How to Come to Spain with Your Family

spain family visit visa requirements

Family Visas for Spain

There are a few different visa types that allow you to come to Spain with your family.

These visas include:

  • Family reunification visas
  • Student visas
  • Spouse visas

Requirements for each will vary depending on which family member or members will be accompanying you.

However, the main documentation needed will remain similar to most other visa types, with just a few discrepancies.

To begin, let’s go over what you need for the family reunification visa ( reagrupación familiar ).

1. Family Reunification Visa in Spain

Any relative hoping to visit their non-European Union family member living in Spain will need a family reunification visa .

Relatives eligible to apply for this type of visa include:

  • Civil partnerships
  • Dependent children
  • Parents over the age of 65

This visa type remains valid for a specific length of time, which depends on the family member already located in Spain.

Timelines and Documentation

For example, perhaps you’re staying with a family member who holds a temporary residence permit.

If that residence permit is good for one year, your family reunification visa remains good for that year.

Alternately, maybe you’re staying with a family member who has a long-term residence permit.

If so, your visa will expire the date your family member’s TIE card expires.

The family member who currently has Spanish residency must initiate the visa application process.

You will need to complete this step at the local Spanish embassy or consulate.

If this is you, you will need to present the following documents to your local Foreigner’s Office in Spain:

  • Copy of passport and your family member’s passport
  • Copy of your TIE
  • Proof of relationship
  • Evidence that you can financially support your family
  • Adequate health insurance
  • Evidence of living situation such as a rental contract

After approval, your family member then has a 60-day window in which to apply for a visa in their home country.

Here it may be required to conduct an interview in which they will present the following:

  • Current passport
  • Proof of relationship (birth certificate or marriage certificate)
  • Clean criminal record
  • Medical certificate

Upon approval of the family reunification visa , the family member has 90 days from date of approval to join their relative in Spain.

Additional Eligibility

This visa type also allows children ages 18 to 21 to relocate to Spain under a family reunification visa.

However, children of this age must provide proof that they are dependent on family.

In addition, children of this age must also prove they have enrolled in a course of academic study such as a course for a university degree.

2. Spain’s Student Visa

Current student visa holders can also have their family join them during their time in Spain.

Certain requirements must be met if a family member wishes to join the student visa holder in Spain.

Conditions include:

  • Proof of sufficient financial resources
  • Evidence must be provided of relationship
  • You can reside in Spain legally for at least 180 days

Those who wish to obtain a student visa must ensure their studies are conducted at a 20-hour per week minimum.

For those student visa holders hoping to come to Spain with family, immediate family members only are allowed to be brought to Spain.

Studies in Spain

For students with courses that might run over a 6-month period, student visas will need to be obtained.

These courses include everything from kindergarten classes up through bachelor’s and master’s university degree programs .

Those attending language schools such as La Aventura Española or Academia Contacto would also need to obtain a student visa as courses run anywhere from 3 months to 12 months.

In addition, student visas also apply to those who will need to complete their studies at the primary and secondary grade levels.

College preparatory courses like those at Costa de Valencia and Academia Guiu also provide intensive course pathways that require students to obtain a student visa.

Keep in mind that if your courses for any of these run for over a 6-month period, both you and your accompanying family members will need to apply for a TIE.

This process must be completed within the first 30 days of your arrival in Spain.

If you find that your studies might last longer than a 1-year time period, you and your family member(s) want to start the process for an extension of your visas.

To ensure your family member has the best chance at a visa approval, appropriate documentation must be submitted.

Documents include:

  • Visa application form
  • Copy of passport
  • Passport photos
  • Confirmation of health coverage
  • Criminal record check

Visa application documents go through the closest appropriate Consular Office in the resident’s city.

Our immigration lawyer can help you apply for a student visa on your behalf!

3. Spain’s Spouse Visa

Sometimes referred to as the unmarried partner visa , this is another visa type that allows you to come to Spain with your family.

Documentation for this visa type is similar to a standard visa, but copies of marriage certificates will need to be included in your application.

  • Application
  • Passport copy
  • Proof of residence
  • Valid residence card
  • Proof of income
  • Clear criminal record certificate

You must submit the application for this type of visa in person at your local consular office.

The person who holds the Spanish residence permit will be the one to submit said application.

How to Apply for Your Spain Family Visa

From the family reunification visa for Spain to spouse visas, there are a number of ways you can come to Spain with your family.

Because there are some discrepancies between the visa types, it’s a good idea to confirm details and necessary documentation with your local consular office before applying.

Have as much of your documentation ready to go to make sure you submit everything for a smooth approval process.

Required documents will generally include the following:

  • Visa application
  • Copy of current passport
  • Current passport photos
  • Copy of resident’s current residence card (TIE)
  • Proof of familial relationship
  • Check of criminal records
  • Accreditation of medical health
  • Proof of residence in home country
  • Payment for visa application

Always remember that any foreign documentation submitted with your application needs to be legalized or apostilled before submission.

You should generally receive word on your visa on whether or not its been accepted or denied within a 2-month window.

If an interview or additional documentation is needed after submission, you will be notified by the Consular Office to which you submitted your application.

The family reunification visa remains valid for a 90-day window.

Upon your, or your family member’s, arrival in Spain, be sure to also apply for the Foreigner Identification Card within the first 30 days.

Ready to Come to Spain with Your Family?

As outlined above, there are various visa types that make it possible to come to Spain with your family.

Thanks to these various visa types, you and your family can enjoy all that Spain has to offer together.

You’ll want to apply to which visa best fits your specific situation.

As always, here at Go! Go! España , we’re here to make this process as seamless as possible for you.

If you have questions which visa is right for you, please contact our team today.

We partner with a Spanish immigration lawyer that can help you complete your visa application without hassle.

We also offer a variety of additional benefits like support with university applications, accommodation assistance , and more.

With our help, we want to make it easy to come to Spain with your family, and enjoy all that this beautiful country has to offer.

Don’t hesitate to let us know if you’d like to start your visa application – we look forward to helping you and your family reunite in Spain!

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Family Reunification Visa in Spain

family reunification visa in Spain

Today we will talk about one of the Spanish immigration procedures that, for sure, you will be interested in. Why? Well, would you like to bring your family to Spain so that they can legally reside with you? If so, the procedure to achieve this is family reunification .

If you meet the conditions, this would be a simple process for you.

In this article we will explain  everything you need to know to regroup your relatives step-by-step .

What is the family reunification visa?

The family reunification visa is the immigration procedure through which a non-European citizen with a residence permit in Spain can bring their relatives to the country ; granting them a residence and work permit.

It is important to keep in mind that only those foreigners in Spain who have renewed their initial residence authorization are eligible to begin this process. 

That is, if you have been legally in Spain for less than a year, you still cannot regroup your family members. You must have a renewed residence permit.

In addition, and as a general rule, you need to demonstrate that the relative you want to bring to Spain depends economically on you.  Later on this article, we will see how this is done exactly.

How to bring your family to Spain

Let us answer one of the most frequently asked questions by foreigners:   Can I bring my whole family to the country?  The answer is simple: no.

reagrupación familiar en España

You can only regroup your parents or parents-in-law (ascendants), bring your children or the children of your partner (descendants) , and your spouse or common-law partner .

But how to do it?

The general procedure to regroup relatives is always the same .

The only difference lies in the specific requirements or documents that are requested according to the family member we wish to regroup.

So let’s explore all the different possible cases, one by one.

Here you can find a complete guide with the 5 ways to bring your parents to Spain .

How to regroup your children

It is very important to keep in mind that  we can only regroup children under 18 .

If you are a Spanish or EU citizen, you can regroup children who are up to 21 years old. This is because the process is the family member of an EU citizen visa, which falls under the Community regime.

For the family reunification visa, the only time it will be possible to regroup children over 18 years old, if the child is disabled, and needs his or her parents to be in charge of him or her.

To regroup your children, it will be essential to  demonstrate that   they are economically dependent on you  (father or mother). It would not be possible to bring them if they have a job contract.

To prove economic dependence, you can  show how money transfers have been realized  during the past years. You can also show how you pay for their expenses; for example, education.

Furthermore, you must prove that your child is truly your child . The necessary document here is the birth certificate .

Take note that it is  not possible to regroup grandchildren .

Here you can access a complete guide on how to move to Spain with your kids, including 5 tips that will help you out .

Do you have any questions? Get personalized advice from one of our immigration lawyers:  

How to regroup your husband or wife

Article 53.b. of the Immigration Law allows you to regroup both your spouse (husband or wife) and any person with whom you have a similar relationship bond . That is, it is also possible to regroup your civil partner ( pareja de hecho) .

Same sex partnerships or marriages are also accepted for reunification.

The most important thing to keep in mind to bring your partner or spouse is to  present the marriage certificate or civil partnership registration . This is the document that validates the affective bond.

Additionally, it will also help to present a registrataion certificate ( empadronamiento ) or rental agreement that shows both parties are living together.

Make sure that neither individual is already registered as married or in a civil union with another person. Additionally, if one of you was married before, you will need a judicial resolution explaining the situation and nullification of the previous union.

Authorities simply want to make sure that the current partnership or marriage is not fake or born out of convenience . 

