Where clients get caught out
Most refusals are not about the marriage, but about the EU citizen's own requirements: a contract with very few hours, income that is poorly documented or health insurance that does not cover everything. Reviewing the EU citizen's situation first saves months.
Who can apply for the EU family card
| Relationship | Conditions |
|---|---|
| Spouse | Valid marriage, not separated |
| Registered partner | Registration in a public registry of an EU or EEA state, still in force |
| Stable partner | Durable relationship duly proved, where registration is not possible |
| Children | Under 21 or dependent |
| Parents | Dependent on the EU citizen or spouse |
What the EU citizen must prove
The EU citizen needs the registration certificate and must be a worker or self-employed in Spain, have sufficient resources and full health insurance for the family, or be a student with insurance and resources. This is where most files fail, so we review it first. See the EU family card explained.
Registered partners in Mallorca
Many couples in Mallorca cannot register in the Balearic registry of stable couples because neither has Balearic civil status. There are alternatives, such as a registry in another country or proof of a stable relationship. See registered partnerships and our guide for non-EU spouses.
Permanent residence after five years
After five years of continuous legal residence you can obtain the permanent card, without having to prove the EU citizen's requirements again.
Example: the EU family residence card in Mallorca
Based on situations we commonly see; not a specific client. A German retiree in Pollença and her Moroccan husband applied for his card with her pension statements but without full health insurance for both. We arranged a policy covering all risks, completed the file and the card was granted.
Our collaborators for the EU family residence card in Mallorca
For every service we work with trusted collaborators when a matter needs them: notaries, architects and surveyors, tax advisers at Castell.tax, sworn translators, banks and mortgage brokers, property managers and specialist lawyers in other parts of Spain. You keep one lawyer as your single point of contact, and we coordinate everyone else.
Castell.law is the English and German-speaking practice of Castell Abogados, a law firm in Palma de Mallorca. This page is general information, not advice on a specific case: laws and procedures change, so check your situation with us before acting.
Not sure where you stand? Ask before you sign
Tell us about your matter or send us the documents you have. A lawyer will explain the risks, the options and the cost before you commit to anything.
Questions about the EU family residence card in Mallorca
How long is the EU family card valid?
Five years, and it allows you to work.
Can I apply if my partner is Spanish?
No, since May 2025 family of Spaniards follow their own route.
What if we are not married?
A registered partnership or a duly proved stable relationship can qualify.
Can I apply from Mallorca?
Yes, at the immigration office, within three months of arrival.