Residence rights for non EU Family members to live and work in Spain: Tarjeta de familiar de ciudadano de la Unión.
The European Union protects the rights of it's nationals' family so they can stay together, while living and working in Spain. If you are from a country outside of the European Union such as the United States, the UK, Canada or anywhere else, you may be eligible to apply for the tarjeta de familiar de ciudadano de la Unión, or better known as Tarjeta Comunitaria.
What is the Tarjeta Comunitaria?
The tarjeta comunitaria is a residence and work authorisation designed for family members of any national of one of the 27 EU countries living in Spain.
In addition, Switzerland, Iceland, Norway and Liechtenstein are also included under an agreement with the Swiss Confederation and an agreement between the European Economic Area.
Who can apply?
Family members of an EU citizen which include spouse, civil union partner (known as pareja de hecho), children of either the EU national or their partner, direct descendent, any family member who is dependant on the EU citizen or a couple in a stable relationship.
Residence authorisation validity
This residence authorisation grants the applicant five (5) years to be able to live and work freely. After the five (5) years are up, if the applicant has continuously lived in Spain during this time, they can apply for their permanent residency.
Which documents are required?
Complete and valid passport of the family member
The EU national's registration certificate, known as the Green NIE/Green card (officially Certificado de registro de ciudadano de la Unión)
The EU national's passport or ID card
Documents which accredit the livelihood of the EU national. These vary depending on their personal situation; employed, self-employed, studying or none of those mentioned, but have enough economic resources and health insurance.
The proof of payment of the Tasa 079 012
Document which accredits the relationship / family ties with the EU national, which can be justification of having lived together for a year, a child in common's birth certificate, a family member who is dependant’s medical certificate, etc.
Three color passport size photographs with a white background of the family member
How long does the process take?
The authorities need to reply to the request within a maximum of three (3) months, however while it is in process, you can stay in Spain until it is resolved.
Nieto Jones can help you!
The Spanish administration and its bureaucracy are often complicated and there are many hoops to jump through. We make sure to prepare all of the documentation, and posible documentation, beforehand to be able to quickly respond to any additional requests from the administration, which may arise.
Contact us by email contact@nietojones.com to enquire about a consultation and we will be happy to review your situation to see if you meet the required criteria.
