Family reunification
General information only; not legal advice. Rules change.
Last updated 2026-06-21
What happens next. General information only; not legal advice. Rules change.
Family reunification allows non-EU citizens with a valid residence permit to bring their closest family members to Portugal. Eligible relatives include: spouse or partner in a recognised civil union; minor children; dependent adult children in education; direct-line dependant ascendants; and minor siblings under legal guardianship.
The sponsor must generally hold a valid residence permit for at least 2 years before applying — reduced to 15 months for spouses/partners who cohabited for at least 18 months. Important exception: ARI (Golden Visa) holders, EU Blue Card holders and highly qualified professionals (Art. 90) may apply for reunification immediately, without the 2-year wait. AIMA has 9 months to decide.
The application can be submitted by the sponsor to AIMA (the family member then obtains a reunification visa from the consulate), or directly to AIMA by the family member if they are already legally in Portugal. Under Organic Law 1/2026, once granted, the family member must attend Portuguese language and constitutional values training.
Rules changed in 2025. Always verify current requirements with a lawyer before starting.
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