How to regroup your father or mother

Regrouping parents or in-laws can become one of the most complex procedures. That is because the requirements are quite strict.

The ascendants to be regrouped (parents or in-laws),  must be over 65 years of age. You as the regrouper  must be in charge of them , and there must be  sufficient reason to regroup them  (for example, they need intensive care due to their old age).

Again, to demonstrate economic dependence, it will be necessary to demonstrate that during the past months the regrouper has transferred money to the regrouped or has been in charge of his or her significant expenses .

However, you, as the regrouper must also meet certain requirements to be able to regroup your parents.

In this particular case, you must have a long-term residency or long-term EU card. This means, you must have resided in Spain for a minimum of 5 years to be able to regroup your parents.

Then, what is the necessary document? At the time of the application, you must  provide your birth certificate to prove that they are indeed your parents .

Or, alternatively, if the in-laws are the ones being regrouped, the marriage certificate with your spouse and their birth certificate.

How to regroup your brother or sister

It is not possible to bring your brother or sister to Spain . Or at least not through the family reunification process.

In order to bring your brother or sister to the Spanish territory, you must complete the process of family reunification under the Community Regime by extended family .

This procedure allows you to regroup family members other than those we have already seen (first-degree ascendants and descendants and direct, spouse or common-law partner): nephews, grandchildren, grandparents, and siblings .

Family Reunification Under the European Regime

As we have mentioned, the family reunification visa is a procedure initiated by a non-European citizen to bring another non-European citizen to Spain.

But what happens if the expat in Spain is European?  In that case, the so-called European/Community family reunification will be carried out.

But we must be careful here.

Why? Because, to be accurate, there is no such thing as community regrouping. The correct term for this is the  residence permit as a family member of an EU citizen .  Thus, the applicable law is not the General Foreigners Law, but the Community Regime.

The visa as a family member of an EU citizen has certain differences from the family reunification visa, so we recommend that you discover them in this other article .

Documents and Requirements

Let’s now discover  what the general documents and requirements are for your application.  Remember that this following list goes hand-in-hand with the specific documents that are required of each relative (which we have already mentioned above).

spain family visit visa requirements

For this, we recommend you visit our post wherein we detail the main requirements for family reunification . But here we will give you a general overview:

  • Criminal records certificate in case the relative you bring to the country is over 18 years old
  • Passport and residence card of the person who regroups; and the regrouped passport
  • Adequate housing report , demonstrating that your house is suitable and meets the minimum conditions so that your relative can live in a dignified way
  • Demonstrate the possession of sufficient financial means to be economically in charge of your family member when she comes to Spain
  • Private medical insurance or proof of subscription to the Spanish social security system. You can access a complete guide with all the relevant info about medical insurance contracts here

Bear in mind that it is not necessary to provide the original documents initially . Those will be only requested at the time of obtaining the visa (at the consulate in the country of origin of the regrouped). In spain, a copy will be enough.

Demonstrate the possession of sufficient economic means

The economic means are one of the most important requirements for a successful application when bringing your family to Spain. 

Thus, we wanted to dedicate a specific section to provide all the relevant information.

To demonstrate the economic means you must demonstrate, basically, an amount equivalent to or greater than 150% of the IPREM when regrouping one relative .

That would be the case of bringing a single relative, for example, your husband or wife.

But, in case you want to bring more than one, you must add 50% to that amount for each relative.

In addition, you will also have to provide a work contract (minimum for one year, and better if it is undefined) and the last 6 payrolls.

If you are self-employed (that is, you are an autónomo ), you must provide the latest income tax statement .

How long does this procedure take?

The procedure to get the family reunification visa generally takes about 6 months from beginning to end. However, the total time will depend on many factors such as how long does it takes for the immigration office to give you an appointment or how long it takes for the consulate to respond to the visa application.

Thus, it will be very useful for us to understand the procedure step-by-step so you can define exactly how long it will take for you.

The first thing you should do (as the relative who is already in Spain) is to get an appointment at the immigration office and start the legal application. To do this you must fill out and submit the EX-02 model with all the other documentation that we have mentioned in this article.

The immigration office will have 3 months to give you an answer, considering the request denied in case of administrative silence after that time . More on administrative silence ( silencio administrativo ) for your immigration application here .

Once you receive a positive response, the relative who is abroad but wants to come to Spain must apply for a visa at the Spanish consulate located in their country of origin.

After 2 months of waiting (maximum), the regrouped will receive the visa and must enter Spain within 3 months. Once in Spain she will have 1 month to apply for your residence card or TIE.

Remember that all foreign documents must be translated into Spanish and duly legalized or apostilled.

If you need one of our lawyers to answer all your questions or accompany you step by step throughout the process, do not hesitate to contact us:

Get in touch with our lawyers and let us guide you step by step:

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spain family visit visa requirements

13 Replies to “Family Reunification Visa in Spain”

Please help me I am interested in to come to Spain but I don’t know what to do I am here in Italy and I have Italy residence permit but I will like to come to Spain and get a job and start my life over there can you help me to come to Spain and get a job i really need job please thanks,

Hi me and my parter are from the u k we have a property in Spain we have both got our nie numbers but looking to get resedenvy permits is this something you can do for us to act on our behave regards mr sears

Hi Mr Sears,

Yes sure! Our team can help you with that. Just send us an email at [email protected] detailing which is your current situation, and one of our lawyers will start handling your case.

Yes, we can help you out. Just send us an email at [email protected] and one of our lawyers will guide you step by step.

Hi im a filipina and my husband is EU citizens from norway. And he want to bring me in spain for good together with my filipna daughter. What can i do.

If you would like to initiate the reunification procedure, send us an email at [email protected] and we will help you out 🙂

Good day sir.my name is Sunday from nigeria but am living in Spain,and i have parmanet residente and i wanted to bring my wife and my kids to spain.almost two months now my wife has surmited all the documents for family reunión visa at embassy but up till now will didnt hear Anything please i just want to know how long will take to give them visa.thanks

The immigration office has 3 months to issue their response. If you don’t get any news after that, the application has been denied.

Please sir. how can you help me if they denied my family reunión visa.thanks

Hi. I currently have work permit in Sweden that will be expired on August but I think it has been revoked due to I left my job because I am pregnant and came here in Spain to give birth (because the father of my baby is here). I thought I ws n maternity leave, didn’t know they’ll cancel my contract. Also, the father of my baby can’t help get me visa: lack of economic income, we are not married (not in a plan), we lived together but we are not registered in the same address. And, I gave birth here in Madrid. I badly need to be able to stay legally here for my baby to be registered and so I can work legally. Are there any possibility I can apply for a permit? Thank you.

Your baby will be registered at the Civil Registry as he will be Spanish so as his dad is. In case you cannot get a residence permit though your couple you will be able to do it once your baby is born. You can directly contact us [email protected] so one of our lawyers can explain you the different options you have.

My husband is a citizens in Spain, I want to go and meet him over there, what are the process?

In order to be able to assess what would be the best option for you, ideally we would like to have a consultation with you so that one of the lawyers can advise you on your case. You can send an email to [email protected] .

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Spain Family Visas

If you are a foreign citizen in Spain with a residence permit or Spanish citizenship, you have a right to family reunification. You can have your family live with you in Spain for a long term.

Visit our website for more information on Spain’s Family Reunification Visas, or call us on  +44 333 305 9375 for immediate help and assistance with your situation. We’re here to help you in person, via the phone , or online .

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Page contents, about spain family visas, conditions for family reunion visa, who is eligible for the family reunification visa, non-eu family reunification visa, visas for family members of the citizens of the union, validity duration of the family reunification visa in spain, what can i do as a dependent in spain, are there short-term family visas to spain, family reunion for dependents of asylum seekers or refugees in spain, how can ias help, frequently asked questions.

Spain Visas for family reunification or reunion enable foreign citizens to have their family members live with them in Spain. The family members are non-EU/EEA citizens who require visas to enter Spain.

You do not need a Family Reunification Visa if you are a citizen of one of the European Union’s member states, the European Economic Area, or a national of Switzerland. All you need is to meet specific requirements for entry and register as a foreigner upon arrival.

Depending on your situation and certain conditions, you may enjoy some benefits upon reunion with your family member. Spain permits rights to work to family members above 16 years. You can become an autonomous residence permit holder and acquire a long-term residence permit to live and work in Spain indefinitely.

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The family member you wish to join in Spain must have been legally residing in Spain continuously for a year with a resident permit. The residence permit must be valid for not less than a year and must have authorisation for renewal. They must have sufficient financial support to cover your living expenses in Spain.

You may be able to regroup with your family without waiting a year. In this case, your family member has lived in a country in the European Union (EU) before moving to Spain and holds a long-term residence permit from that country. Or they hold a:

  • Blue EU Card
  • Researcher Visa
  • Student Visa

spain family visit visa requirements

Eligible family members must be financially dependent on the Spain resident in the country of origin and Spain. Such dependency must be demonstrable through consistent money transfers that prove sponsorship of living expenses for at least a year.

