Advocacia Portugal | Imigração

Dia: 12 de Junho, 2025

  • Suspension of Family Reunification in Portugal: What Immigrants Need to Know

    Suspension of Family Reunification in Portugal: What Immigrants Need to Know

    The suspension of family reunification in Portugal is causing growing concern among immigrants who reside legally in the country. Many are waiting to bring close family members—such as children, spouses, or dependent parents—through the legal family reunification process.

    Now, a new political proposal may temporarily halt this right, leaving many families in uncertainty.

    Why is the suspension of family reunification in Portugal being discussed?

    On June 9, 2025, the Chega political party announced plans to submit a proposal to the government calling for the temporary suspension of family reunification.

    The party argues that the country must resolve its current immigration backlog—especially the large number of pending regularization cases—before accepting new family reunification requests.

    According to the proposal, continuing to approve reunification requests could strain public services and challenge integration efforts.

    Who is affected by the suspension of family reunification in Portugal?

    If implemented, the suspension of family reunification in Portugal could affect:

    • Parents wishing to bring minor children;

    • Immigrants seeking to reunite with their spouses or partners;

    • People responsible for dependent ascendants such as elderly parents or grandparents.

    Even residents with a valid Portuguese residence permit may be temporarily prevented from submitting new applications during the suspension period.

    What are authorities saying?

    The Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum (AIMA) acknowledged that the number of foreign residents will likely increase due to reunification applications.

    The Portuguese government stated that such requests will be assessed based on the country’s capacity to integrate newcomers, which may lead to restrictions—even without a formal suspension in place.

    How to prepare for the suspension of family reunification in Portugal

    Given the possibility of the suspension of family reunification, it is essential for immigrants to act proactively:

    • Stay informed on legal developments;

    • Prepare documentation and submit applications as soon as possible;

    • Consult with an experienced immigration lawyer to evaluate your case and ensure compliance with all requirements.

    Proper legal guidance can help you confirm eligibility, understand the process, and navigate potential delays or refusals.

    Final Thoughts

    The proposed suspension of family reunification is not yet in effect, but it may influence immigration policies and decisions in the near future.

    If you’re planning to bring your children, spouse, or dependent parents to live with you in Portugal, now is the time to gather reliable information and prepare your application with professional support.

    📞 Have questions about family reunification?

    Contact our legal consultancy for expert advice tailored to your situation.

    —

    Adriano Martins Pinheiro, Lawyer in Portugal

  • Family Reunification in Portugal: how it works

    Family Reunification in Portugal: how it works

    Family Reunification in Portugal: how it works

    Family Reunification in Portugal is a legal right that allows foreign nationals legally residing in the country to request the reunification of close family members. The goal is to preserve family unity, promote integration, and ensure dignified cohabitation between parents, children, and spouses.

    Who can be reunited?

    In Portugal, Family Reunification may be requested for various family members, provided that the foreign resident meets the legal requirements. The most common cases include:

    ✅ Spouses: A valid and legally recognized marriage is required, along with proof of shared life.

    ✅ Minor children under 18: Children of the resident and/or their spouse may be reunited, provided they are financially dependent and unmarried.

    It is also possible to request family reunification for:

    ✅ Adult children, if they are financially dependent or face health-related issues;

    ✅ Ascendants (such as parents or grandparents), when they depend on the resident and lack support in their country of origin;

    ✅ Other specific cases, which may be assessed individually.

    General requirements for the application

    To request Family Reunification, the applicant must submit the appropriate documents and meet several essential conditions, including:

    • A valid residence permit in Portugal;

    • Proof of the family relationship (e.g., marriage or birth certificate, guardianship);

    • Adequate housing that suits the size of the family;

    • Sufficient financial resources to support the family members without relying on public aid.

    In addition, the process may require proof of legal entry into Portuguese territory, a clean criminal record, and other specific documents.

    Key principles of family reunification in Portugal

    The entire Family Reunification process must comply with core legal principles, such as:

    • Family unity;

    • Best interests of the child;

    • Proportionality, especially when evaluating grounds for refusal.

    Conclusion

    Family Reunification in Portugal is a valuable opportunity for keeping families together and fostering the stability of immigrants living in the country. However, it is a process that demands careful attention to legal details, deadlines, and documentation.

    Each situation is unique. To ensure a successful application, the best course of action is to seek specialized legal advice tailored to your case.

    Adriano Martins Pinheiro, Lawyer in Portugal