Can your family visit you while reunification is pending

Key rules

• Visits: Relatives can visit on a short stay while the file is pending, and a lawful visit does not harm it.
• No switching: A visit cannot be converted into reunification inside Spain; the visa is applied for at the consulate.
• Overstay: Staying past the permitted period can bring a sanction and a ban on later visas.

Can they visit?

Yes. Relatives who do not need a visa, or who hold a short-stay Schengen visa, can visit Spain as tourists while your file is pending. A lawful visit does not harm the application by itself.

If your relative's nationality needs a visa, they must get a Schengen visa first.

What a visit cannot do

A visit cannot turn into reunification inside Spain. A short stay or visa-free entry gives no right to switch to a reunification permit once they are here. You, as the sponsor, apply for reunification. Your relative then gets the reunification visa at the Spanish consulate in their country of residence.

Do not overstay

Your relative must leave Spain before the permitted stay ends: a visa-free visitor or Schengen visa holder can stay up to 90 days in any 180 days. Staying longer can lead to a sanction and a ban that affects later visas, including the reunification visa. Agree the return date with them before they travel, and keep proof of the return trip.

The invitation letter

Some consulates ask for an invitation letter (carta de invitación) for a short-stay visa. You can request it if you are a resident or a Spanish citizen.

• You request it from the National Police at your local station, by prior appointment.
• Your relative takes the letter to the consulate with their visa application.

The fee is 3.70 EUR, paid by the host on modelo 790 code 012.

Documents you need

• Your passport or NIE/TIE (foreigner identity card), to show you are a resident or Spanish citizen hosting the visit.

• The invitation letter application form, filled in for the police appointment.

• Proof of your address (empadronamiento, the certificate showing you are registered at your home).

• Proof of your income and housing.

• Your guest's passport details and dates of stay.