Only family members with any of the following relationships can obtain the Family Reunification Visa:

  • Spouse or partner of the Spanish resident.
  • Children of the Spanish resident and spouse or partner. Children obtained from adoption are eligible. Also, minors (under 18) or children with disabilities that cannot fend for themselves.
  • Family members under 18 years or with disability and incapable of taking responsibility for their needs, requiring the Spanish resident to take on legal representative status.
  • First-degree ascendant (father or mother) of a family member with EU long-term residency, their spouse or partner.

Extended family members can become beneficiaries of the Family Reunification Visa through their family members who have obtained Spanish citizenship or citizenship from another EU state. Also, children between the ages of 18 and 21 can become beneficiaries of the Family Reunion Visa under the EU Community Regime.

Reunification of Extended Family Members

The Spanish immigration laws authorise the reunion of extended family members. Only foreign residents with Spanish or EU citizenship are eligible to bring extended family members to Spain. Aside from being a citizen of Spain, there must be proof of economic dependence of the eligible extended relative or partner on the sponsor in the country of origin. The ability to adequately handle the economic dependence in Spain must be demonstrable.

As a Spanish or EU citizen, you can bring relatives with the following relationship:

  • Children over 21
  • Unregistered partners
  • Relatives with a severe disability

Get in touch with our expert immigration lawyers to receive assistance on Spain Family Visas. Contact Us

Non-EU Family Reunification or Reunion Visa enables foreigners legally residing in Spain to bring their family to the country. The route for non-EU family members from third-world countries depends on the relationship with the family member in Spain. The following are the routes under the Non-EU Family Reunification Visa:

Non-EU Spouse Visa

The Spouse Visa is for persons with an emotional relationship with the sponsor in Spain. The relationship must be demonstrable through a marriage certificate. The purpose is to establish that the marriage is not based on a convenient relationship. The Spouse Visa is only valid for one spouse. If the present marriage is not your first, you will have to provide evidence of the dissolution of the previous marriage. Your spouse (main applicant) must also provide an affidavit that proves they are not residing with another partner in Spain.

Your sponsor (spouse or partner) must register the marriage certificate at the Civil Registry. You may need to have your certificate apostille by a relevant authority in the country it was registered or legalised by the Consular Office of Spain in the issuing country. For partners, the partner in Spain must provide a civil union registration certificate to the Civil Registry before applying for a visa.

In the case of a partnership, it must be equivalent to marriage. The partnership must have been registered, and the registration must remain valid. The registration must be in a public registry. In a situation when the partnership is unregistered, the legality of the partnership must be justifiable by law. It must have existed before the sponsor’s migration to Spain. You must have evidence of a continuous cohabitation relationship before they left for Spain.

Non-EU Minor Visa

The Spanish Family Reunification Visa covers minors who are considered children below the age of 18. Although it is a Minor Visa, the child will require a representative in the person of the parent or guardian who can be a legal resident in Spain or their spouse. A representative with a power of attorney can also apply for the child.

The representative or sponsor must provide a birth certificate issued by a Civil Registry. The birth certificate must declare the non-EU citizen and their spouse (as parents) legal parental authority over the children. It must carry their names. If you are a single parent bringing your child under your care, you must provide documents supporting your claim of custody. Or documents indicating the other parent’s consent that agrees to the child’s residence in Spain under your care.

If you want to bring your spouse’s or partner’s children to Spain, you must provide a birth certificate that carries your spouse’s or partner’s name as the legal parent. Also, you will need to prove your relationship to the legal parent (your spouse or partner) through a marriage certificate or civil partnership registration certificate.

Non-EU Ascendant Visa

Non-EU Ascendant Visa is for the parents of a foreign citizen in Spain who has the right to family reunification through long-term residency in Spain or the EU. The parent can be the father or mother of the applicant living in Spain. The visa applies to the sponsor’s parents and their spouse or partner. However, there are conditions attached to age and the purpose of migration to Spain. They must be older than 65 years.

The prerequisite for accessing a Non-EU Ascendant Visa to Spain must be on the condition of dependency. The child living in Spain must have been responsible for their parent’s living expenses for at least a year. When calculated per annum, the financial responsibility or funds transferred over a year must be equivalent to at least 51% of the gross domestic product per capita of the parent’s country of residence. If your parents are not up to 65 years of age, you may be able to have them join you for humanitarian reasons.

A birth certificate is also crucial to accessing the Ascendant Visa. It must carry the ascendant’s name as the sponsor’s legal parent living in Spain. It is also important to state the annual income and properties of the parent. If there are other family members in the country, you will need to provide details.

Humanitarian Reasons

The humanitarian reasons for justifying ascendants below 65 years include:

  • Your parent lived with you as a dependent in your country of origin before you moved to Spain.
  • Your parent has a disability and is subject to your care as a guardian.
  • Your parents are incapable of fending for their needs.

These humanitarian reasons are also applicable to the spouse’s or partner’s parents. In the case of bringing your parent and their spouse, but one of them is below 65 years, humanitarian reasons may justify their eligibility for a Non-EU Ascendant Visa.

spain family visit visa requirements

For assistance with Spain Family Visas, get in touch with us today. Contact Us

Visas for Family Members of the Citizens of the EU, EEA, and Swiss

In contrast with the Family Reunification Visa, Spain has a visa scheme specially designed for family members of foreigners from member countries of the Union. The Union constitutes the countries in the EU, EEA, and Switzerland. Citizens of the Union do not need to apply for a visa to enter Spain. The visa is free of charge and requires that you travel with or in the process of joining your family member who is a citizen of the EU, EAU, or Swiss.

Aside from joining your EU spouse in Spain, you can transit through the Schengen area without a Transit Visa. Suppose you need to stay in Spain beyond 90 days. In that case, you will need to apply for a residence card for family members of a Union citizen.

The free-of-charge visa is only open to family members of the EU/EEA/Swiss citizens who meet the following criteria:

  • Spouse or registered partner of the EU/EEA/Swiss citizen. Your marriage or partnership must not be legally annulled or dissolved. The partnership must be registered in an EU/EEA/Swiss country.
  • Children or direct descendants of the EU/EEA/Swiss citizen, spouse, or partner. The marriage or partnership registration of the ascendants (parents) has not been legally annulled or terminated. The children must be less than 21 years of age. Only dependent or disabled children can bypass the age restriction.
  • Dependent family members in the direct ascending line of the EU/EEA/Swiss citizen, spouse, or partners such as the parents or grandparents. For the spouse or partner, the marriage or partnership must be existing and intact to have their parents or grandparents in Spain.
  • Other relatives aside from the abovementioned relatives residing with an EU/EEA/Swiss citizen or their dependents in their country of origin.
  • Family members with severe health conditions or disability that requires them to be in the care of the EU/EEA/Swiss citizen living in Spain.
  • Unregistered partner of the EU/EEA/Swiss citizen. There must be evidence of a long period of cohabitation of not less than one year. In the case of having children in common, there will also be a need for evidence of stable cohabitation.

Residency Permit as a Family Member of an EU Citizen

As a family member of an EU/EEA citizen, you can also enter Spain without a visa. You must have a residency permit in an EU or EEA country. A residence card from an EU/EEA country and a valid passport will grant you free entry into Spain to join or travel with your EU/EEA/Swiss family member. If you have a stamp 4EuFam, you will not be required to provide a visa to enter Spain.

spain family visit visa requirements

The validity of the Family Reunification Visa depends on the validity duration of the residency permit of your family member living in Spain. For non-EU family members with temporary residency permits, your Family Reunification Visa will expire on the permit expiry date.

On the other hand, if your family member is a long-term residency holder or an EU long-term resident, your visa will expire when your Foreigner Identification Card (TIE) expires.

Spain Family Reunification Visa offers some benefits to Spouses, partners, and children, enabling some activities in the country. They include:

  • Working or becoming self-employed without a work permit. The Reunification Visa enables spouses or registered partners and children above 16 years to work without getting a work permit.
  • Studying in Spain. Spouses, registered partners, and children can enrol on a study program. Children under 16 years can access public and secondary education.
  • Accessing social benefits, including unemployment, public healthcare, retirement and pension benefits.

Other family members under the Family Reunification Visa status will need to first get authorisation to work or study before they can apply for employment or enrol on a study program in Spain.

If you have any questions about Spain Family Visas, our team is happy to assist. Contact Us

If you only wish to visit your Non-EU/EEA family member for a short period, you can do that through the Schengen Visa . The Schengen Visa is a short-term visa that allows non-EU/EEA citizens to visit family members in Spain for a short while.

You can stay with your family for up to 90 days in a 180-day period and must leave at the stipulated period. Unlike the Family Reunification Visa, you can not work, be self-employed, or enrol on a study program. Since a Schengen Visa permits entry into the countries in the Schengen, you can enter Spain with a Schengen Visa from another country in the Schengen area.

Getting a Schengen Visa will require you to fulfil specific requirements, such as providing evidence of sufficient financial support, travel insurance, and a trip itinerary.

The Asylum Act of Spain grants asylum seekers and refugees the right to have family members live with them in Spain. The Asylum Act provides two mediums to exercise such right – Extension and Family Reunification.

The right of extension includes their dependent family members under international protection status. Family reunification is an alternative that enables family members, such as the spouse or registered partner with different nationalities, to join an asylum seeker or refugee as a dependant.

