Q&A · Family · updated 04.07.2026
Can I move my family on a Spanish residence permit?
Updated: 4 July 2026 · Verified against official sources
Yes, family reunification (reagrupación familiar) is a legal right of a Spanish resident. Your spouse, minor children and dependent parents unable to work can obtain a residence permit following you. The key requirement is proven income and housing.
Who you can bring over
Under the rules of RD 1155/2024 the following family members qualify for reunification:
- A spouse or registered partner (pareja de hecho).
- Minor children of both spouses, including adopted children.
- Adult children, if they are unable to work and are financially dependent on you.
- Parents of the permit holder or their spouse — with documented inability to work or dependency.
Financial thresholds
Income is calculated by formula: for a family of two — at least €900/month; each additional family member adds €300/month. The final threshold depends on the basis of your residence permit: holders of the NLV and DNV apply add-ons under their own formulas, while the base calculation for reunification always starts at 150% of IPREM (Spain's public income index).
The exact threshold for your family composition is easy to work out in the 2026 income calculator.
Step by step: how to apply for reunification
- Wait for your first residence permit renewal. The right to reunification arises once your residence permit has been renewed at least once (or was originally issued for a term longer than one year).
- Prepare your relative's documents. Passport, marriage/birth certificate with an apostille and sworn translation, criminal record certificate (valid for 90 days as of the filing date), and health insurance.
- Submit the application using form EX-02. The resident files it in person with the UGE or the Oficina de Extranjería (immigration office) at their place of residence. Attach proof of income and a rental or ownership contract for housing of adequate size.
- Your relative receives a type D visa. Once the application is approved, the Spanish consulate in their country of residence issues a national entry visa.
- Entry and applying for the TIE (foreigner ID card). After entering Spain, your relative has 1 month to apply for the TIE card.
📋 A personalised document checklist for reunification — tailored to your permit basis and family composition — is built by the checklist generator. It takes 2 minutes.
This is a preliminary assessment based on official sources, not individual legal advice. Your case may differ — we will review your situation for free.
Official sources: BOE — Spanish legislation · Ministry of Inclusion and Migration · Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs