Why applications get refused
Family applications fail when the relationship is not properly documented: marriage certificates without apostille, unregistered partnerships without proof of cohabitation, or birth certificates that do not show both parents. Children travelling with only one parent may also need the other parent's consent.
Who can come with you
Spouse or partner
Your spouse, or your partner in a relationship analogous to marriage. Unmarried partners must prove the relationship, ideally with a registered partnership certificate or evidence of cohabitation.
Children
Minor children, and adult children who depend on you financially and have not formed their own family unit.
Dependent parents
Your parents if they are financially dependent on you.
Income for the family
The household must meet the financial threshold: 200% of the monthly minimum wage for you, 75% for the first family member and 25% for each additional one. See income requirement.
Documents for family members
- Passports of each family member.
- Marriage certificate or proof of partnership, apostilled and translated.
- Birth certificates of the children, apostilled and translated.
- Proof of dependency for adult children and parents.
- Criminal record certificates for adult family members.
- Health insurance covering each person.
Applying together or later
Family members can apply at the same time as you, which means a joint decision, or later, once you hold your permit. They can apply through the consulate or, if they are in Spain legally, directly in Spain. See apply from abroad and apply from inside Spain.
Schools and daily life
Children resident in Spain can attend public or private schools. Places like Palma, Madrid, Barcelona and Marbella have many international schools.
A practical example
A British-Indian family moved to Mallorca with the father's remote job for a London company. Their marriage certificate had been issued in India, so we arranged legalisation and translation, documented the two children's birth certificates and filed all four applications together from Palma. The permits were granted in a single decision. See digital nomad visa in Mallorca. More information on the firm's main website: immigration law at Castell Abogados (in Spanish).
Get your file checked before you apply
Most refusals come from documents that do not prove what the law asks for. Send us your situation and an immigration lawyer will tell you what is missing before you submit.
Questions about family members
Can my partner come with me on the digital nomad visa?
Yes. Your spouse or partner in a relationship analogous to marriage can apply with you or later.
Can my children come?
Yes, minor children and adult children who depend on you financially.
How much more income do I need for my family?
75% of the minimum wage for the first family member and 25% for each additional one.
Do we have to apply at the same time?
No. Family members can apply together with you or afterwards.