Who Can Be Included?
Most Spanish long-stay visas (NLV, DNV, student visa) allow the following family members to apply as dependants:
- Spouse or registered civil partner
- Unmarried partner (in some circumstances — evidence of stable relationship typically required)
- Dependent children under 18
- Dependent children aged 18–25 who are in full-time education and financially dependent
- Dependent parents (in some cases, with additional evidence)
Joint vs Separate Applications
For most Spanish long-stay visas, family members apply at the same time as the main applicant in a joint family application. Each family member submits their own application form and documents (passport, photos, criminal record certificate for adults, etc.), but they are assessed together.
Alternatively, family members can apply for family reunification (reagrupación familiar) after the main applicant has established residency in Spain — but this takes longer and involves additional steps.
Financial Requirements for Family
Including family members increases the financial requirement. For the NLV, the main applicant typically needs to show: the base amount (~€2,400/month) plus an additional ~€600/month for each dependant. So a couple needs ~€3,000/month; a family of four needs ~€4,200/month.
Documents Each Family Member Needs
For each adult family member included in the application:
- Valid passport
- Criminal record certificate (apostilled and translated)
- Passport photos
- Evidence of relationship (marriage certificate, civil partnership certificate)
- Health insurance covering them
For dependent children:
- Valid passport
- Birth certificate (apostilled and translated)
- Passport photos
- Evidence of your parental relationship
Unmarried Partners
Unmarried partners may be included in some visa applications, but requirements vary by consulate and visa type. Evidence of a stable, long-term relationship is typically required — such as evidence of cohabitation, joint financial accounts, or official registered partnership status (pareja de hecho). The rules are less clear-cut than for married couples, and it's worth checking with your specific consulate.
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