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Temporary residence for family members of Spanish nationals

For direct family members, partners and dependants or carers of Spanish citizens.

Temporary residence for family members of Spanish nationals

For foreign nationals with a direct relationship with a Spanish citizen: through a family tie, cohabitation or dependence. It covers various cases (partners, spouses, children, parents, ascendants or people who provide support or care for reasons of health or dependence); what matters is proving a genuine relationship and, where applicable, cohabitation or financial dependence. Depending on the case, the application can be made from Spain or from abroad.

Rights

It allows you to reside in Spain for a long period, generally up to five years, and to work from the outset as an employee or self-employed with no further restrictions. It brings legal stability and the possibility of renewing or moving on to long-term residence.

Requirements

  1. Proof of a family tie, stable cohabitation or dependence on the Spanish citizen.
  2. Not posing a risk to public order, security or public health.
  3. In certain cases, no current criminal record.

Tie or cohabitation

A genuine, stable relationship with the Spanish person, proven by living at the same address, children in common, shared official documentation or evidence of financial support in cases of dependence. For unregistered couples it is particularly important to provide sufficient evidence of the stability of the relationship.

Who can apply

  • Partners or spouses of Spanish citizens.
  • Children, parents or ascendants.
  • Grandchildren, grandparents or other family members in certain cases.
  • People who provide care or support to Spanish citizens in a situation of dependence.

Frequently asked questions

  1. Yes, in some cases the procedure can be started from the country of origin; it depends on the type of tie and your personal situation.

  2. Yes. From the moment it is granted, it authorises you to work as an employee and self-employed with no further formalities.

  3. Generally up to five years, although it may vary depending on the case.

  4. Yes, provided the family reunification requirements are met.

  5. Depending on the case, it may be an obstacle or require a more detailed analysis of your personal and family situation.

Let’s discuss your case.

Tell us where you are and what you want to achieve. We will start by understanding which route makes sense for you.

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