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Family reunification in Spain: bring your family (2026)

Already a legal resident? Here's how to reunite with your spouse, children and dependent parents — who qualifies, and what you need to prove.

Last updated: August 2026 · Reading time ~6 min

Quick answer

As a legal non-EU resident (usually after 1 year and renewing your permit) you can reunite with your spouse/partner, children and, in cases, dependent parents 65+. You must prove adequate housing (informe de vivienda) and sufficient income (~150% IPREM for the unit + ~50% per extra member). You apply in Spain; your family then applies for the visa abroad.

Who qualifies & what you need

  • Eligible family: Spouse/registered partner, children under 18 or dependent, dependent parents 65+ (defined cases).
  • Prior residence: Generally 1 year of legal residence + a renewed/renewing permit.
  • Housing: A housing report (informe de vivienda / adecuación de vivienda) from the town hall or police.
  • Income: ≈ 150% IPREM for the unit incl. first member, + ≈ 50% IPREM per additional member.

How it works

  1. 1You apply in SpainThe sponsor applies for the reunification authorisation.
  2. 2Family applies for the visaOnce approved, they apply at the Spanish consulate in their country.
  3. 3They travel & get their TIEThey enter Spain and apply for their TIE residence card.

Frequently asked questions

Who can I bring to Spain through family reunification?

As a legal non-EU resident you can generally reunite with your spouse or registered partner, your children (and your partner's children) under 18 or dependent, and dependent parents aged 65+ (in defined circumstances). Family members of EU citizens use a different route — the 'tarjeta de familiar de ciudadano de la Unión'.

What are the requirements to reunite my family?

You typically need to have legally resided in Spain for at least one year and have renewed (or be renewing) your permit, plus adequate housing (proven by a housing report, 'informe de vivienda') and sufficient income to support the family.

How much income do I need for family reunification?

Income is measured against the IPREM. As a guide, you need around 150% of the IPREM for the family unit including the first member, plus roughly 50% of the IPREM for each additional family member. A lawyer will calculate your exact figure.

How does the process work?

You (the sponsor) apply in Spain for the reunification authorisation. Once approved, your family member applies for the visa at the Spanish consulate in their country, travels to Spain, and applies for their TIE card.

Can my reunited family work in Spain?

A reunited spouse/partner can generally work. Reunited children can work once they reach working age. Exact conditions depend on the permit, so confirm with a lawyer.

How long does family reunification take?

It varies by region and case, but plan for several months across the authorisation, the consular visa and the TIE. Complete, well-prepared paperwork (housing report, income proof, apostilled certificates) speeds things up.

General information, not legal advice. Requirements vary by case and region and change over time — confirm with a licensed immigration lawyer before applying.