Are you planning to bring your family together in Portugal? The Portugal D6 Family Reunion Visa is your gateway to reuniting with loved ones in one of Europe’s most captivating countries.
Whether you're seeking to join a spouse, child, or parent who’s already a legal resident, this visa offers the legal framework and support you need to start your new chapter together in Portugal.
In this guide, we’ll dive straight into the essentials, from eligibility criteria to the application process, ensuring you’re fully prepared to navigate every step with confidence.
Key Takeaways
- 🤝 The D6 Family Reunion Visa is a pathway for non-EU nationals to reunite with family members residing legally in Portugal, offering potential residency and access to employment, education, healthcare, and social services.
- 📋 Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria such as family relationships, financial stability, and documentation requirements, including legalizing and translating foreign documents into Portuguese for the visa process.
- 🏅 Holders of the D6 Visa can seek permanent residency after five years and Portuguese citizenship upon meeting language and cultural knowledge criteria, with professional legal assistance being advisable to navigate the application complexities.
What is Portugal's D6 Family Reunion Visa?
Portugal’s D6 Family Reunion Visa, also known as the Portuguese Family Visa, is a vital tool for non-EU nationals seeking to reunite with family members who are legal Portuguese residents.
This family visa is designed to uphold the integrity of families by allowing them to live together in Portugal, enjoying the country’s rich culture and vibrant lifestyle.
The D6 Visa does more than just reunite families; it offers a pathway to stability and growth in Portugal. Valid for up to two years, the visa allows holders to apply for a residence permit card, providing the flexibility to stay longer and access crucial services.
These include the right to work, pursue education, receive healthcare, and benefit from social security—privileges that mirror those available to Portuguese citizens.
Whether you’re looking to join a spouse, child, or parent, the Portuguese Family Visa ensures that you and your loved ones can fully integrate and thrive in Portugal.
To further illustrate Portugal’s increasing popularity among non-EU nationals, the following graph shows the steady growth in the number of foreign nationals residing in Portugal over recent years.
Comparing Portugal Visas:
We offer all long-term Portuguese visas.
The Essence of the D6 Visa
The D6 Visa plays a crucial role in family reunification in Portugal, enabling immediate family members of legal Portuguese residents—such as spouses, minor children, and dependent parents—to join their loved ones in the country.
To successfully obtain the D6 Visa, applicants must meet the following essential requirements:
- 🏠 Hold a temporary residence permit
- 📑 Present a certified copy of their passport
- 🔍 Complete a criminal record check
Beyond just reuniting families, this visa also opens the door to significant opportunities, including access to employment, education, and healthcare in Portugal.
The D6 Visa allows families to fully integrate into Portuguese society and enjoy a stable and fulfilling life together in a welcoming and culturally rich environment.
The Application Journey: Step-by-Step Guide to the D6 Visa
Who Can Apply for the D6 Visa?
To apply for the D6 Family Reunion Visa, eligibility is primarily reserved for non-EU nationals who are immediate family members of legal Portuguese residents. This includes:
- Spouses
- Dependent children
- Dependent parents
Sponsor Requirements and Responsibilities
The sponsor must meet specific criteria to support their family member’s visa application. These include:
- Providing evidence of suitable accommodation in Portugal
- Presenting a recent bank statement from a Portuguese bank to demonstrate financial stability and the ability to cover living expenses
By fulfilling these requirements, sponsors ensure a smoother and more successful application process, paving the way for family reunification in Portugal.
Eligibility Criteria for the Portugal D6 Visa
Required Documentation
To successfully apply for the D6 Family Reunion Visa, you need to gather several essential documents that establish your eligibility and support your application.
Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:
Essential Documents for the D6 Visa Application
- Valid Passport: A passport with a validity that extends beyond your intended stay in Portugal.
- Certified Copy of Passport: A notarized copy of your passport.
- Proof of Family Ties: Documents such as a birth certificate, marriage certificate, or adoption papers to prove your relationship with the family member in Portugal.
- Criminal Record Check: A clean criminal record certificate from your country of origin and any other country where you have resided for more than a year.
- Proof of Accommodation: Documentation that shows you have a place to stay in Portugal.
- Financial Proof: Evidence of sufficient financial resources, such as a recent bank statement from a Portuguese bank, to support your stay.
How to Legalize and Translate Documents
Documents issued outside of Portugal must be legalized and translated into Portuguese. The steps include:
- Legalization: Ensure that all foreign-issued documents are legalized through the appropriate process, which may include an apostille.
- Certified Translation: Have each document translated into Portuguese by a certified translator. The translation should include the translator’s credentials and a declaration of accuracy.
- Notarization: Once translated, the documents should be notarized to ensure they are legally recognized in Portugal.
Assembling the Documentation Puzzle
Applying for the D6 Visa requires several important documents. These include:
- A passport with the passport number, issue date, and expiration date
- A copy of the passport
- Foreign-issued documents that have undergone the process of legalization must be considered valid for the application.
These documents are crucial for completing the D6 Visa application.
Additionally, a certified translator must translate these documents into Portuguese so that the Portuguese authorities can properly evaluate your application.
