Family Member of a Spanish/EU Citizen
Non-EU spouses, partners, children and dependent relatives of Spanish or EU citizens.
The Family Member of a Spanish/EU Citizen is a Spanish family & partner visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~€12 card fee (Modelo 790-012)) and processing time (~1-3 months), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Family Member of a Spanish/EU Citizen is for
Non-EU spouses, partners, children and dependent relatives of Spanish or EU citizens.
After 5 years, permanent residence as a family member of an EU citizen.
Family Member of a Spanish/EU Citizen - eligibility criteria
- Qualifying tie to a Spanish or EU citizen (spouse, registered/stable partner, child, dependant)
- Proof of relationship (marriage, registry, 12 months cohabitation or shared children)
- EU/Spanish citizen exercising residence rights in Spain
- Health cover where required
- Clean criminal record
Family Member of a Spanish/EU Citizen cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Family Member of a Spanish/EU Citizen (Spain) is ~€12 card fee (Modelo 790-012), with an indicative processing time of ~1-3 months. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Spain - Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
| Type | Residence |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | In Spain (now possible from territory under RD 1155/2024) |
| Length of stay | 5-year residence and work card, renewable |
| Work rights | Full work rights from day one |
| Study rights | Permitted |
| Government fee | ~€12 card fee (Modelo 790-012) |
| Processing time | ~1-3 months |
| Route to PR | After 5 years, permanent residence as a family member of an EU citizen. |
Pathway & next steps
After 5 years, permanent residence as a family member of an EU citizen.
Many applicants also compare Reagrupación · Family Reunification (Reagrupación Familiar), Nacionalidad · Spanish Citizenship by Residence, Larga Duración · Long-Term Residence (Residencia de Larga Duración). Run a free VisaChief check to see which Spanish route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Family Member of a Spanish/EU Citizen pitfalls we fix
Family Member of a Spanish/EU Citizen - frequently asked questions
How much does the Family Member of a Spanish/EU Citizen cost?
The Family Member of a Spanish/EU Citizen government fee is ~€12 card fee (Modelo 790-012). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Spain - Ministry of Foreign Affairs before applying.
How long does the Family Member of a Spanish/EU Citizen take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~1-3 months. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Family Member of a Spanish/EU Citizen lead to permanent residence?
After 5 years, permanent residence as a family member of an EU citizen.
Can I work on the Family Member of a Spanish/EU Citizen?
Work rights: Full work rights from day one.
Who can apply for the Family Member of a Spanish/EU Citizen?
Non-EU spouses, partners, children and dependent relatives of Spanish or EU citizens.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Spain government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Spain - Ministry of Foreign Affairs - official Spain immigration authority