The following are eligible to enter Spain under “extension”:

  • Dependent parents of the beneficiaries.
  • Minor descendants.
  • Spouse or partner with equivalent relationship to marriage or cohabitation.
  • Other adults who are legally responsible for the beneficiary, an unmarried minor, under the Spanish legislation.
  • Other dependent relatives of the beneficiary who resided together under stable cohabitation in the country of origin.

IAS can assist you in joining your family in Spain. We will provide you with the eligibility conditions and requirements to fulfil them according to your situation and needs. You can rely on our years of experience to gather all your application documents for prompt submission.

If you need in-depth knowledge of Spain’s immigration system and types of visas, our immigration lawyers are knowledgeable in Spanish immigration laws. We are a reliable source of support and immigration advice.

Visit our website or call us on  +44 333 305 9375 for immediate help and assistance with your situation. We’re here to help you in person, via the phone , or online .

Last modified on July 18th, 2023 at 8:49 am

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Related pages for your continued reading.

Immigrate to spain, spain business visa, spain short-term visas, spain study visas, spain residency, spain work visas, how do i get a family visa in spain.

You will need to have a spouse or partner and family members in Spain. The person must hold temporary residence (at least one year) or long-term residency in Spain or another EU state.

The sponsor must also meet certain requirements, such as legal housing and means of sufficient subsistence. If you meet the requirement to join them in Spain, you can apply in person at a local Spanish consulate near you.

How Long Does It Take To Apply for and Get a Family Reunification Visa to Spain?

The duration of the application depends on the time it takes to gather and prepare all the required documents for the application. Once you have your documents, you have to get an appointment to submit your application form and documentation to the Spanish consular.

The processing of your application for family reunification begins after the day of your submission. The standard processing period is two months. It may take longer than that if you have to submit missing documents or attend an interview for further review.

How Much Does the Family Union Visa Cost?

There is no fixed general fee for the Family Reunion Visa. Your fee will depend on your nationality. You can consult the Consular office in your local area for the fees.

Can My Sponsor and I Apply for Residence Permit Renewal?

Yes, you can jointly submit a renewal application 60 calendar days before your sponsor’s temporary residence permit expiry date.

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Spain - Family member

Are you a non-EU citizen living in Spain and would you like to bring your non-EU family members to live with you there? You can find information below on the conditions, procedures and rights your family members can enjoy during their stay.

If you hold a residence permit with a duration of at least one year, with the possibility to remain valid for another year, you are entitled to reunite with your family in Spain.

Your family members can include:

  • your spouse (not separated);
  • your and your spouse’s children, both biological and adopted;
  • your family members who are not objectively capable of caring for themselves due to their state of health, and you are their legal representative;
  • and if you are a long-term resident, you and your spouse’s ascendants in the first-degree, ascendants who are dependent on the applicant and older than 65 years, where there are reasons justifying residence in Spain. Exceptionally, ascendants younger than 65, if there are humanitarian reasons for it.

Where to apply

You must first apply for family reunification at the Provincial Aliens Affairs Office .

If your application is successful and you get a residence permit for the purpose of family reunification in Spain, your family members can apply for a residence visa at the Embassy or Consulate in your country of residence.

Documents required

You must prove the family relationship.

If you are reuniting with your spouse, you must prove that you do not live in Spain with another spouse.

You must provide:

  • a copy of their passport;
  • a copy of the residence title;
  • proof of employment or of sufficient financial resources;
  • proof of adequate accommodation; and
  • health insurance.

Duration of validity of permits

The duration of the residence permit granted to your family members is aligned with the duration of your permit:

  • if you hold a temporary residence permit, your family member is granted a permit for a duration that cannot exceed the duration of your permit;
  • if you are a permanent resident, the first resident title granted to your family member will expire on the same date as the expiry date of your Foreigner's Identification Card. The next residence permit granted shall then be permanent.

Decisions can be challenged by way of an administrative appeal. Do you disagree? You may appeal to the court.

Further information

More on bringing your family members to Spain (in Spanish)

Access to employment

Your family members can work in Spain provided they can prove that they have obtained a work permit.

Your spouse and children older than 16 years are allowed to work without applying for a work permit.

Autonomous status

Your spouse and dependent relatives are entitled to obtain an autonomous permit of residence provided they have financial means, one or more work contracts or they fulfil the general conditions to obtain it.

Your children are entitled to obtain an autonomous residence permit when they reach the legal age and they fulfil the general conditions to obtain it.

Your spouse may obtain an autonomous residence permit after five years of residence and children may obtain an autonomous residence permit when they reach adulthood and have spent at least five years in Spain.

Your spouse and children may obtain a work permit without having independent resident status if the proposed work contract is part-time or for the completion of services.

Long-term residence

Long-term residence is generally granted after five years of continuous and legal residence.

This status enables the holder to indefinitely reside and work in Spain.

More on long-term residence in Spain (in Spanish)

  • Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security and Migration / Secretary of State for Migrations
  • Ministry of Interior
  • Public Employment Service
  • Diplomatic missions abroad

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spain family visit visa requirements

General scheme for the family reunification visa

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​ V isa for family members of foreigners who already have legal resident status in Spain and who wish to exercise the right to family reunification. 

This type of visa is not issued to family members of citizens of the European Union or of the Member States of the European Economic Area or of Switzerland (see “Visas for family members of EU citizens").

Family members who can obtain a family reunification visa​​  

  • The spouse, not separated in fact or in law, or the person who maintains a partnership with the applicant that is analogous to a marital relationship (partner entered on a public register, provided that the registration has not been cancelled, or unregistered partner provided that proof can be provided of the continuity of a cohabitation relationship established before the applicant settled in Spain). Reunification cannot be offered to more than one spouse or partner. 
  • The children of the applicant, the children of the spouse or partner—including adopted children (provided that the adoption is valid in Spain)—and those represented legally by the applicant, provided that they are  under the age of 18 or that they have disabilities and are not objectively capable of providing for their own needs due to their health status.  
  • The applicant's parents (mother or father) and those of their spouse or partner, provided that they are in the care of the applicant, they are older than 65 and there are reasons substantiating the need to authorize their residence in Spain. On an exceptional basis, and for humanitarian reasons, the reunification of parents under the age of 65 may be permitted.

Required documents​​​  

2. Photograph. A recent, passport-size, colour photograph, taken against a light background, facing forward, without dark or reflective glasses, or any garments concealing the oval of the face. 

3. Valid, unexpired passport. Original and a photocopy of the page or pages of the passport that contain biometric data. The passport must have a minimum validity period of 4 months and contain two blank pages. Passports issued more than 10 years ago will not be accepted. 

​4. Initial family reunification permit. Original and a copy of the initial family reunification permit issued by the Delegation or Sub-delegation of the Government in Spain, at the applicant's request. 

5. Applicant's residence card . Certified photocopy of the applicant's Foreigner Identification Card, which must be unexpired. 

6. Documents proving family relationship with the applicant.  

Spouses: Marriage certificate issued by the competent civil registry. In the event of second or successive marriage, proof of divorce from the previous spouse. Original and photocopy.

Unmarried couples: Certificate of registration as an unmarried couple or, if the couple have not entered their relationship on a register, documents proving the couple's relationship dates back to before the applicant established their residence in Spain. Original and photocopy.

  • Children: Birth certificate issued by the competent civil registry. In the case of the children of just one of the spouses or members of the couple, proof must also be provided that they hold sole parental authority over the child or that they have been awarded custody and that the child is effectively in their care. Original and photocopy.  

Parents: Birth certificate of the applicant or of the spouse or partner issued by the competent civil registry and documents substantiating the reasons for which it was necessary to authorize their residence in Spain. Among other documents, proof must be provided that, over the past year, the applicant has transferred funds to or covered expenses incurred by the parent representing, at least, 51% of the per capita GDP of the parent's country of residence. Moreover, proof must be submitted of the annual income and properties owned by the parent and information on other direct family members who are resident in the country. Original and photocopy.

Foreign documents must be legalized or apostilled and, where applicable, must be submitted together with an official translation into Spanish.  

7. Criminal record check certificate. Applicants of legal age must submit both the original and a copy of the criminal record check certificate(s) issued by their country or countries of residence for the past 5 years. Foreign documents must be legalized or apostilled and, where applicable, must be submitted together with an official translation into Spanish.  

This certificate cannot be older than 6 months, unless the certificate itself specifies a longer expiration.

For UK Criminal Records submit ACRO Certificate.

These certificates must be legalised through the Spanish Representations in the issuing country or, in the case of signatory countries to the Hague Convention of October 5, 1961, hold the Hague Apostille, except official documents issued by a Member State of the European Union, which will not require to be legalised. ​

Sworn translation into Spanish is also required.

8. Medical certificate. Original and a copy of a medical certificate accrediting that the applicant does not suffer from any disease that could cause serious repercussions for public health pursuant to the 2005 International Health Regulations. Foreign documents must be legalized or apostilled and, where applicable, must be submitted together with an official translation into Spanish. 

