to settle legally, access healthcare, enroll in schools, and integrate into Spanish society. Below are some of the best cities to consider when planning a move to Spain as a family.

Barcelona

Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia, is a vibrant Mediterranean port city known for its stunning architecture, rich culture, and lively atmosphere. Famous for its art and beautiful beaches, the city seamlessly blends historic charm with modernity, making it a popular destination for families looking to live in a vibrant city and a cultural hub.

• Community and Infrastructure: The city boasts a strong international community, excellent healthcare, and a thriving tech and creative sector
• Cost of Living: Costs in Barcelona are comparable to Madrid, particularly for rent

Madrid

Madrid is a fantastic city for families, providing a blend of cultural attractions, large and spacious outdoor areas, and entertainment options that cater to all ages.

• Economy and Culture: As Spain’s bustling capital, Madrid combines vibrant city life with rich history and culture, offering excellent job opportunities, world-class museums, and diverse dining options
• Family Suitability: The city features an extensive public transportation system and numerous parks
• Cost of Living: Madrid has the highest cost of living among the three cities

Valencia

Valencia is a fantastic family-friendly city that combines beautiful beaches, futuristic architecture, and rich history, offering a variety of activities for families of all ages. Known for its child-focused activities, Valencia provides a welcoming atmosphere with a mix of modern and historic attractions that appeal to visitors of all ages.

• Atmosphere and Lifestyle: Valencia offers a pleasant climate, affordable cost of living, and a family-friendly atmosphere
• Features: The city is renowned for its beautiful beaches, charming historic centre, modern infrastructure, vibrant festivals, delicious cuisine, and ample green spaces
• Cost of Living Advantage: Valencia generally has the lowest cost of living among the three cities

Cost of Living and Taxes in Spain

When planning residency in Spain, the cost of living and tax obligations are crucial considerations before deciding to move to the country or a particular region in the country.

Cost of Living in Major Spanish Cities

• The average net monthly salary in Spain is about €1,785
• Madrid and Barcelona have higher living costs, especially for rent, while Valencia is the most affordable option:
  • Madrid: Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is €1,324.62, with three-bedroom rent outside the city center at €2,318.42
  • Barcelona: One-bedroom rent is €1,349.62, and three-bedroom rent is €2,371.03
  • Valencia: One-bedroom rent is €1,037.10, and three-bedroom rent is €1,721.33. Basic utilities are generally lower in Valencia, averaging €123.77 per month

Taxes for Spanish Residents

• Legal residents, including those on a Family Reunion Visa, must adhere to Spanish tax laws
• Tax Residency Status: Individuals spending over 183 days in Spain are considered tax residents and must declare their worldwide income to the Spanish Tax Agency (Agencia Tributaria)
• Tax Liabilities: Residents may be liable for income tax (IRPF) and other taxes, such as property tax and VAT on purchases
• Spain has tax treaties with many countries to prevent double taxation, making it advisable for new residents to consult a tax advisor or the Agencia Tributaria website to understand their obligations and any exemptions

How Can IAS Help?

Relocating to Spain for family reunification offers a wonderful opportunity for many Nigerians eager to start a new chapter in a beautiful European country. The Family Reunification Visa enables family members to join their loved ones already living in Spain, fostering a fresh beginning together.

However, securing this visa can be a complicated process, involving various steps, financial considerations, and navigating immigration and bureaucratic challenges. This task can feel especially overwhelming if you’re unfamiliar with Spain, its language, and cultural practices. Moving an entire family only adds to the complexity and time required to complete the process.

That’s where IAS comes in. Our skilled immigration lawyers are well-versed in Spanish law and are here to assist you every step of the way through the Family Reunification Visa application, ensuring your transition is as smooth as possible. To connect with one of our advisors today, reach out to us online or call us at +2342013306361. We’re dedicated to helping you bring your family together in Spain.