Introduction
If you are a Pakistani citizen married to a Spanish national or a legal resident in Spain, you may be eligible to apply for a Spain spouse visa. This visa allows you to join your partner in Spain and eventually gain residency. In this guide, we will walk you through the requirements and application process for obtaining a Spain spouse visa.
1. What is a Spain Spouse Visa?
A Spain spouse visa, also known as a family reunification visa, allows non-EU spouses of Spanish citizens or residents to live and work in Spain.
2. Who is Eligible for a Spain Spouse Visa?
- Legally married spouses of Spanish citizens or residents
- Civil union (registered partnership) partners
- Proof of a genuine relationship if not married
3. Documents Required for Spain Spouse Visa
- Valid passport
- Marriage certificate (translated and legalized)
- Proof of relationship (photos, messages, joint accounts, etc.)
- Spanish spouse’s passport or residence card
- Proof of sufficient financial means
- Health insurance coverage
- Police clearance certificate from Pakistan
4. Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Gather Necessary Documents
Ensure all documents are translated into Spanish and legalized.
Step 2: Apply at the Spanish Consulate in Pakistan
Submit your visa application along with supporting documents at the Spanish consulate.
Step 3: Attend the Visa Interview
You and your spouse may be required to attend an interview to verify your relationship.
Step 4: Wait for Visa Approval
Processing times vary but typically take 2-3 months.
Step 5: Travel to Spain
Once approved, you can travel to Spain and apply for a residence permit (TIE).
5. Spain Spouse Visa Processing Time
- Average processing time: 2-3 months
- Residence permit issuance: 1-2 months
6. Rights of Spouse Visa Holders in Spain
- Right to live and work in Spain
- Access to healthcare and social benefits
- Pathway to permanent residency and Spanish citizenship
7. Common Reasons for Visa Rejection
- Insufficient proof of relationship
- Financial instability
- Incomplete documentation
8. How to Appeal a Rejected Application
- Review the rejection reasons
- Provide additional supporting evidence
- Reapply or file an appeal within 30 days
9. Can You Apply for Spanish Citizenship?
Yes, after one year of marriage and residency in Spain, you can apply for Spanish citizenship.
10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I work in Spain with a spouse visa?
Yes, spouse visa holders can live and work in Spain without restrictions.
2. Do I need to learn Spanish to get the visa?
Spanish proficiency is not required for the visa but may be needed for citizenship.
3. Can I bring my children with me?
Yes, dependent children can be included in the family reunification process.
4. Is the Spain spouse visa renewable?
Yes, it is initially valid for one year and can be renewed.
5. What if my marriage ends?
If you divorce, you may need to apply for a different residence permit to stay in Spain.
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