994235 — Residence Card for Family Member of EU Citizen (Tarjeta de Residencia de Familiar de Ciudadano de la Unión)

Residency Pathway PR PathwayThis visa can lead to permanent residency, the right to live and work here indefinitely without renewing your visa.

At a Glance

Processing Time

Up to 3 months

Estimated Cost

EUR €12

Stay Duration

5 years

Not renewable

Renewal

Not renewable

Family

Not specified

PR Pathway

Yes

Sponsor

No job offer needed

Work

Remote not required

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Living in Spain

Cost of Living

26% cheaper than United States

Avg Salary€22,000

Quality of Life

183/200

Full Country Guide

Overview

Five-year residence card for non-EU spouses, registered partners, and dependent children or parents of EU/EEA/Swiss citizens living in Spain, granting unrestricted work rights.

Spain's Tarjeta de Residencia de Familiar de Ciudadano de la Unión is a 5-year residence card for non-EU nationals who are a spouse, registered partner, or dependent child or parent of an EU/EEA/Swiss citizen in Spain. Granted under Directive 2004/38/EC — no job offer, salary test, or labor market check.

The card costs €12, is processed within 3 months, and grants unrestricted work rights in any sector. After 5 continuous years the holder can apply for permanent residency (Tarjeta permanente). It is valid only within Spain and lapses if the sponsor leaves or the qualifying relationship ends.

This visa is ideal for non-EU spouses, partners, and dependents of EU citizens already living in Spain who want a simple, low-cost residence permit with full work rights.

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Requirements

PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS

Valid passport of the applicant

Proof of family relationship (e.g., marriage or birth certificate)

Proof of EU citizen's residence or registration in Spain

Proof of sufficient financial means or employment of the EU citizen

KEY CRITERIA

Min. Income

8,803 EUR/yr

Advantages & Considerations

Key Benefits

Grants full rights to work as an employee or self-employed
Provides access to public services and healthcare under the same conditions as Spanish citizens
Allows for permanent residency application after 5 years of continuous residence

Worth Knowing

The right of residence is dependent on the continued relationship and residence of the EU citizen in Spain
Absences from Spain exceeding 6 months can lead to the loss of the residence card
The card is only valid for residence and work within Spain, not other EU countries