Spain’s SEM 2/2025 instruction, which has been in force since May 20, 2025, establishes a self-contained residence framework for family members of Spanish citizens. It clarifies the scope, ownership of the process, and coordination under the new Immigration Regulation (RD 1155/2024). This represents a significant change from a patchwork of criteria to a unified national standard, directly impacting the planning of mixed-nationality households relocating to Spain.

The opportunity is real, but so are the guardrails. Outcomes depend on evidence of relationships, jurisdiction strategy, and sequencing (Spain vs. consulate), as well as clean alignment with social security and tax.