This certificate must be issued by a registered medical practitioner no later than 3 months prior to the date of application, it must be formulated in the following terms or similarly:

•       If the medical certificate is issued in the United Kingdom: “This health certificate states that Mr./Mrs. (…) does not suffer from any of the diseases that may have serious public health repercussions in accordance with what is stipulated by the International Health Regulations of 2005”

Certificates issued in a language different from Spanish must be accompanied by a sworn translation into Spanish.

•       If the medical certificate is issued in Spain: “Este certificado médico acredita que el Sr./Sra. (…) no padece ninguna de las enfermedades que pueden tener repercusiones para la salud pública graves, de conformidad con lo dispuesto en el reglamento sanitario internacional de 2005”

This Consulate does not provide information about medical centres that issue this certificate. The applicant may contact any public or private medical centre duly accredited in the territory of the United Kingdom or Spain. Medical certificates issued in countries other than the United Kingdom or Spain will not be accepted.

These certificates must hold the Hague Apostille (except documents issued by Spain, which will not require to be legalised).

9. Proof of residence in the consular district.   The applicant must provide proof of their legal residence in the consular district or that they are attending classes, in person, in the consular district. To verify your consular district, please visit the relevant web section of this Consulate.

10. Proof of the representative's identity and capacity. If the applicant is a minor, a copy of the identity document or passport of the parent, guardian or representative and of the document constituting proof of kinship or guardianship or power of attorney or the document accrediting representation must be submitted. Original documents must be shown when submitting the application. Foreign documents must be legalized or apostilled and, where applicable, must be submitted together with an official translation into Spanish.  

When necessary to assess the application, the Consular Office may request additional documents or data and may also ask the applicant to come in for a personal interview.

Procedure​​ 

This Consular Office is competent to accept visa applications from individuals residing in the consular district 

  • Who can apply for a visa: The visa application must be submitted in person by the applicant. If the applicant is a minor, the application may be submitted by one of the parents or guardians or by a duly accredited representative. 
  • Visa application period: The visa application must be submitted within a period of 2 months, counted as of the day after the date on which the applicant is notified of the decision to authorize the family reunification.  

Spain Visa Application Centre

20 St Andrew Street, London EC4A 3AG

  • Rectifying the application: The Consular Office may ask the applicant to submit any missing documents, or to provide additional documents or data that are necessary for a decision regarding the application. The applicant may also be called in for a personal interview. 
  • Decision period: The legal period for reaching a decision is of 2 months as of the day after the application submission date, but this period may be extended if an interview or additional documents are requested. 
  • Collecting the visa: T​he visa must be collected in person by the applicant or by their representative (if the applicant is a minor) within a maximum period of 1 month, counted as of the day after the date on which the favourable decision is notified. The Consular Office will inform the applicant regarding the procedure for the return of the passport and any other original documentation. 
  • Visa refusal: Visa refusals will always be notified in writing, setting forth the grounds on which the decision adopted was based. 

The appeal addressed to the Visa Department must be posted by Royal Mail or other courrier service provider to this Consulate.

  • Validity period of the visa: The visa will be valid for 90 days. Once in Spain, a Foreigner Identification Card must be applied for within a period of 1 month from the applicant's entry into Spain, at the Foreign Nationals' Office or the Police Station of the province in which the residence permit was processed. ​

SWORN TRANSLATIONS AND LEGALISATIONS

Please visit the relevant web section of this Consulate for the list of sworn translators-interpreters.

The legalisations and Hague Apostilles must legalise the signatures of the signatories of the certificates : registered medical practitioners, police officers, etc. and not the signature of notaries or solicitors who did not issue those certificates.

The Hague Apostille does not need to be translated into Spanish if one of the languages of issuance is Spanish.

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  • Spain family visa, how to join your partner or relative
  • Europe Visas

You have a relative in Spain you want to join. You have the option to apply for a Spain family visa. It allows you to stay with your relative, work, and do whatever you want. However, there are a few things you must know.

This article will tell you that who can apply for a Spain family visa, requirements, application process, validity, processing time, FAQs, and more.

Table of Contents

What is Spain Family Visa?

Spain family visa is a way for non-EU residents who live in Spain to bring their family members to the country. The legal-formal procedure to join a relative in Spain is through the family visa. The visa also gets called;

  • Spain family reunification visa
  • Spanish family visa

There are some strict rules both for the sponsor and the guest. Yet, it is not impossible to receive a family visa. When you get one, you can stay with the sponsor as long as he/she is in Spain. There are lots of advantages to it.

Spain family visa, how to join your partner or relative

Who Needs Spain Family Visa?

Whether you need a Spain family visa is a matter of your nationality. Bear in mind that a family visa for Spain is a long-stay visa. You can stay in Spain for longer than three months under a family visa.

A few countries do not need Spain family visa. Many more need it. The following list makes it clear for you:

EU, EEA, and Switzerland nationals

If you are citizens or nationals of the EU, EEA, and Switzerland, you do not need a Spain family visa. You can join your relative without a visa. Also, you do not require a residence permit either. However, you have to register with the Immigration Authorities and receive Foreigner’s Identity Number (NIE).

What if the sponsor is an EU resident, but the guest is not?

In case your relative living in Spain is an EU, EEA, or Switzerland resident, and you are not, you might not need a family visa. Yet, you have to apply for the EU family member’s residence.

Non-EU, EEA nationals

The citizens of non-EU, EEA countries can join their relatives in Spain. However, the sponsor living in Spain must comply with conditions. The sponsor must have one of the following residence permits to be eligible:

  • An EU Blue Card.
  • Staying in Spain under a student visa.
  • Residing in Spain under a research visa.
  • An EU long-term residence permit. It must be from Spain or another EU member state.

Who Can Join you under Spain Family Visa?

Spain family visa has a few limitations. It does not permit you to bring every relative. You have the authorization to bring the following family members:

Spouse or paw partner

Bringing your spouse or same-sex partner to Spain is not so hard. Yet, you have to provide the documents that prove marriage or relationship:

  • Marriage certificate or
  • Civil partnership registration

You can not bring your spouse or partner if you have married another person. It is true for the spouse living abroad. Also, you have to provide enough documents or prove that your marriage is not a convenient one.

Parents, parents-in-law

Bringing parents or in-law parents to Spain can be a bit hard. Your parents must be over 65 to be eligible for joining you. It is your responsibility to take care of them. You must have a compelling reason to bring your relatives. Being old and in need of care is one reason.

Remember that the birth certificate proves your relationship with your parents. In case you want to bring your parents-in-law, you need the marriage certificate to prove your relationship.

The most important requirement is that the sponsor must have lived in Spain under a long-term residence permit for FIVE years.

Children, children of your spouse

The child who wants to join you in Spain must not be over 18 years old. He/she must not be married either. It is also possible to bring the child up to 21 years old. Yet, there are a few rules over it. The child must prove to be studying. He/she must rely on the sponsor living in Spain for financial support. Providing that the child has a job contract in Spain, he/she can not join you. The mentioned rules are true for an adopted child. You have permission to bring your adopted child if she is eligible.

There is one exception that you can bring your child who is over 21. If the child is disabled and needs parents’ help, you can bring him/her to Spain. Yet, the disability must get proved by the officials. Also, the child’s disability must be to an acceptable level.

Spain Family Visa Requirements

There are two packages of requirements for a Spain family visa:

  • Sponsor’s requirements.
  • Guest’s requirements.

The requirements for the sponsor living in Spain are different from the guest who wants to move to the country.

Sponsor’s requirements for Spain family visa

Minimum residency

The sponsor must have stayed in Spain for at least one year. He/she must have extended the residence permit for at least another year.

It must be valid for a few months.

Residence permit

Provide a copy of the legal residence permit.

Proof of accommodation

The sponsor must prove to have enough space and conditions. His/her house must be appropriate and meet the requirements.

How should I prove my house meets the conditions?

Visit the city hall of the place you live in. Request an adequate housing report from them. They provide you a certificate. The provided certificate will evaluate all the elements.

Proof of relationship

Provide documents that you and the guest have a relationship. It is different for each family member. It got explained in the above part.

Have enough funds

The sponsor has full financial commitment over the guest. So, he/she must provide proof to have enough funds to cover the guest. You must have at least 150% of the IPREM . Providing that you wish to bring more than one family member, add another 50% of IPREM for each family member.

Also, you must prove to the officials that your income is stable over time.

The requirements based on job status

Provide a copy of the work contract and payslips for the latest six months. In other words, six payslips are required.

My job contract is about to expire. What shall I do?

If your job contract is about to expire, you are not eligible for a Spain family visa. You must hold a contract valid for at least one year . As mentioned, you have to provide a stable income over time. The officials will not consider your income stable in this case.

Self-employed

Latest income tax statement.

Health insurance

If you are self-employed, provide a copy of your private health insurance. This certificate will not be required if you are employed.

Clean record certificate

When the relative who wants to move to Spain is over 18, he/she must provide a Criminal records certificate.

Guest’s requirements

The passport must be valid for at least one year.

Two identical photos taken in the latest three months to the date of application.

Application form

Complete the application form, then print, date, and sign it.

Permission leave

If the under 18 children will join one parent, permission to leave from another one is necessary.

The guest might have to submit more documents. It depends on who he/she is (parent, child, etc.). Also, the Spanish officials could ask for additional documents for the Spain family visa.

