Spain’s General Directorate for Migration has issued a much-anticipated clarification that significantly eases the process for international families: marriages celebrated abroad no longer need to be registered in the Spanish Civil Registry to be recognised for immigration procedures.
What has changed?
Until now, many immigration offices in Spain required the foreign marriage to be registered with the Spanish Civil Registry in order to be considered valid. This practice caused delays, legal uncertainty, and extra administrative burdens for many applicants and their families.
The new guidance makes it clear:
The registration is not a legal requirement — it is declarative, not constitutive.
This means it is not the only way to prove a marital relationship.
What documents are now accepted?
Applicants may now prove their marriage with a foreign marriage certificate, provided it complies with the following:
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Issued by the competent authority in the country of marriage
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Official translation, if the document is not in Spanish
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Legalisation or Apostille, unless exempted by an international agreement
Importantly, the certificate does not need to be recently issued, unless there is reasonable doubt that the relationship no longer exists.
Which immigration procedures does this affect?
This change positively impacts several key residence and visa processes in Spain, including:
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EU citizen family member residence permits
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Family reunification
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Arraigo residence procedures
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Residency applications under the Entrepreneurs Law
Why is this important?
This clarification represents a step forward in terms of:
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Legal certainty for applicants and their families
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Equal treatment of valid foreign marriages
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Administrative efficiency, helping reduce unnecessary delays and bureaucracy
At Svelsan International Lawyers, we welcome this decision and remain committed to helping international clients navigate Spain’s immigration system with clarity and confidence.
Need advice on your specific situation?
Our team is ready to assist — whether you’re applying for residency, reuniting with family, or starting a new life in Spain.
