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What is a Portugal Family Reunification Visa?
The Portugal family reunification visa, also known as the D6 visa or Portugal family residence permit, enables family members of Portuguese citizens or non-EU legal residents to live in Portugal for more than 90 days. It is issued as a residence permit and can be temporary (1-2 years initially) or renewed for longer periods depending on the sponsor's status.
Under 2025 regulations, applicants must meet specific eligibility, income, and housing requirements. The sponsor must demonstrate income meeting Portugal's minimum wage (currently €820/month in 2025), with additional requirements for dependents. The visa process begins at Portuguese consulates and is completed upon arrival in Portugal with AIMA (formerly SEF).
Benefits of a Portugal Family Reunification Visa
Obtaining a family reunification visa in Portugal offers significant advantages for both the applicant and the sponsor. It ensures legal residency, access to public services, and opportunities for integration into Portuguese society. Family members can live together safely while enjoying Portugal's excellent healthcare, education system, and employment rights. This visa also provides a pathway to long-term residency and Portuguese citizenship.
For Individuals
Obtaining a family reunification visa in Portugal allows individuals to live with their close family members in a stable and supportive environment. Beyond uniting families, it grants access to Portugal's excellent healthcare system, education, and social services. Visa holders can pursue employment or study opportunities, integrating fully into Portuguese society while building a secure foundation for the future.
- Family Unity: Live with spouses, children, or parents in Portugal's welcoming environment.
- Work and Study Rights: Spouses and dependents can work or study without extra permits from day one.
- Pathway to Permanent Residency: Eligible for permanent residency after 5 years of legal residence in Portugal.
- Portuguese Citizenship: Apply for Portuguese citizenship after five years, with Portuguese language test requirement.
- EU Mobility: Enjoy residency benefits in Portugal, with potential mobility to other EU countries after obtaining permanent residency.
- Quality of Life: Access Portugal's affordable cost of living, excellent climate, and high-quality healthcare system.
For Sponsors
Sponsors benefit by securing legal residency for their family members, ensuring compliance with Portuguese immigration regulations. This visa provides peace of mind, allowing sponsors to maintain family cohesion while working or studying in Portugal. It also enables long-term planning, as dependents can remain in Portugal lawfully and eventually gain permanent residency or citizenship.
- Support Loved Ones: Legally bring family to Portugal to share life and work opportunities.
- Compliance Assurance: Meet Portuguese immigration laws via AIMA and Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
- Stability for Family: Ensure dependents' legal status for long-term integration in Portugal.
- Affordable Process: Portugal offers one of Europe's most cost-effective family reunification programs.
Eligibility for a Portugal Family Reunification Visa
Eligibility ensures that both the sponsor and family members meet financial, residential, and legal criteria. Portugal requires that sponsors demonstrate stable income, adequate housing, and legal residency status. Eligible family members include spouses, children, and in certain cases, parents or other dependents. Applicants must also meet health and criminal record requirements. Fulfilling these eligibility criteria is essential for a successful D6 visa application.
Sponsor Requirements
- Legal resident in Portugal (non-EU with valid residence permit for ≥1 year) or Portuguese citizen.
- Financial stability: Income must meet or exceed Portuguese minimum wage of €820 per month, with additional 50% to support additional adult family members.
- Adequate housing per Portuguese standards with sufficient space for family members.
- Valid residence permit or Portuguese citizenship documentation.
Eligible Family Members
- Spouse or registered partner (same-sex partnerships recognized).
- Children under 18 years of age.
- Dependent children who are of age and enrolled in established educational institutions in Portugal.
- First-degree relatives who are dependent on the sponsor (parents, under specific circumstances).
Additional Requirements
- Non-EU/EEA/Swiss family members require this visa for legal residency.
- Clean criminal record for the past 5 years, legalized and translated into Portuguese.
- Health insurance covering minimum €30,000 in Portugal or access to Portuguese healthcare system.
- Passport with minimum validity of 6 months.
Portugal Family Reunification Visa Requirements / Document Checklist
Before applying for a Portugal family reunification visa, it is essential to prepare all required documents carefully. Missing or incorrect documentation is a common reason for visa delays or rejections. The following checklist summarizes the key documents you need to submit for both the D6 visa application and the subsequent residence permit application in Portugal:
Portugal Family Reunification Visa Application Process
Applying for a family reunification visa involves several key steps to ensure compliance with Portuguese immigration rules. The process starts with confirming eligibility and gathering required documentation. Applications are submitted at Portuguese consulates or visa centers abroad. Upon arrival in Portugal, family members must apply for a residence permit with AIMA and register locally. Following each step carefully improves the likelihood of approval.
- Confirm Sponsor Eligibility: Ensure sponsor has valid Portuguese residence or citizenship with sufficient income and housing.
- Gather Documents: Marriage certificates, birth certificates, dependency proof, all legalized and translated into Portuguese.
- Submit D6 Visa Application: Via Portuguese consulates or VFS Global/BLS International centers where available.
- Biometric Data Collection: Submit fingerprints and photos during appointment process.
- Enter Portugal: Within visa validity period (usually 120 days).
