MigraVisas AUSTRALIA

Partner or family with an EU passport

Family of EU Citizens: Live in Spain Together

Is your partner or parent Irish, Italian, Greek or from another EU country? If they live in Spain, you can join them with a 5-year EU family residence card and the right to work.

Ask about your situation
Card length
5 years
Then permanent residence
Work rights
From day one
Employed or self-employed
Who's included
Partners, kids, parents
Children under 21 or dependent; dependent parents
Apply
In Spain
Within 3 months of arriving

Requirements: who qualifies

  • Your partner, parent or child is a citizen of an EU country other than Spain (or of Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein or Switzerland).
  • They live in Spain and are working, self-employed, studying, or have enough money and health insurance to support the family.
  • Spouses and registered partners qualify; unregistered partners may qualify with proof of a stable relationship.
  • Children under 21 (or older if dependent) and dependent parents can also qualify.
  • You register on the padrón and apply in Spain within 3 months of arriving.
  • Partner holds a Spanish passport? The rules are different since 2025 — see Family of Spanish Nationals.

How the process works

  1. 1 A 15-minute chat We check you qualify and what relationship evidence you need.
  2. 2 Your checklist Australian certificates, apostilles and translations, ready before you fly.
  3. 3 Padrón & application Register locally and lodge your card application in Spain.
  4. 4 Fingerprints & card Book your appointment and collect your residence card.

Frequently asked questions

My partner has an Irish or Italian passport. Can I live in Spain with them?

Yes. As the partner of an EU citizen living in Spain, you can apply for a 5-year EU family residence card with the right to work.

We're de facto, not married. Does that count?

Often yes. Registered partnerships qualify, and unregistered partners can qualify with proof of a stable relationship, such as a relationship certificate or evidence of living together.

Do I need a visa before I fly?

Australians can usually enter Spain visa-free and apply once there, within 3 months of arriving.

What if my partner is Spanish?

Since May 2025, family of Spanish citizens have their own residence permit with different rules. See our Family of Spanish Nationals guide.

Questions about EU family residence?

A relaxed 15-minute chat in Australian hours to get to know you and understand your plans and ideas. No pressure, no obligation.

Book a chat

Last reviewed November 2026 by Bo Saldana, Gestor Administrativo Colegiado (licensed Spanish immigration adviser).