In short: family of EU/EEA/Swiss citizens fall under the EU regime (RD 240/2007) and get the EU family member residence card, on more favourable terms than the general regime; it is issued within 3 months.
In person or by representative? The source does not detail this: part of the process may allow a representative or online filing, but the family member's fingerprinting and card collection are in person. By default, prepare for personal appearance and check with your Oficina de Extranjería.
Family members included:
- Spouse (as long as there is no annulment or divorce).
- Registered partner in an EU/EEA public registry (incompatible with marriage).
- Descendants under 21 or dependent.
- Dependent ascendants.
The EU citizen's condition: must have the right to reside for more than three months (be an employed or self-employed worker; or have sufficient means and health insurance; or be a student with resources and insurance).
Documents: proof of the family relationship (apostilled/legalised and translated) and a valid passport. The card is issued within 3 months and is usually valid for 5 years.
Family of Spanish nationals: have their own route (residence of relatives of Spanish nationals, Instruction SEM 2/2025), distinct from general-regime reunification.
Official source: RD 240/2007 (entry, movement and residence of EU citizens).
Informational only; exact requirements and documents vary — check the official source and a professional for your case.