Family reunification in Portugal in 2025: everything you need to know

Family reunification is a fundamental right that allows foreign citizens legally residing in Portugal to bring their family members to live with them for periods longer than one year. Whether to reunite a family already in the country or to facilitate the arrival of family members from abroad, this process offers security and stability for those who wish to build a life in Portugal with their loved ones. In this article, discover the requirements, procedures, and benefits of family reunification in 2025.

 
The right to family reunification is granted to foreign citizens who legally reside in Portugal and wish to live with their family in the country for a period longer than one year.

By fulfilling certain requirements, the family members of a foreign citizen residing in Portugal can also apply for their residence title for Portugal.

This option arises once the primary resident receives their residence card, and it can unfold in two different ways:

• If the applicant’s family is living in Portugal, the entire process of regularizing their migration status takes place with AIMA,
  • A one-step process, where the family presents all documentation and biometric data collection at AIMA;

• If the applicant’s family is living outside of Portugal, the process is coordinated between AIMA and the Portuguese Consulate with jurisdiction in the home country.
  • In this case, the process consists of three steps, with the first step initiated by the resident in Portugal at AIMA to present all documentation; the second step by the family at the Portuguese consulate in the home country for updated documentation; and the third step by the family at AIMA for updated documentation and biometric data collection.

The family reunification application can also be submitted online for families already in Portugal and who have minors in their household between 0 and 18 years old.

What documents are needed to start the Family Reunification process in Portugal?

Regardless of the chosen residence authorization, it will always be necessary to present:

• Proof of legal residence in Portugal by the main applicant;
• Proof of sufficient means of subsistence;
• Proof of family ties;
• Proof of accommodation.

Frequently Asked Questions

If the family bond is no longer verified or if the main applicant no longer lives in Portugal, is the residence authorization of the family member at risk?

No. After the first residence card is issued to the reunified citizen, their migration process proceeds independently, meaning that even if the family bond is broken, the right to residence in Portugal remains.

If family reunification occurs with the family outside of Portuguese territory, are the documents for the first two phases the same?

There are slight changes, but in general, yes.

Family reunification in Portugal is an essential step to ensure the union and stability of families of foreign citizens residing in the country. With accessible procedures and guaranteed rights, this process offers an opportunity to build a harmonious and integrated life in Portugal. If you are considering bringing your family to join you, get in touch with us for information on the requirements and start the process with confidence.