Are you a student in Spain and wish to bring your family with you during your academic stay? Spain provides a legal option for the relatives of international students to temporarily reside in the country. This opportunity not only ensures the student`s family unity but also allows them to live together throughout the study program. This article will delve into frequently asked questions, legal requirements, and the process of obtaining residence for relatives of students in Spain. Additionally, we will explain how Gentile Law can assist you in this process.
The study stay authorization is a legal tool regulated under Article 37 of Royal Decree 557/2011. This permit allows foreign nationals to reside in Spain for the purpose of pursuing academic programs at recognized educational institutions. Furthermore, the regulation includes a family reunification option, enabling direct relatives of the student to reside legally in Spain for the duration of the study program.
The primary benefit is that families can remain united, ensuring the student`s emotional stability. This, in turn, fosters better academic performance and facilitates social integration. Upon completing their studies, students can apply for a job-seeking permit or even change their status to a work authorization, opening doors to the Spanish labor market.
Family reunification is a procedure regulated under Article 38 of Royal Decree 557/2011, aimed at ensuring that international students can be accompanied by their relatives during their stay in Spain. This permit applies to the student`s direct relatives, such as:
This type of authorization not only allows relatives to reside in Spain but also guarantees access to essential services such as healthcare and compulsory education for minor children.
To obtain this permit, relatives must meet the following requirements as set forth in Spanish Immigration law:
Relatives granted residence permits are entitled to:
Limitations: Relatives are not permitted to work while their residence is linked to the student`s permit. Should they wish to work, they must apply for a change of residence status through the Immigration Office, providing evidence of a job offer or meeting the legal requirements for the change.
According to the Ministry of the Interior, approximately 15.400 applications for family reunification linked to international students were filed in 2022. Of these, 87% were approved, with most applicants originating from countries such as Morocco, China, Colombia, and Brazil.
The cities with the highest number of applications include Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia, reflecting the concentration of universities and educational institutions in these regions. Additionally, the average resolution time for these applications is three months, provided all documentation is complete and correctly submitted.
At Gentile Law, we are experts in Immigration and Foreign Affairs Law, fully understanding the intricacies of Spain`s immigration system.