Residence for Unmarried Couples. Comparison between Alicante, Madrid, and Barcelona

You've probably heard that one of the main benefits of registering as an unmarried couple in Spain is the possibility of obtaining residency. In this blog, we'll explain what unmarried partnership entails, whether residency can indeed be obtained through it, and the differences between Spain's major cities.

What is an unmarried partnership?

In Spain, an unmarried partnership is a union between two people who live together stably and durably, without the need for marriage. To register as an unmarried couple, a public and continuous cohabitation for a certain period is generally required, which varies depending on the autonomous community. This union grants certain legal rights, such as inheritance, social security, and tax benefits, although these may vary by region. It's a recognized legal alternative for couples who choose not to marry formally but want legal protection and rights similar to those of marriage.

Is it true that residency in Spain can be obtained through it?

Indeed, an unmarried partnership opens the doors for non-EU citizens to obtain their residence permit as a family member of a European citizen, a residency permit that allows them to live and work in Spain for 5 years.

And that's always provided that the civil union has been registered with a European Union citizen.

Common requirements for applying for residency through an unmarried partnership

These requirements are relatively simple to meet and must be submitted to the nearest immigration office to the applicants' residence. They can be summarized as follows:

• Having sufficient financial means to support the family. Such income can be demonstrated with social security registration (for employees) or bank statements for other cases.
• Submitting supporting and identification documents.
• Submitting the corresponding forms and fees.
• Of course, presenting the Certificate of the establishment of the partnership.

How to apply in Spain's main cities?

• MADRID

1. Where? : At the Unions Registry.
2. Notes : The requirements for couples to register in the Unions Registry have been modified. Since December 23, 2022, appointment applicants must present a joint registration certificate at the same address for a period of 12 months immediately preceding the registration date and have their residence in the Community of Madrid.

• ALICANTE

1. Where? : Registered Formalized Unions Registry of the Valencian Community.
2. Notes : Any public document issued by a foreign country must be previously apostilled by the competent authority of the issuing country or legalized by the Spanish consular office with jurisdiction in the issuing country and by the Ministry responsible for foreign affairs, in accordance with international conventions in force.

• BARCELONA

1. Where? : Registry of Stable Partnerships.
2. Notes : In Catalonia, an unmarried partnership can be established through two years of uninterrupted cohabitation, having a common child, or before a Notary Public.

Common points:

• Certificates will be valid for three months from their issuance date, having to comply with this validity requirement on the date of the appointment request for registration in the Unions Registry.
• The Certificate of marital status must be issued by the country corresponding to the nationality with which you register. It is very important to note that, although the process may be initiated online, the final completion is carried out through the in-person signature of both members of the couple.

If you want to know more about this or need assistance with this procedure, don't hesitate to contact us! We'll be happy to assist you.