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:
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A valid residence permit in Portugal;
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Proof of the family relationship (e.g., marriage or birth certificate, guardianship);
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Adequate housing that suits the size of the family;
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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:
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Family unity;
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Best interests of the child;
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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.
