Bring your children and parents
to live with you
There is nothing more important than family unity. We explain the new deadlines, requirements and advantages of the 2026 Regulation to reunite your family.
Family unity: absolute priority in 2026
With the entry into force of the new Royal Decree 1155/2024 and the Extraordinary Regularization of 2026, the landscape for bringing your loved ones has changed radically.
Depending on whether you are Spanish or a legal resident, the age requirements and financial means vary. Here is everything you need to know.
Guide Index
1. How to bring your children in 2026?
If you are Spanish
Family Member of a Spaniard Regime (the most beneficial). Up to 26 years old directly.
- Direct children or from your partner
- Over 26 if they are 'dependent'
- Free 5-year card
- Automatic right to work
If you are a Resident
General Regime (more demanding). Up to 18 years old as a general rule.
- 1 year of previous residence required
- Children >18 only with disability
- 150% IPREM guaranteed
- Requires Adequate Housing
Extraordinary Regularization 2026
If your children are already in Spain without papers before January 1, 2026, they get direct 5-year residence without economic requirements.
2. Bring your parents (ascendants)
The regulations for parents have been made more flexible in the Family Member of a Spaniard Regime, but they remain strict for residents.
Parents of Spaniards
- No age limit (can be under 65).
- Dependent: prove that they depend on your remittances.
- Automatic presumption if they are over 80 years old.
- 5-year card with the right to work.
Parents of Residents
- Must be over 65 years old (unless exception).
- The sponsor must have Long-Term Residence (5 years).
- Demonstrate humanitarian reasons if they are under 65.
Novelties of the 2026 Regulation
The new law has introduced advantages that greatly speed up the processes.
Automatic Work
All cards allow working from the first day without extra paperwork.
Change of Status
If the family member entered as a tourist, they can apply for the card from Spain exceptionally.
Born in Spain
If you are born here to parents with papers, you get automatic 5-year residence.
Economic Flexibility
The money requirement can be lowered by prioritizing the interest of the minor.
Deep Dive: Expert Analysis
How to prove that a child >26 is "dependent"?
The dependency must be real and prior. The **51% GDP Rule** is used: your annual remittances must add up to, at a minimum, 51% of the per capita GDP of their country of origin. In addition, the child must not have formed their own family.
What are "Humanitarian Reasons" in 2026?
It is the legal wildcard for: War conflicts, serious illnesses without treatment in origin, real danger upon returning or need for care for minor children in Spain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you want to reunite your family today?
Our team of expert lawyers will analyze your situation to choose the fastest and safest route. Do not miss out on the benefits of the 2026 law.