Family Reunification is a right granted to citizens and legal residents in Portugal, allowing their direct family members to join them. This process may vary according to current legislation and can be requested by those who already have legal residency in the country.
Who Can Apply?
All foreign citizens who are not nationals of EU Member States, the European Economic Area, or Switzerland and who hold a valid residence permit in Portugal.
Where and When to Apply?
The request must be made to AIMA, in addition, for those who are not in Portugal, it must be made at Portuguese consular posts or the VFS with jurisdiction in the applicant's country of residence.
Required Documentation
Personal Documentation:
- Completed family reunification application form;
- The passport must be valid for more than three months after the planned return date;
- Two recent passport-sized photos;
- Valid travel insurance covering medical expenses, including urgent care and possible repatriation in case of death;
- Criminal record certificate from the country of origin or residence for over one year;
- Request for consultation of the Portuguese criminal record by AIMA;
- Proof of accommodation;
- Proof of means of subsistence.
Specific Documentation for Family Reunification
For family members inside or outside the national territory, the following documents are required:
- Authenticated marriage certificate; or
- Medical report certifying disability, or judicial declaration of interdiction/inability, duly authenticated; or
- Decision that granted adoption, duly authenticated; or
- Authenticated birth certificate, and in the case of dependent adult children, a document proving economic dependence and enrollment in an educational institution in Portugal;
- Written authorization from the non-resident parent, authenticated by the Portuguese consular authority, or a copy of the decision granting legal custody of the minor child or guardianship of the incapacitated individual to the resident or their spouse, as stated in the declaration; or
- Proof of economic dependence and family relationships, such as money transfers to the country of origin; or
- Decision granting guardianship, accompanied by a certificate of the national authority’s decision that recognized it, duly authenticated; or
- Presentation of documents proving the existence of a de facto union for more than two years.
Notes
The following family members of the resident have the right to Family Reunification (cf. Articles 99 and 100 of the Foreigners Law):
- The spouse;
- Minor or incapacitated children dependent on the couple or one of the spouses;
- Minors adopted by the applicant when unmarried, by the applicant, or by the spouse;
- Single adult children who are dependent and studying in Portugal;
- Direct ascendants in the first degree of the resident or their spouse, provided they are dependent;
- Minor siblings under the resident’s guardianship.
Family reunification may be granted to partners in a duly proven de facto union and their single minor or incapacitated children.
Tips for a Smooth Process
- Plan ahead
- Keep all documents organized
- Seek professional guidance
- Be aware of residence conditions
Reuniting the family in a new country can be a bureaucratic process, but it is an important right for those who wish to build a life alongside their loved ones. With planning and organization, family reunification can be a rewarding and transformative experience.
If you have any questions, please contact us for more information!