- Apply for Residence Permit: Schedule appointment with AIMA within 90 days of arrival.
- Register Locally: Register with local municipality (Câmara Municipal) for residence certificate (Atestado de Residência).
- Obtain NIF and NISS: Family members need NIF (tax number) and NISS (social security number) for full integration.
Where to Apply for a Portugal Family Reunification Visa
Visa applications are submitted outside Portugal at Portuguese consulates or designated visa application centers. Some consulates outsource services to VFS Global or BLS International. After arrival in Portugal, the residence permit is obtained from AIMA offices. Always confirm the correct submission process with your local Portuguese consulate.
- Portuguese Consulates: In the applicant's country of residence or jurisdiction.
- Visa Application Centers: VFS Global or BLS International centers where available.
- AIMA Offices in Portugal: For residence permit processing after arrival (formerly SEF offices).
- Online Services: Some preliminary steps may be completed through Portuguese government online portals.
Appointment Details for Portugal Family Reunification Visa
Appointments are required for both the visa application and residence permit issuance. Booking early is essential due to high demand. Applicants must attend in person, bringing all required documents with proper translations and legalizations. Biometric data collection is mandatory. Proper appointment management prevents delays or cancellations.
- Mandatory for both the D6 visa application abroad and residence permit application in Portugal.
- Book early -- 4-8 weeks in advance -- especially during high-demand periods (summer and year-end).
- Arrive with all documents in original and certified copies; incomplete applications may result in rejection.
- Biometric data collection required unless recently submitted for other Portuguese visas.
Financial Requirements for a Portugal Family Reunification Visa
Applicants must demonstrate the sponsor's financial stability through specific income thresholds. This includes minimum income levels, housing adequacy, and proof of ongoing financial support. The sponsor's income must equal or exceed Portuguese minimum wage (€820-870 per month), with at least 50% more to support a second adult and 30% additional for each child. Meeting these financial requirements is mandatory for D6 visa approval.
- Base Income: €820-870 per month (Portuguese minimum wage for 2025).
- Additional Family Members: €4,920 per year for a partner and €2,952 per year for each child.
- Proof of Income: Payslips, employment contracts, pension statements, or bank statements.
- Housing Requirements: Adequate accommodation with sufficient space for all family members.
Processing Time for Portugal Family Reunification Visa
Processing times vary depending on consulate workload and seasonal demand. D6 visa approval typically takes 2-4 weeks; residence permit issuance can take 30-60 days. Peak seasons may extend processing up to 3 months. Planning and early application submission help prevent delays.
- D6 Visa Decision: 2-4 weeks (up to 8 weeks during peak seasons).
- Residence Permit Issuance: 30-60 days after application with AIMA in Portugal.
- Peak Seasons: Summer months and year-end may see longer processing times.
Tip: Apply at least 8-10 weeks before planned travel to account for potential delays.
Portugal Family Reunification Visa Fees (2025)
Applicants should budget for all costs associated with the Portugal Family Reunification Visa, including official visa fees, residence permit charges, and additional expenses for document preparation and processing.
- D6 Visa Application Fee: €90 per applicant at Portuguese consulates.
- Residence Permit Fee: €83.20 per applicant for residence permit issuance with AIMA.
- Additional Costs: Document translations (€15-25 per page), apostilles (€10-30), medical certificates, and courier fees.
- VFS/BLS Service Fees: €20-35 additional service charges where applicable.
Health Insurance for Family Reunification Visa Portugal
All non-EU family members must have adequate health coverage during their stay in Portugal. This can be through private health insurance or access to Portugal's public healthcare system through the sponsor's coverage.
- Private health insurance mandatory unless family member qualifies for public healthcare via sponsor.
- Policies must cover minimum €30,000 for comprehensive medical care.
- Coverage must be valid throughout Portugal for entire duration of stay.
- Alternative: Access to Portuguese National Health Service (SNS) through sponsor's registration.
Common Mistakes That Lead to Visa Rejections
Common errors include incomplete documentation, insufficient income proof, incorrect translations, or missed deadlines. Avoid submitting applications without proper legalization or failing to meet housing requirements. Ensuring all documents are correctly prepared and submitted within deadlines reduces rejection risk.
- Submitting incomplete or incorrectly translated documents into Portuguese.
- Failing to demonstrate sufficient income or adequate housing for family size.
- Missing residence permit application deadline after arrival in Portugal.
- Not properly legalizing foreign documents with apostilles as required.
- Insufficient proof of family relationship or dependency.
How Jobbatical Streamlines Your Portugal Family Reunification Visa Application
Jobbatical simplifies the complex Portugal D6 family visa process. Our comprehensive services include eligibility assessment, document preparation, visa submission, AIMA coordination, and local registration support. This ensures your family reunification application is handled accurately and efficiently, saving time and reducing stress.
- Eligibility Assessment -- Comprehensive review of sponsor and family compliance with 2025 D6 visa regulations.
- Document Preparation -- Tailored checklists, professional translations, and apostille coordination.
- Application Management -- Submit and track applications through official Portuguese consular channels.
- AIMA Liaison -- Coordinate residence permit appointments and ensure compliance with Portuguese immigration requirements.
