Spouse Visa Overview
The Spain Spouse Visa is the specific pathway within the broader Family Reunification framework for the husband, wife, or registered partner of a person legally residing in Spain to join them, governed by Real Decreto 1155/2024. This Spain Visa category recognises both opposite-sex and same-sex marriages, and registered partners (pareja de hecho) with an official registration certificate; notably, at least 12 months of documented cohabitation is now accepted as an alternative to formal registry inscription, evidenced through rental agreements, utility bills, or municipal registration in both names. The sponsoring spouse must meet an income threshold of 150% of the IPREM and provide proof of adequate housing. Since RD 1155/2024, spouses generally receive automatic work authorisation alongside their reunification permit, without needing a separate work permit application. Approval is decided solely by the relevant Spanish authorities and consulate.
Eligibility
You may apply for a Spain Spouse Visa if:
- You are legally married to a Spanish citizen or a person who is legally residing in Spain and is eligible to sponsor your application.
- You can provide a valid marriage certificate and other documents proving the authenticity of your marital relationship.
- Your spouse meets the applicable financial and accommodation requirements, where required by the Spanish immigration authorities.
- You have a valid passport and can provide all supporting documents required for the visa application.
- You meet the health insurance and other immigration requirements applicable to your visa category.
- You satisfy the eligibility criteria established by the Spanish immigration authorities for spouses of eligible residents or citizens.
The primary purpose of your stay should be to join or reunite with your spouse in Spain. Your marriage certificate, relationship evidence, sponsor’s supporting documents, financial records, and other required documentation should clearly demonstrate your eligibility for a Spain Spouse Visa.
Government Visa Fees
| Fee Type | Government Fee (EUR) |
| Visa Fee, per Applicant | Varies by nationality; confirm at exteriores.gob.es |
| TIE Residence Card Fee (after arrival) | Approx. €16 |
Consulate fees for this category vary by nationality and are not uniformly published. Fees are generally non-refundable, even if the application is refused. Information may vary depending on individual circumstances; confirm the current fee directly with your Spanish consulate.
Spouse Visa Processing Time
Processing time for the Spain Spouse Visa generally follows the broader Family Reunification timeline, typically 4 to 8 months in total: the sponsor’s initial authorisation request in Spain, followed by the spouse’s visa application at the consulate abroad, which usually takes 2 to 3 months. Because eligibility depends on precise proof of the sponsor’s income, housing, and the marital or partnership relationship, incomplete documentation is a common cause of delay. If the sponsor’s own residence permit is nearing expiry, a pending renewal application should be submitted before starting the spouse’s reunification process to avoid denial.
Required Documents Checklist
Document requirements may vary depending on individual circumstances and the consulate processing the application.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Important Notes
Why Choose Shivansh Consultants
The Spain Spouse Visa depends on precise documentation of your marital or partnership relationship, alongside your sponsor’s income and housing evidence. Shivansh Consultants offers documentation support to help you organise marriage certificates, cohabitation evidence, or partnership registration correctly. Our personalised guidance is tailored to your specific relationship type and sponsor’s circumstances. With a transparent process and experienced visa consultants, we provide end-to-end assistance throughout your Spain Visa journey, without ever guaranteeing approval.