Temporary Residency for Spanish Family Members 2025: Everything You Need to Know
The new Reglamento de Extranjería 2025 brings important changes to the way in which family members of Spanish citizens can apply for temporary residence in Spain. This new permit, which replaces the current arraigo familiar, is designed to provide greater legal certainty and facilitate the process for family members of Spanish nationals.
This regulatory change, which is based on articles 93 to 98 of the new Regulation, simplifies family reunification, especially for ascendants over 80 years old or people with chronic diseases. Here we explain everything you need to know about this permit, the requirements and why the legal advice of Molinares Abogados can make the difference in your application.
What is temporary residence for Spanish family members?
Article 93 establishes that direct relatives of a Spanish citizen may opt for temporary residence with the right to family reunification from abroad. The main beneficiaries are:
- Spouses or registered domestic partners.
- Minor children.
- Dependent ascendants of the Spanish citizen.
This permit is a more solid option than family roots, as it allows reunification from the country of origin, does not require such a strict demonstration of dependency and ensures greater legal protection.
Article 196: What is meant by a foreign dependant?
Article 196 of the new Alien Regulations introduces the concept of "foreign dependent person", which applies mainly to ascendants of Spanish citizens. In order for a foreigner to be considered a "dependent", these requirements must be met:
- Real and stable economic dependenceThe Spanish citizen must demonstrate that he/she covers the basic needs of the family member (food, housing, medical care, etc.).
- Duration of financial assistanceAid must have been continuous for at least 12 months prior to application.
- Vulnerable situationThe regulations contemplate humanitarian situations, such as serious illness or lack of financial resources.
This new approach improves the protection of family members of Spanish citizens, especially in cases of vulnerability.
Automatic presumption of dependency: Key benefits
The regulation establishes the automatic presumption of dependency in certain cases, which means that it will not be necessary to prove economic dependency. These are the main assumptions:
- Ascendants over 80 years of age.
- People with chronic diseases or pluripathologies.
- When the Spanish citizen has an officially recognized dependency.
This benefit is an important advantage over family roots, as it facilitates the process for many family members, especially parents and grandparents over 80 years of age.
Differences between temporary residence and family roots
| Appearance | Temporary Residence 2025 | Family Roots |
| Validity | Permanent or renewable | Temporary nature |
| Family reunification | From abroad | Not allowed |
| Presumption of dependence | Over 80 years old | Not applicable |
| Documentation | Fewer requirements | Demonstration of dependence |
With this new permit, the rigidity of family roots is eliminated, allowing a more stable process with fewer requirements, especially for ascendants over 80 years of age or people with chronic illnesses.
Advantages of the new Alien Regulation 2025
- Greater legal certaintyThis new permit is based on clear and stable regulations.
- Family reunification facilityNow it can be done from the country of origin.
- Automatic presumption of dependencyFacilitates the procedures for people over 80 years of age or people with chronic illnesses.
Simplification of proceduresLess requirements for proof of economic dependence.
Why rely on the support of an immigration lawyer?
Immigration procedures can be complex, and any mistake can lead to delays or denials. Molinares Abogados offers you:
- Free web consultation to solve your first doubts.
- Personalized advice tailored to each case.
- Accompaniment throughout the whole process residency application process.
Don't leave your future in the hands of uncertainty. Schedule your appointment today with the experts at Molinares Abogados and ensure the success of your application.