Spain Family Visa Application Process

The application process for the Spain family visa has two parts. The sponsor living in Spain must begin the first step. Then, the guest living in a foreign country must continue the rest:

The application process for the Spain family visa is as follows:

1. Check eligibility

Before you begin the process, check whether you are eligible or not. Remember that both the sponsor living in Spain and the guest must be eligible. See the “ Requirements ” and “ who can apply for Spain family visa ” to make sure of it. Begin the process only f you can comply with the requirements.

2. Begin the application

The sponsor living in Spain must begin the application process for the Spain family visa. He/she should start the procedure with the Foreigners Office.

The sponsor should complete the application form, complete it, and then sign it. He/she must gather the requirements, as explained above. Then submit all of them to Spain’s Foreigners Office.

3. Processing

Wait until Spain’s Authorities process your application. You will get a response for up to two months . No response in this period means your application has been rejected. When the officials send a positive response, send the confirmation for the guest in your home country.

4. Applying for the Spain family visa

When the guest residing in the foreign country receives the confirmation, he/she should apply for a Spain family visa. Remember that the guest has only two months to complete the application. The guest must apply for a visa through the Spanish embassy or consulate in his/her home country.

The process for a visa is as follows:

A. Requirements

Collect all the requirements for a Spain family visa by the guest. You can find the list in the above section. Remember that the Spanish embassy could ask for additional documents.

B. Visa appointment

Set an appointment with the Spanish embassy or consulate. Visit the embassy in-time and in-person. It will be a brilliant idea to get there a few minutes early. Being late is not a good idea. Remember, you must have your documents translated into Spanish. Also, there is no copying service at the embassy. So check your documents a few times to make sure they are complete. Submit everything to the officials. Pay the fee for visa processing.

D. Processing

When you completed everything with the embassy, wait until they process your visa. The processing time depends on different factors. It might take to two months until the embassy processes your visa. When the embassy issues the visa, they will mail it to you. Now you can move to Spain to join your relative. Remember that you only have three months to move to Spain and join your family member.

After the guest arrives in Spain

Once the guest arrives in Spain, he/she has one month to apply for a Residence Permit. Residence Permit’s application is easy and straightforward. The guest has to visit the nearest Foreigner’s Office and apply for Foreigner’s Identification Card (TIE).

How Long is the Spain family visa Valid for?

It depends on the sponsor’s condition. The guest’s residence permit will be as valid as the sponsor’s. As long as the sponsor can stay in Spain, the guest can stay too. However, the sponsor must be able to pay the guest’s living costs.

Can I Extend the Spain Family visa?

Yes. You have permission to extend the Spain family visa. But remember that you can only extend it if the sponsor extends his/her residence permit. It means that if the sponsor can stay in Spain, you can extend your visa to stay in the country too.

If the guest receives an employment contract in Spain, he/she can extend the residence permit separately. In this case, the fate of the permits depends on the employment contract, not the sponsor’s residence permit.

Can I Work Under Spain Family Visa?

Yes. The spouse and children over 16 have permission to work in Spain. They do not need a work permit to do so. Their Foreigner’s Identification Card will suffice. The card authorizes them to work in Spain.

Spain Family Visa Processing time

The processing time for Spain family visa could take up to six months. There are two times to receive a response. The sponsor has to wait for an answer from the Foreigner’s Office. Then, the guest has to wait for the processing of the visa.

Applying for a Long-Term Residence permit

When the guest lives in Spain for five continuous years, he/she has permission to apply for a long-term residence permit. During this period, the guest must comply with Spanish law. Obeying regulations is a must.

Let’s sum up…

This blog introduced everything you must know about Spain family visa.

It covered who is eligible for a family visa, requirements, application process, validity, processing time, FAQ, and more.

Do you need to know more about other types of Spain visa ? Visit the left-sidebar.

Providing that you want to know about other countries’ visas, go to the home page of the Visa Library.

In case you have gained experience or knowledge about visas, share them with us in the comment section. They are great to help fo visa applicants.

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  • October 26, 2020

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spain family visit visa requirements

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spain family visit visa requirements

  • Passports, travel and living abroad
  • Travel abroad
  • Foreign travel advice

Entry requirements

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Spain set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact Spain’s embassy or consulates in the UK .

If you are planning to travel to Spain through France, check the latest FCDO travel advice for France before you start your journey.

If you are planning to travel to Spain through Gibraltar, check the latest FCDO travel advice for Gibraltar before you start your journey.

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Spain.

Passport validity requirements

If you are planning to travel to an EU country (except Ireland), or Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino or Vatican City, you must follow the Schengen area passport requirements .

Your passport must be:

  • issued less than 10 years before the date you enter the country (check the ‘date of issue’)
  • valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave (check the ‘expiry date’)

Check your passport meets these requirements before you travel. If your passport was issued before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added to its expiry date.

Contact Spain’s embassy or consulates in the UK if you think that your passport does not meet both these requirements. Renew your passport if you need to .

Visa requirements

You can travel to countries in the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. This applies if you travel as a tourist, to visit family or friends, to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events, or for short-term studies or training.

If travelling to Spain and other Schengen countries without a visa, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day limit. Visits to Schengen countries within the previous 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days.

To stay longer, to work or study, for business travel or for other reasons, you need to meet the Spanish government’s entry requirements. Check with Spain’s embassy or consulates in the UK before you travel about what type of visa or work permit you may need.

If travelling to Spain for work , read the guidance on visas and permits.

If you cannot return to the UK before the expiry of your visa, permit or visa-free limit, contact the Spanish government’s national information service (In Spanish, English speaking operators are available). You can dial 060 from a Spanish phoneline.

If you are visiting Spain and need to extend your visa-free stay for exceptional reasons, such as a medical emergency, you must apply to the immigration authorities (‘Extranjería’) (in Spanish).

If you stay in Spain with a residence permit or long-stay visa, this does not count towards your 90-day visa-free limit.

Passport stamping

Check your passport is stamped as you enter or exit the Schengen area through Spain as a visitor.

Border guards check you’re complying with the 90-day visa-free limit for short stays in the Schengen area. If you do not have relevant entry or exit stamps in your passport, they will assume you have overstayed.

You can show evidence of when and where you entered or exited the Schengen area, and ask the border guards to add this date and location in your passport. Examples of acceptable evidence includes boarding passes and tickets.

Use the desks staffed by border officers. If you are aged 18 or over, and airport staff instruct you to, you may be able to use e-gates where they are in operation.

If you use an e-gate, make sure you get your passport stamped by a border officer.

Additional documents required by tourists

If you enter the Schengen area as a tourist, you may need to provide additional documents at the border. As well as a valid return or onward ticket, when travelling to Spain you could be asked to show:

  • you have enough money for your stay
  • a hotel booking confirmation
  • proof of address if visiting your own property (such as second home)
  • an invitation or proof of address if staying with a third party, friends or family. A carta de invitation completed by your hosts is one of the options available.

You can visit the Spanish Ministry of Interior website for more information (only available in Spanish).

Residents of Spain

If you are resident in Spain your passport should not be stamped when entering or leaving Spain.

Actively show your proof of residence, such as the foreigner’s identity card (‘la tarjeta de identidad de extranjero’ or ‘TIE’), when presenting your passport at Spanish border control. For further information, read about living in Spain .

Travel between Spain and Gibraltar

Spanish border checks can cause delays when crossing between Spain and Gibraltar. If you are travelling to Spain through Gibraltar, check the travel advice for entry requirements for Gibraltar .

There is no charge to enter or leave Gibraltar. You should not hand over money to anybody claiming there is a charge.

Unaccompanied minors

Spanish law considers anyone under 18 to be a minor. If an unaccompanied minor comes to the attention of the Spanish authorities (particularly in connection with criminal incidents or when in hospital) they will be considered vulnerable and may be taken to a minors centre until a parent or guardian is found.

Vaccination requirements (other than COVID-19)

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need on TravelHealthPro .

Customs rules

There are strict rules about what goods can be taken into and out of Spain. You can find details on the National Tax Agency leaflet (in Spanish and English). Declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Taking food and drink into Spain

You cannot take meat, milk or products containing them into EU countries. There are some exceptions for medical reasons, for example certain amounts of powdered infant milk, infant food, or pet food required for medical reasons. Check the rules about taking food and drink into the EU on the European Commission website.

Taking money and goods into Spain

Check the National Airport Association website for guidance on taking money and goods into and out of Spain.

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spain family visit visa requirements

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Spain Tourist Visa Requirements: A Comprehensive Guide

Amisha Kumari

Updated On Dec 18, 2023

spain family visit visa requirements

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Spain Tourist Visa Requirements

How to apply for a spain tourist visa for visitors, where should i submit my application for a spain tourist visa, when should i apply, how long does it take to get a tourist visa for spain, spain tourist/visitor visa validity, can i extend my spain tourist/visitor visa.

Want to Live life like ‘Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara”? Well, Spain is the right tourist destination for you then! Spain’s allure, nestled in Southwestern Europe, shines with its sun-drenched skies, a stark contrast to many European destinations. Understanding the Spain tourist visa requirements is key if you seek a 90-day jaunt under the Schengen visa. This pass allows exploration not only of Spain but also of the 26 other Schengen countries, promising a grand European odyssey.

