If you’re living in Portugal and want your family to join you, the Family Reunion Visa (Reagrupamento Familiar) is the official path. This visa allows you to legally bring your spouse, children, parents, or dependents to live with you in Portugal—with access to healthcare, education, and eventually, residency or citizenship.
🇵🇹 What is the Family Reunion Visa?
The Family Reunion Visa is a residence permit issued to close family members of a legal resident or citizen of Portugal. It ensures families can stay together, even when the primary residence holder is in Portugal for work, study, retirement, or business.
🧾 Who Can Apply?
The visa holder in Portugal is the sponsor. The following relatives may apply under family reunification:
✅ Spouse or legal partner
✅ Children under 18 (or dependent students)
✅ Children of the spouse under similar conditions
✅ Dependent parents (of sponsor or spouse)
✅ Minor siblings under legal custody
✅ Adopted children or legal guardianship minors
🏠 Basic Requirements for the Sponsor
To bring your family, the sponsor must:
🔹 Hold a valid residence permit (D7, D2, work, student, etc.)
🔹 Provide suitable housing in Portugal
🔹 Prove stable income or resources to support dependents
🔹 Have clean criminal record (for adults applying)
📌 Note: You can apply for family reunification once you have your residence card—not just the visa.
📂 Required Documents (General)
For each family member, you’ll typically need:
📄 Valid passport
📄 Birth/marriage certificate (apostilled + translated)
📄 Proof of relationship
📄 Criminal record certificate
📄 Sponsor’s residence permit
📄 Proof of housing in Portugal
📄 Proof of income
📄 Passport-size photos
👁️🗨️ Always double-check with the AIMA (formerly SEF) for document updates.
🛂 Application Process Step-by-Step
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1️⃣ | Sponsor gathers required documents in Portugal |
| 2️⃣ | Submit online request to AIMA (reagrupamento portal) |
| 3️⃣ | AIMA reviews and approves the family reunification |
| 4️⃣ | Family members apply for national visas at Portuguese consulate in their country |
| 5️⃣ | Upon arrival in Portugal, attend biometric appointment |
| 6️⃣ | Receive residence cards (valid for 2 years, renewable) |
⏳ Processing Time
🕐 4–12 weeks, depending on AIMA backlog and consular schedules. Early application is recommended.
🧠 FAQs About Family Reunion in Portugal
Can I bring my partner without marriage?
Yes—de facto unions are accepted if legally recognized and documented.
What if I’m a student or temporary worker?
You can apply for family reunification, but income requirements vary. Consult a lawyer for eligibility.
Is the residence permit the same for family members?
Yes—family members receive a residence card tied to the sponsor’s duration. They can work, study, and access healthcare.
Can we apply together from the start?
In some cases (like the D7 visa), you may apply for your family at the same time—called accompanying family. Check the consulate’s rules.
🛡️ Borderless Lawyers Can Help
Our immigration experts simplify the process:
✔️ Verify legal eligibility
✔️ Translate and apostille documents
✔️ Submit your AIMA application
✔️ Guide your family through the consular visa
✔️ Attend biometrics and residence permit support
✔️ Help with renewals, NIFs, and NISS for family
👉 We handle everything from Portugal or remotely.
📌 Summary Table
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligible Family | Spouse, children, parents, legal dependents |
| When to Apply | After sponsor has valid residence permit |
| Validity | Matches sponsor’s residence permit |
| Right to Work | Yes (for adults) |
| School Access | Yes (for children) |
| Citizenship Path | After 5 years of legal residence |