- Post-Arrival Integration -- Assist with municipal registration, NIF/NISS applications, and healthcare enrollment.
Why Choose Jobbatical for Your Portugal Family Reunification Visa?
Jobbatical provides expert guidance at every stage of your Portugal family visa journey. Our platform tracks application progress, ensures compliance with 2025 regulations, and supports non-EU families worldwide. Focus on reuniting with your loved ones while we handle the complex immigration process.
- Specialized Immigration Expertise -- Deep knowledge of Portuguese immigration law and AIMA procedures.
- Technology-Driven Platform -- Real-time tracking of application status and deadline management.
- Comprehensive Support -- From initial eligibility assessment to residence permit collection and integration.
- Global Reach -- Expert support for families applying from anywhere worldwide.
- High Success Rate -- Proven track record with Portuguese D6 visa approvals and family reunifications.
Conclusion
Reuniting with your family in Portugal through the D6 visa is a transformative step toward building your new life in one of Europe's most welcoming countries. By following the correct process, preparing complete documentation, and meeting all financial and housing requirements, you can secure your Portugal family reunification visa efficiently. With Portugal's affordable living costs, excellent quality of life, and streamlined immigration process, your family can thrive while building toward permanent residency and Portuguese citizenship. With Jobbatical's expert guidance, you'll have confidence knowing every detail is professionally managed for your successful family reunion in Portugal.
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The Family Reunification Visa (commonly called the D6) allows close family members of a foreign national who legally resides in Portugal to join that sponsor. The resident must first request family reunification authorization from AIMA in Portugal; once authorized the family member applies for a D6 visa at the Portuguese embassy or consulate in their country.
A sponsor must be a foreign national legally resident in Portugal (valid residence permit) or in some cases a Portuguese/EU national with different procedures. The sponsor submits the reunification request to AIMA with supporting documents proving legal residence, income and housing.
The sponsor in Portugal must submit a family reunification request to AIMA (Agência para a Integração, Migrações e Asilo). AIMA reviews the request and issues an authorization letter if approved; the family member then applies for a D6 visa at the designated Portuguese consulate.
AIMA normally aims to decide within around 3 months; in complex cases this can be extended and domestic rules provide for tacit approval after defined maximum periods. If AIMA does not decide in time, there are legal remedies; consult AIMA guidance or a lawyer for case specifics.
After AIMA issues the authorization, the family member generally has **90 days** to apply for the D6 national visa at the Portuguese embassy/consulate responsible for their country of residence. Missing this deadline may invalidate the authorization.
Common documents: valid passport, AIMA authorization notice, proof of family relationship (marriage/birth/adoption certificates), sponsor’s residence permit, proof of accommodation in Portugal, proof of means of subsistence, travel/health insurance, and criminal record checks where required. Country-specific lists may vary.
Yes. Documents issued abroad typically must be legalized (Hague apostille or consular legalization where applicable) and translated into Portuguese by an official translator. Consulate/VFS instructions specify the exact requirements for each country.
Yes , consular visa fees apply for the D6 application. Fee amounts vary by country and nationality; the Portuguese gov portal lists standard fees (example: many national visa types are €90, exceptions apply). Check the consulate or gov.pt for the precise amount.
Yes. After arriving and once they obtain their residence card (the Cartão de Residência), family reunification residents generally have the right to work and access education and health services, subject to the conditions of their permit.
Within the required period after arrival, the family member must apply for a residence card (Cartão de Residência) via AIMA (or the local AIMA desk). They will register with local authorities, obtain a tax number (NIF) and access health/social services as applicable.
Parents can be eligible if they are dependent on the sponsor and dependency can be proven with relevant documentation. AIMA assesses dependency and circumstances case-by-case.
Unmarried partners may be eligible when the partnership is legally recognized (e.g., de facto partnership where applicable) and sufficient evidence of a stable relationship is provided. Evidence requirements differ and are assessed by AIMA.
You must demonstrate adequate means to support the family members and suitable accommodation. AIMA evaluates sufficiency on a case-by-case basis; there is no single universal numeric threshold published for all cases — consult AIMA or a local immigration advisor for guidance.
If AIMA delays beyond statutory periods there may be tacit approval rules or legal remedies; if refused you can ask for reasons and may appeal or reapply depending on the refusal grounds. Get legal advice for appeals and timeframes.
No. EU/EEA/Swiss nationals and their non-EU family members follow different EU/Portugal procedures (EU family member registration / CRUE) and not the D6 path. Check AIMA guidance for EU registration and Article-15 residence cards for non-EU family members.
Yes. Adopted children generally qualify provided the adoption is legally recognized and you present authenticated adoption documents (apostilled and translated). AIMA will require proof of legal adoption and dependency where relevant.
Yes. Short-term travel/medical insurance is typically required for the visa application stage; after arrival the family member registers for Portuguese health coverage when eligible. Check the consulate checklist for the exact insurance coverage required.
Eligible family members commonly include a spouse or legally recognized partner, minor or dependent children (including adopted children), and dependent adult ascendants (parents) when dependency is proven. Exact definitions and evidence required depend on the case and AIMA guidance.
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