Has family reunification changed?
With the recent changes to Portugal’s Immigration Law, family reunification is one of the residence permit categories that has undergone the most significant alterations. Find out what has changed and what is in effect in 2026.
What is family reunification?
Family reunification is a type of residence permit for relatives of foreign nationals residing in Portugal who are outside the national territory; or for relatives of holders of a valid residence permit for at least 2 years, who have legally entered Portugal, provided they have cohabited with or depend on the resident. This period is now reduced to 15 months for spouses or partners who have lived with the legal resident in Portugal for at least 18 months before entering the country.
The 2-year period does not apply when the resident’s family member is a minor or dependent; a spouse or equivalent who is the parent or adoptive parent of the minor or dependent together with the holder; or family members of holders of residence permits obtained by highly qualified workers or golden visa holders.
What is the procedure?
There are two types of family reunification, each with its own procedure:
1. When the family member is outside Portugal
This process involves 3 steps:
- The residence permit holder requests an appointment with AIMA at the Portuguese consulate in the country of origin or residence;
- Once approved, the family members go to the Portuguese consulate to obtain the residence visa;
- After the visa is issued and the family member is in Portugal, they go to AIMA for biometric data collection.
This option is more time-consuming and complex, as it requires documentation at each stage.
2. When the family member has legally entered Portugal
In this case, the process consists of a single step:
- The residence permit is requested directly at AIMA by appointment, during which all documentation is submitted and biometric data collected.
This option currently applies only to minors or dependents; a parent or adoptive parent of the minor or dependent together with the holder; and family members of holders of residence permits for highly qualified professionals and investors.
What are the requirements for family reunification?
In order to apply for a residence permit for their family members, applicants must have:
- Accommodation, owned or rented, suitable for the family;
- Sufficient means of subsistence to support the family without social assistance.
Family members must have knowledge of the Portuguese language, culture, and constitutional values, and minors must attend compulsory schooling.
Additionally, the applicant must hold a valid residence title in Portugal at the time of the request and provide proof of family ties.
Decision timeframe on issuance of residence permit
The decision on issuing this residence permit takes up to 9 months, which may be extended in complex cases.
How long is the residence card for reunited family members valid for?
Family members’ residence cards are valid for 2 years and can be renewed for an additional 3 years. They are also entitled to permanent residence permits valid for 5 years.
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We are a law firm specialized in immigration, with one of the best immigration lawyers in the world. If you are considering bringing your family to Portugal, contact us to learn about the requirements and start the process with confidence.