Residence Permit for Family Members of Spaniards
For those with a Spanish spouse or close family member, Spain's new residence permit offers a clear and simplified route to live and work in Spain legally. Below is a summary of what it means and how to apply.
WHAT'S THIS PERMIT?
In May 2025, Spain introduced the Residence Permit for Relatives of Spanish Nationals. It's designed to make it easier for Spanish citizens and their non-EU family members to live and work together in Spain.
WHAT IT REPLACES
This permit replaces the old Arraigo Familiar route, which was an authorization for certain relatives of Spanish citizens.
WHO IS THIS FOR?
The following relatives of a Spanish national may qualify:
- Spouses, registered partners, and stable cohabiting couples — Living together for at least a year, or less if they have children.
- Children under 26 — Or older if they have a disability, including adopted children under 18.
- Parents, grandparents, or legal guardians — Who are dependent on the Spanish citizen.
NOTE: This permit only applies to relatives of Spanish nationals. If your relative is another EU citizen, a different process applies (the EU Family Card).
HOW TO APPLY
→ Who applies: The Spanish citizen can submit the application at their local immigration office or online via the Mercurio platform.
→ Where to apply: In Spain (if you're legally present) or through the Spanish consulate abroad.
→ Processing time: It depends — sometimes as quickly as two months, but often longer given delays at Spanish immigration offices.
→ After approval: You'll need to apply for your TIE (residence card), which will be good for 5 years.
→ Required Documents: Passport, completed application forms, criminal record certificate (covering the last five years), and proof of your relationship or dependency. Any foreign documents must be apostilled and translated into Spanish.
FINAL THOUGHTS
This new permit creates a straightforward route for families to reunite or move to Spain. It eliminates much of the uncertainty of older permits, grants immediate work rights, and sets you on a clear path to permanent residence after five years. You also won't need to renew your TIE during that period. Additionally, after one year, the spouse of a Spaniard can also apply for Spanish nationality.
HOW WE CAN HELP
At Blueprint Spain, we handle the entire process– from assessing eligibility and preparing documents to submitting your application and managing apostilles, translations, and TIE appointments.
If you believe you qualify, contact us and we can evaluate your case and walk you through each step of the process.