Services
Residency for Spaniards
About the service
What is the Residency for Spaniards
The Family Member of a Spanish Citizen Residence Permit is a residence authorization designed for non-EU nationals who have a qualifying family relationship with a Spanish citizen and wish to live together in Spain.
It allows you to legally reside and work in Spain for an initial period of five years, offering a stable and long-term pathway to settle in the country.
This permit is particularly relevant for spouses or partners, children, parents, and other dependent family members of Spanish nationals who want to reunite and build their life in Spain under a clear legal framework.
One of its main advantages is that it grants full access to the Spanish labor market from the start, meaning you can work as an employee or as a self-employed professional without needing to apply for a separate work authorization.
To qualify, you must prove the existence of the family relationship with the Spanish citizen and, where applicable, demonstrate financial dependency or specific circumstances recognized under Spanish immigration law.
Enjoy all the Benefits it has to offer
The benefits of Residency for Spaniards
Live and Reside in Spain
Enjoy the right to live in Spain alongside your Spanish family member with full legal residency.
Full Right to Work
Work in Spain as an employee or self-employed without needing a separate work authorization.
Pathway to Permanent Residency
After 5 years of legal residence, you may apply for long-term or permanent residency in Spain.
Access to Spanish Nationality
In certain cases, benefit from reduced timelines to apply for Spanish citizenship.
Are you eligible?
Requirements to apply for a Residency for Spaniards
Eligible Family Relationship
Spouse, registered or stable partner, children, parents, or other dependent family members of a Spanish citizen.
Proof of Family Link
You must provide official documentation proving your relationship with the Spanish citizen, and dependency where applicable.
Valid Passport
Both the Spanish citizen and the foreign applicant must provide valid identification documents.
Criminal Record Certificate
A certificate covering the last 5 years, legalized/apostilled and translated if required.
Medical Certificate
Proof that the applicant does not suffer from diseases with public health implications under international regulations.
How can Marfour help you?
The Family Member of a Spanish Citizen residence process involves strict legal requirements, detailed documentation, and careful preparation. Any inconsistencies can lead to delays or rejection.
Our legal experts manage the entire process, from verifying your family relationship and eligibility to preparing your documentation and coordinating with Spanish authorities. We ensure your application is compliant, efficient, and handled correctly from the beginning, so you can focus on your move to Spain.
Assess Your Family Eligibility
We review your relationship with the Spanish citizen and confirm that you meet the legal criteria for this residence permit.
Organize and Prepare Your Documents
We help you gather and structure all required documentation, including proof of relationship, dependency (if applicable), and official certificates.
Handle the Application Process
We guide you through the correct application route, whether through Spain or a Consulate, ensuring everything is submitted properly and within the required timelines.
Ensure Legal Consistency
We review your application in detail to make sure it complies fully with Spanish immigration regulations and avoids common issues.
Clarity and Confidence Throughout
We keep you informed at every stage, so you understand the process and can move forward with confidence.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions about the Residency for Spaniards
Can I live in Spain immediately after submitting the application?
Yes. Once you submit your application and receive the official receipt, you are considered to be in a legal situation in Spain until a decision is issued.
Can I work in Spain with this permit?
Yes. This residence permit grants full access to the Spanish labor market, allowing you to work as an employee or self-employed without a separate work authorization.
Does residency count towards Spanish Nationality?
Yes. Each year of residency in Spain counts towards Spanish Nationality.
Is there a processing time limit?
Yes. The authorities have up to 2 months to issue a decision. If no response is received, the application is considered denied due to administrative silence.
How long does the residence card last?
The residence card is valid for 5 years from the date of issue.
What documents must be translated?
All foreign documents must be translated into Spanish by a sworn translator.
Can Spanish permit lead to permanent residence?
Yes. After 5 years, you may be eligible to apply for long-term or permanent residency in Spain.
What happens if my application is denied?
You may file an administrative appeal (recurso de reposición) within 1 month from the notification of the denial.
Can Spaniards apply for this visa?
Yes, children whose father or mother is or was a Spaniard by origin.