For a Spanish tourist visa, ensure a valid passport, financial proof, itinerary details, medical insurance, and invitation letters. These documents are essential requirements for your seamless exploration of Spain.

  • Valid passport with a duration exceeding the intended visa period by three months
  • Previous passports (if applicable)
  • 2 passport-sized photos
  • Completed and signed application form copy
  • Evidence of hotel and flight bookings, along with a detailed itinerary for your stay in Spain
  • Copy of tour ticket and return ticket reservation
  • Proof of adequate financial means to cover travel expenses and stay
  • Valid medical insurance with a minimum coverage of 30,000 pounds
  • A cover letter stating the purpose of your visit and your planned itinerary
  • Evidence of accommodation arrangements during your stay
  • Documentation of civil status (e.g., marriage certificate, children's birth certificate)
  • Invitation letter including the address and contact details of family or sponsor
  • Bank statements from the last six months

Confused between visa and passport? Read this: What is The Difference Between a Visa and a Passport?

how to apply for a Spain tourist visa for visitors

Securing a Spain Tourist or Visitor visa involves a systematic process. First, complete the requisite application form and gather the necessary documentation. Then, arrange and attend an interview, finalizing the application by fulfilling the stipulated tourist visa fees. Applying for a Spain Tourist or Visitor visa involves these steps

1. Complete the Tourist/Visitor Visa Application Form:

  • Obtain the application form for a Spain tourist visa from the official website of the Spanish consulate or embassy where you intend to apply.
  • Fill out the form accurately and completely, providing all the required personal information, travel details, purpose of visit, and other relevant information.

2. Gather the Necessary Documents:

  • Compile all the necessary supporting documents required for the visa application. Common documents might include:
  • Valid passport with a minimum of six months' validity beyond your intended stay.
  • Passport-sized photographs meeting the specified requirements.
  • Travel itinerary, including flight reservations and accommodation details.
  • Proof of financial means to cover expenses during your stay in Spain, such as bank statements, sponsorship letters, or proof of employment.
  • Travel insurance covering medical expenses and repatriation for the duration of your stay in Spain.
  • Proof of ties to your home country, such as employment letters, property ownership, or family ties, to demonstrate your intention to return after the visit.

3. Schedule an Interview: Check the consulate or embassy website for the specific procedure to schedule an appointment for a visa interview. Some locations might require appointments to be made online or through designated agencies.

4. Attend the Interview Session:

  • Arrive at the embassy or consulate at the scheduled time for your visa interview.
  • Be prepared to answer questions about your travel plans, intentions, financial situation, and ties to your home country.
  • Present your documents and application form to the visa officer for review.

5. Submit the Required Tourist Visa Fees:

  • Pay the visa application fee as per the instructions provided by the embassy or consulate.
  • Payment methods might vary depending on the location, so ensure you have the necessary means to pay the fees.

The intake and processing of your application fall under Spanish jurisdiction only if Spain serves as your primary Schengen destination, indicating:

  • Sole visitation to Spain without traveling to any other Schengen country.
  • Visits to multiple Schengen nations, with Spain as the longest stay among them.
  • Equal duration stays in various Schengen countries but entering the borderless region via Spain.

Once confirmed Spanish authorities oversee your visa application, and identify the appropriate Spanish representation for submission:

  • Spanish embassy or consulate in your country of residence.
  • A Visa Application Center is contacted for visa processing by Spain in your country.
  • One of the above options in a neighboring country if unavailable in your country of residence.

Read More: Visa Comparison: Single Entry vs Multiple Entry Visa

As per Spain's Short Stay visa regulations, you can apply for a visa as early as six months before your intended trip to Spain, with the latest application accepted up to two weeks before your departure date.

Typically, Schengen embassies, including Spanish ones, must handle short-term tourist and visit visa applications within 15 days. However, under certain circumstances, this timeframe might extend to 30 or even 60 days. This extension could occur due to a high volume of applications at the embassy or based on the particulars of your case.

Know More: Difference Between Visit Visa & Tourist Visa: What You Need to Know

A tourist or visitor visa for Spain allows a maximum duration of three months within six months. However, the issuing authority determines the visa's validity based on their discretion and judgment of reasonableness.

The Spain friends and family visit visa allows a maximum stay of 90 days. Should you require an extension beyond this duration, you can request it before your visa expires. Extensions are granted based on significant personal reasons, delayed entry, Force Majeure, or humanitarian grounds.

Smooth Transition to Spain with GetGIS!

Dreaming of a hassle-free travel to Spain? We are GetGIS , your reliable companion in realizing your aspiration of commencing a memorable vacation in Spain. Our tailored immigration solutions and wealth of expertise ensure a seamless journey toward your goals. Whether it's for education, work, travel, or a thrilling escapade, GetGIS navigates the intricate immigration maze, facilitating a trouble-free shift to your new Spanish abode. Don't delay your pursuit of a brighter tomorrow. Connect with GetGIS today and let us pave the way for your new life in Spain! Schedule a Free Consultation Today!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Visit Other Countries With my Spain Visa?

Can I Work in Spain with a Tourist Visa?

Can I Join my Family Members in Spain With a Visitor Visa?

What is the Visa Processing Fees?

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Amisha Kumari

Amisha Kumari , 

Content Marketing Specialist

She is dedicated to aiding individuals in making successful career transitions, drawing upon his extensive experience across various industries. Her skill set is marked by thorough research abilities and a genuine passion for sharing knowledge that empower readers with insightful information.

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Spain’s digital nomad visa one year on: How are remote workers and locals getting along?

A year after Spain launched a special digital nomad visa to encourage foreign business talent to move to the country, it has met with muted success.

Some 300 foreign nationals were granted the visa up until 31 December 2023, the Spanish Foreign Ministry said, but it did not disclose their nationalities.

The relatively small number may relate to the problems encountered by some applicants keen to make a new life under the Iberian sun.

Some said it was hard to fulfil all the visa’s demands like proving they pay social security in their own country. Others complained of the endless paperwork involved in the process.

Euronews Travel spoke to visa experts, applicants and locals to find out more.

How easy is it to get a digital nomad visa in Spain?

Visa experts who help digital nomads to conquer this bureaucracy told Euronews Travel that it was not as easy as it seems to secure this ticket to work in Spain.

“The digital nomad visa can be complex if you are unfamiliar with the requirements,” says Maria José Muñoz Gomez, owner of immigration consultancy Help At Hand Spain. “It’s certainly quite an intensive process to get everything lined up.”

The visa, which is aimed at all citizens from outside the European Economic Area, was designed to offer tax incentives to lure talented foreign workers who, it is hoped, will stay in Spain long term.

To get a visa, a person must prove they have paid social security and have been working in their own country.

“For all applicants, getting the right paperwork to prove your professional relationships with a registered company is vital,” says Maria.

You’ll also need to understand the social security system and how you will be taxed once you are approved, which requires coordination with the tax authority in your own country, she explains.

“It is possible to apply yourself, however some applicants may prefer to have a lawyer or immigration professional helping them to get approval and navigate the complexity,” says Maria.

‘The visa required a lot of paperwork’

Pinak Pushkar knows from experience what it takes to get a digital nomad visa in Spain. He moved to the country with his wife Cathy, where she gave birth to their son in August.

The family left London for Moraira in southeastern Spain in April last year and applied for the visa from their adopted country.

However, it was far from easy, says Pinak, a project manager.

“The visa required a lot of paperwork and I got the impression that the [Spanish] did not understand or welcome the UK structures of employment,” he tells Euronews Travel.

Bulgaria and Romania join Schengen: Experts on what it will mean for prices, transport & overtourism

‘Hardly any travellers have heard of it’: Spain’s best hidden gems according to a tour guide

“I generally got the impression the whole process was the offspring of proportional representation, where one of the parties in the [Spanish] coalition government wanted to invite foreign capital, but the other wasn’t so keen.”

Pinak points to the original touted tax rate of 15 per cent for digital nomads “that just didn’t make much traction to legislation”.

He says there also seems to be a “suspicion of UK limited company structures”. These normally see directors pay themselves in dividends with their salaries being a very small part of their overall package, he explains.

“I was aware that UK limited company directors were being knocked back because of this, so during the months of my application I asked my accountants to issue me pay checks instead of dividends. I am not sure how efficient this process was, but I think it certainly helped my application.”

‘The lifestyle is so much better than London’

In the end, despite the difficulties, securing the visa has been worthwhile.

“The lifestyle is so much better than London. Here we have a villa, with a swimming pool and I can look out at the sea and the food is good,” says Pinak, speaking from the terrace of his new seaside home.

Pinak, 46, says that the couple wanted to have children but to buy a house in London would have involved selling two flats which he and his wife owned. They believed they could have a better quality of life in Spain - at a lower cost.

His wife Cathy, 38, runs a fashion website but is taking time off to be with her son.

How have digital nomads been received in Spain?

While the idea of upping sticks and working from a laptop anywhere in the world has proved hugely popular, it’s not always well received by locals.

Barcelona and Malaga are magnets for nomads, principally because both have well-developed tech hubs connected to local authorities and large tech-based companies.

