Family Reunification Visa

Family unity is a fundamental right recognised by Italian law, extending fully to foreigners seeking to reunite with their families. Family reunification plays a crucial role in enabling family life, fostering socio-cultural stability, and supporting integration within the State. This, in turn, contributes to the promotion of economic and social cohesion.

 

Italy's Family Reunification Visa aims to enable foreign family members of non-EU and EU nationals to enter and stay freely in Italy. This visa promotes family unity by allowing spouses, minor children, dependent adult children, and dependent parents to secure residency in Italy.​

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Who Can Apply for an Italy Family Reunification Visa?

 

Family members of a non-EU national residing in Italy:

A foreign national legally residing in Italy or holding a valid visa for at least one year has the right to bring family members to join them. The main eligibility requirements are:

• Availability of suitable housing and proof of meeting the financial support requirements.

• Provision of documented evidence of the relationship to the person with regular immigration status in Italy.

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The family members eligible for a family permit (permesso di soggiorno per motivi familiari) include:

• Spouse (aged 18 years or older), who is not legally divorced.

• Children under 18 years old (including adopted, entrusted or protected) from either the spouse or born outside the marriage, who are unmarried and have the consent of the other parent.

• Dependent children over 18 years old who are unable to support themselves due to health issues.

• Dependent parents over 65 years old, provided they have no other children in their country of origin or if those children are unable to provide sufficient financial support.

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Family members of an EU national residing in Italy:

In accordance with the EU principle of freedom of movement and establishment, EU citizens have the right to enter and reside in Italy, with different procedures based on the intended length of stay (less than or more than three months. The same provisions apply to family members who accompany or join the EU citizen. Family members of an EU national living in Italy are eligible to receive an Italian long-term Residence Permit (Carta di Soggiorno per familiar di cittadino comunitario).

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The following family members are eligible to apply:

• Spouse.

• A partner in a legally recognized registered union with an EU/EEA citizen.

• Children under 21 years old or financially dependent, including those of the spouse or partner.

• Parents, if financially dependent, including those of the spouse or partner.

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In Italy, family members are entitled to work, receive healthcare, and pursue education based on their age and legal status. They are required to adhere to Italian regulations and renew their residence permits as necessary.

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The Family Unification Visa plays a crucial role in preserving family ties for immigrants in Italy, addressing humanitarian issues while aligning with the nation’s immigration control measures.

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