Undoubtedly, living in Spain has not only brought benefits but also significant sacrifices. Moving away from the customs of your country of origin and your closest friends is just one of them. However, undoubtedly, the most challenging aspect of all is having had to leave behind your closest relatives.
In this article, we will discuss which family members are eligible for regrouping upon obtaining Spanish nationality, so you know who you can regroup and how to do it.
What is family regrouping?
Family regrouping is an immigration procedure through which a foreign person who has Spanish residency can regroup their family members in Spain with a residency and work permit. It is worth noting that family regrouping can only be requested by those foreigners who have renewed their initial residency permit, and you must demonstrate that the person you want to regroup is financially dependent on you.
Which relatives are eligible for regrouping once you obtain Spanish nationality?
- Spouse: In this situation, the spouse of a Spanish resident or of any other resident of the European Union residing in Spanish territory. That is, the non-separated spouse in fact or by law, provided that the marriage has not been celebrated in fraud of the law.
- Common-law partner registered in a Public Registry: The non-EU resident who is the partner of a Spanish resident or of any other resident of the European Union residing in Spanish territory. Registered in a Public Registry of Common-law Partnerships, whether regional or local, that does not allow duplication of registration.
- Children under 21 years old: Children of the Spanish resident or non-EU resident spouse or common-law partner registered in a public registry of a Spanish resident or EU citizen. Always and once they have authorization from the other parent if applicable, without the need to demonstrate economic dependence.
- Dependent children over 21 years old: Children of the non-EU resident spouse or common-law partner registered in a public registry, of a Spanish resident or EU citizen residing in Spanish territory. Therefore, children of a Spanish or EU citizen, as well as of the registered common-law partner. Once they have reached the age of 21 or older, it is necessary to prove that they are dependent on the money provided by the Spanish family member.
- Dependent ascendants: This refers to the situation of the mother, father, mother-in-law, father-in-law of the Spanish resident or of the spouse or common-law partner registered in a public registry, of a Spanish resident or EU citizen residing in Spanish territory. The parents must be dependent in the country of origin or residence, regardless of the age of the ascendant.
- Extended family: Any relative who, at the time of the request, was dependent on or lived with the Spanish or EU resident residing in Spanish territory. Relatives who, due to serious health reasons or disability, it is strictly necessary for the EU citizen to personally take care of them.
- Unregistered common-law partner: A stable relationship will be understood as one that demonstrates the existence of a lasting bond. In this case, the existence of such a relationship is evidenced once there is at least one year of previous marital cohabitation or if there is common offspring. Only proof of stable cohabitation will be necessary. Once you have been able to bring any of these relatives and they are already in Spain with you, you can apply for the Residence Card of a Family Member of a Union Citizen. This is a process that should be initiated at the Foreigners Office of your residence, and once the card is issued, it will be valid for 5 years.
Marta Palacios Cuesta is the founder and principal consultant of Es Abogado Extranjería, a law firm specializing in immigration law in Madrid and Seville. With an impressive academic background, Marta offers expert advice on immigration procedures, residency processes and obtaining Spanish nationality. Committed to providing personalized and up-to-date solutions, her firm stands out for its detailed and professional approach. If you need legal guidance regarding your status in Spain, contact Marta for a personalized consultation at Es Abogado Extranjería.