The Canary Islands has also offered specific incentives to digital nomads who work in this sector.

However, in Las Palmas in Gran Canaria, graffiti painted on a wall saying ‘Go Home Digital Nomads and Tourists’ is testimony to the antipathy some feel towards these new arrivals.

Malaga’s streets were also recently emblazoned with anti-tourism stickers saying “This used to be my home” and urging tourists to “get the hell out of here”.

‘Community life is not as rich’

The arrival of a large number of foreigners with few local links changes the social fabric of cities like Barcelona , believes Antonio López-Gay, a migration expert at the Autonomous University of Barcelona.

He carried out an investigation into floating populations in the Barrio Gótico, an area in central Barcelona which is popular with nomads and tourists.

“We found that community life is not as rich. You trust the people you know in a community, but if your new neighbour is someone who has just moved in a few weeks ago, then you might not do that,” says Antonio.

“What suffers is the social cohesion of an area.”

However, Ricardo Urrestarazu, an expert in tourism investment at the University of Malaga , believes nomads could be a positive influence if they integrated more with local society.

“Unfortunately, some do not integrate into local society and behave much like tourists . They are not there long enough to do that,” he tells Euronews Travel.

Are digital nomads driving up rent prices in Spain?

In Barcelona, in areas like Gracia, Poblenou and the Barrio Gótico, rents have risen as the digital nomads have arrived.

“In many cases, they earn more money than local people and this can mean that this drives up the cost of rental accommodation,” says Ricardo. “This is when people start to feel resentment towards them.”

The income threshold for Spain’s digital nomad visa is set at 200 per cent of the country's monthly minimum wage. This amounts to €2,268 per month or around €27,200 per year.

Tourist taxes, bus bans and TikTok: How Europe’s popular cities are tackling overcrowding

Under the digital nomad visa, workers also pay a lower rate of income tax than the average Spanish tax rate, if they are earning more than €60,000 as an employee.

This gives them higher purchasing power, which has led some inner city landlords to raise rental costs, pricing Spanish residents out.

Ana Miquel, 66, a pensioner from Barcelona, wanted to move to Gracia - a fashionable area of the city - but could not afford to.

“They wanted to charge me €3,000 per month. I said ‘I can’t afford that!’ They said I was lucky that they did not want €3,000 per month with six months paid before I moved in,” says Ana, who worked in one of the city’s plushest hotels as a PR manager.

Similar problems have been experienced in Portugal , where remote workers have been blamed for driving up rents and contributing to a housing crisis. This has led the country to crackdown on ‘golden’ investor visas and Airbnb rentals - measures that could soon also be taken in Spain.

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COMMENTS

  1. Spain Family Visa Requirements and Application Process

    Start the Application in Spain. As the family member living in Spain, you must be the one to start the application for family reunification at one of the immigration offices. You must submit these documents: EX-02 Form. Your valid passport, issued within ten years and valid for the next four months. Copies of passport pages.

  2. Family visas for Spain: how to join a relative or partner

    After the Spanish authorities grant the visa, the joining relative will have three months to travel to Spain with the visa. Visa costs. The fee for a family reunification visa will depend on your nationality. Payment methods for a Spain visa application also differ from one country to the other.

  3. Eligibilities & Requirements for Spain Family Visa

    Family members of legal residents in Spain are eligible to apply for a family visa. This includes the following family members: Spouse of the applicant or the partner of the applicant who is entered on the public register and with whom the applicant had established a relationship before he/she settled in Spain.

  4. EU Visa for Visiting Family, Friends or Relatives

    A Schengen visitor visa, formally known as a Schengen type C visa, is a short-term entry permit to the Schengen Area, allowing you to explore the area and visit family members or friends. It offers the flexibility to serve as both a tourist visa and a visitor visa, catering to various travel purposes while ensuring an enjoyable personal ...

  5. How to Come to Spain with your Family

    1. Family Reunification Visa in Spain. Any relative hoping to visit their non-European Union family member living in Spain will need a family reunification visa. Relatives eligible to apply for this type of visa include: Civil partnerships. Dependent children. Parents over the age of 65.

  6. Visas for family members of a citizen of the Union

    The visa for family members of a Union citizen entitles the holder to stay in the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. It also allows transit through the territory and airports. Family members of Union citizens who wish to remain in Spain beyond 90 days must, once in Spain, submit an application with the competent authorities ...

  7. Friends and Family Visit Visa for Spain: How to Apply

    The Spanish friend and family visit visa is a short-stay permit for individuals who want to visit their relatives and friends in Spain. ... For more inquiries about the Schengen Visitor Visa for Spain and its requirements, contact our immigration lawyers today. Call us at (+44) 333 4149244, or reach us online. Request a call back from our ...

  8. Visa and passport. Entry requirements for Spain

    When you need visas and entry requirements. The passport or travel document is always required and must be valid for up to three months after the expected date of departure from the Schengen area, and must have been issued within the previous 10 years to the date of entry. Citizens of the European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland may enter and travel within Spain with ...

  9. Spain Tourist Visa

    A Spain Short-Stay Tourist Visa is a permit that allows you to travel to Spain for the main purpose of performing touristic activities, like vacation, sightseeing, exploring and visiting friends or family members living in Spain and staying there for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period. Do I Need to Apply for […]

  10. Spain International Travel Information

    Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). See the State Department's travel website for the Worldwide Caution and Travel Advisories.

  11. Family Reunification Visa in Spain 2023 (Complete Guide)

    The family reunification visa is the immigration procedure through which a non-European citizen with a residence permit in Spain can bring their relatives to the country; granting them a residence and work permit.. It is important to keep in mind that only those foreigners in Spain who have renewed their initial residence authorization are eligible to begin this process.

  12. Spain Family Visas

    The Schengen Visa is a short-term visa that allows non-EU/EEA citizens to visit family members in Spain for a short while. You can stay with your family for up to 90 days in a 180-day period and must leave at the stipulated period. Unlike the Family Reunification Visa, you can not work, be self-employed, or enrol on a study program.

  13. Spain

    Where to apply. You must first apply for family reunification at the Provincial Aliens Affairs Office.. If your application is successful and you get a residence permit for the purpose of family reunification in Spain, your family members can apply for a residence visa at the Embassy or Consulate in your country of residence.. Documents required

  14. Spain Visa Requirements

    Required Documents for a Spain Visa Application. The main requirements for a visa to Spain are: Visa Application Form. Two biometric photos in line with Spain requirements. Your passport. Copies of passport pages with info. Flight reservation. Proof of accommodation. Medical Insurance.

  15. Spain Tourist Visa

    A tourist visa for Spain is a category C short stay visa which is granted to visitors who are travelling to Spain for their holiday i.e. for tourism purposes. Your Schengen tourist visa for Spain allows you to stay in the country for 90 days maximum over a 180 day period (the " 90 days rule" in Spain). This visa will also allow you to visit ...

  16. General scheme for the family reunification visa

    Visa application period: The visa application must be submitted within a period of 2 months, counted as of the day after the date on which the applicant is notified of the decision to authorize the family reunification. Place of submission: BLS. Spain Visa Application Centre Spain Visa Application Centre. 20 St Andrew Street, London EC4A 3AG

  17. How Long is the Spain family visa Valid for?

    Spain Family Visa Processing time. The processing time for Spain family visa could take up to six months. There are two times to receive a response. The sponsor has to wait for an answer from the Foreigner's Office. Then, the guest has to wait for the processing of the visa.

  18. Entry requirements

    You can travel to countries in the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. This applies if you travel as a tourist, to visit family or friends, to attend business ...

  19. Spain Tourist Visa Requirements: A Comprehensive Guide

    Understanding the Spain tourist visa requirements is key if you seek a 90-day jaunt under the Schengen visa. This pass allows exploration not only of Spain but also of the 26 other Schengen countries, promising a grand European odyssey. ... The Spain friends and family visit visa allows a maximum stay of 90 days. Should you require an extension ...

  20. Spanish visas: how to immigrate to Spain

    Spain's visa rules dictate that you must meet certain requirements to receive a short-stay Schengen visa. These include showing proof of valid travel insurance, a round-trip itinerary, and proof of sufficient financial means (€100 per day, with a minimum of €900 per person regardless of the intended duration of the stay).

  21. PDF SHORT STAY VISA

    ₒ For Tourist: Confirmed Hotel Reservations (for the entire stay in Schengen area) ₒ If Invited by Family/Friend: Invitation letter issued by the Spanish Police, or an invitation letter including the photocopy of the sponsor's passport and/or D.N.I., or residence card and registration of residency ("empadronamiento").

  22. Spain's digital nomad visa one year on: How are remote ...

    The family left London for Moraira in southeastern Spain in April last year and applied for the visa from their adopted country. However, it was far from easy, says Pinak, a project manager.

  23. Spain Long Stay Visas

    A Long Stay Visa for Spain is a permit to enter and remain in Spain for a period longer than three months. It enables its holder not only to reside in Spain, but also to perform several activities, which the Spain Schengen Visa prohibits. Long Stay Visa for Spain is also known as the Spanish Long-Term Visa or the Spain National Visa (D Visa).