Foreigners who have a valid residency permit can bring their family members who live outside the country to join them. Before going to the consulate to apply for a residency permit for family reunification, the foreigner must first ask the Immigration and Borders Service (SEF) to approve bringing their family members. Once approval is granted, the family members mentioned can then apply for their residency visas.
Family Members Explained
Family members of a foreigner living in Portugal include:
- Spouse.
- Minor children, or any dependents of either spouse.
- Minors adopted by an unmarried applicant, the applicant, or the spouse, if recognized by the country of origin and Portugal.
- Non-minor children who are dependent on the couple or one of the spouses, unmarried, and studying in Portugal, if the residency permit was granted under Article 90 A.
- First-degree lineal ascendants who are dependents of the resident or their spouse.
- Minor siblings under the guardianship of the resident, if recognized by the country of origin and Portugal.
Fees
The application fee for the visa is approximately €90, with additional costs associated with residence permit registration and document legalization if necessary.
Rights and Benefits
Once granted a family reunification visa:
- Family members can reside in Portugal for as long as the resident holds their permit.
- They have access to work and study opportunities.
- After five years of continuous residence, they may apply for permanent residency; after six years, they can apply for citizenship, provided they meet language and legal requirements.
Recent Improvements
Portugal has recently made improvements to expedite family reunification processes by increasing appointment slots and prioritizing these applications over others. Parents with children aged 0-18 can now register online more easily than before.
This structured approach ensures that families can reunite effectively while maintaining compliance with Portuguese immigration laws.
General Requirements
- Completed Application Form: A national visa application form filled out and signed by the applicant.
- Passport: A valid passport with at least two blank pages and valid for three months beyond the intended stay.
- Passport-Sized Photographs: Two recent photos that meet specific requirements (one attached to the application form).
- Travel Medical Insurance: Proof of insurance covering medical expenses, including urgent care and repatriation.
- Criminal Record Certificate: Issued by the relevant authority in the applicant’s country of nationality or residence for over a year (not required for children under 16).
- Proof of Financial Means: Documentation showing sufficient financial resources to support oneself during the stay in Portugal.
- Proof of Accommodation: Evidence of where the applicant will reside in Portugal (e.g., rental agreement).
- Return Ticket: A copy of the return ticket or proof of onward travel.
Additional Documents for Specific Cases
For Family Reunification:
- Certificate proving the family relationship (e.g., marriage or birth certificates).
- Evidence that the family member in Portugal has a valid residence permit allowing family reunification.
For Students:
- Acceptance letter from a recognized educational institution in Portugal.
- Proof of enrollment and payment of tuition fees.
For Employment:
- Employment contract or job offer letter from a Portuguese employer.
- Proof of qualifications relevant to the job (diplomas, certificates).
For Minors:
Travel authorization from parents if traveling alone or with one parent.
These documents must be submitted during the appointment at SEF, and it’s crucial to ensure all documents are complete and correctly formatted to avoid delays or rejections in the visa application process
How Law and Visas Can Help?
At Law and Visas, our team of expert immigration consultants is here to make your travel to Portugal straightforward and successful. Whether you’re applying for a Long-Stay Visa or a Schengen Visa, we handle every step—from preparing your application to gathering the required documents.
Our Immigration Consultants and Lawyers ensure that your application meets the highest standards, with no details missed. We’ll also keep you informed throughout the process and coordinate with the immigration office or embassy on your behalf.
Law and Visas have a strong record of helping clients secure the visas/permits they need to visit Portugal. You can call us today at +234 812 5505 986 to learn how we can help you.