Critical Documents for Application Success
The assembly of the right documents is a critical step towards the successful acquisition of the D6 visa. Essential documents include:
- A passport valid beyond your intended stay in Portugal
- A certified copy of the passport
- Evidence of familial ties, such as a birth or marriage certificate
- A criminal records check from the places of residence
Dependents also need to provide their passport and proof of entitlement to family reunification.
Notably, a criminal record certificate from your country of origin and any country where you have resided for more than a year is a must-have.
Lastly, evidence of accommodation in Portugal forms an integral part of your application documents.
Legalizing and Translating Foreign Documents
Navigating the waters of foreign document legalization and translation for the D6 Visa application can appear complex, but with the right guidance, it becomes manageable. Here are the steps you need to follow:
- A certified translator must translate each foreign-issued document into Portuguese.
- The translation should include a declaration of the translator’s credentials and confirm the thoroughness and precision of the document.
- A notary public should then certify the translated document.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your documents are properly translated and legalized for your D6 Visa application.
The relevant embassies, consulates, and authorities in Portugal that handle the authentication and apostille of state-issued documents handle the authentication and translation of foreign documents.
The Portuguese government has officially recognized a few translation companies for this purpose, including US Language Services, Languex, and TranslateSwift.
Starting Your Application: SEF and Consular Steps
The D6 Visa application journey commences with SEF reviewing your application and issuing a formal statement that enables you to apply for the visa from outside Portugal. An appointment with SEF can be scheduled through their pre-booking system online or by telephone.
The essential documents to be presented during this process include:
- A certified copy of your passport
- A previous passport, if applicable
- Valid travel insurance
- A criminal records check for all countries where you have resided for over a year
- Evidence of family connections and entitlement to family reunification in Portugal
Finalizing Residency: Registering in Portugal
The final step of the D6 Visa application journey is becoming a registered resident in Portugal.
This step is achieved by applying for a residence permit at the Immigration and Borders Service (SEF) upon arrival in Portugal, provided that your work visa has been approved.
The necessary documents for this registration usually include:
- A valid passport
- Two recent identity pictures
- Proof of accommodation
- Proof of health insurance
- An original police clearance certificate
- A receipt of payment of fees
- A bank statement
- An original bank reference
- A visa
- Proof of income
- Documents proving family bonds.
Registering as a resident in Portugal comes with its own perks, such as:
- Visa-free access to the EEA, EU and Schengen Area
- Access to the job market
- Unlimited educational opportunities
- Eligibility for the Golden Visa program
- Potential to qualify for favorable tax residency status
Timeline and Fees: Processing the D6 Visa
Comprehending the timeline and costs related to the D6 Visa application can aid in better planning your process. The processing time for a D6 Visa application is typically 60 days.
If the assessment of a D6 Visa application exceeds a duration of 6 months, it will automatically be deemed valid, and SEF notifies the Director General or Consular and Portuguese Communities Affairs about the situation.
The fee for applying for the D6 Visa is approximately €84. There might be additional charges, such as:
- Visa processing fee of approximately €90
- Residence permit registration fee of €85
- Potential charges for the assistance of immigration professionals, which may start at €1500.
Expected Processing Times
Time is of the essence when it comes to visa processing. The typical duration for processing a D6 visa in Portugal is 60 days.
You can keep track of your visa application status by accessing the online portal of the Portuguese embassy and logging in with the provided username and password.
Breakdown of Associated Costs
Every journey comes with its costs, and the D6 Visa application is no different. The present application fee for the D6 Visa in Portugal is €90.
In addition to the application fee, supplementary expenses may encompass fees for registering a residence permit (€85) and expenses for engaging immigration specialists, which can start at €1,500.
Living in Portugal with a D6 Visa: Rights and Responsibilities
Residing in Portugal with a D6 Visa signifies more than just a change in location; it represents embracing a set of rights and responsibilities.
D6 Visa holders are entitled to participate in Portugal’s national health system and receive access to excellent and cost-effective healthcare upon obtaining legal residency through the family reunification process.
Additionally, D6 visa holders have the opportunity to seek employment and education in Portugal.
Employment and Education Opportunities
The D6 Visa not only brings you closer to your loved ones but also opens doors to vast employment and education opportunities. D6 Visa holders have the right to engage in employment and enjoy equivalent work benefits to Portuguese citizens, encompassing employment, social security, and tax benefits. If entrepreneurship is your calling, you can start your own business in Portugal.
On the education front, D6 Visa holders can engage in higher education pursuits related to foreign affairs, such as:
- 🎓 Academic studies
- 🌍 Exchange programs
- 💼 Professional internships
- 🧳 Other related activities
For those interested in learning the local language, enrolling in Portuguese-language courses is also an option.
Access to Healthcare Services
Healthcare is a crucial consideration when moving to a new country. D6 Visa holders can utilize both the public and private healthcare systems in Portugal, provided they have valid travel health insurance that fulfills the requirements of the Schengen area.
To access the public healthcare system, D6 Visa holders need to acquire a National Health Service (SNS) user number, which allows them to avail medical assistance at public healthcare facilities.
Movingto can help with private healthcare.
The following graph demonstrates the percentage of non-EU residents who are benefiting from Portugal’s public healthcare system and social security services, underscoring the robust support network available to D6 Visa holders
On the Road to Permanent Residence and Citizenship
The D6 Visa serves not only as a means for family reunification but also as a pathway to permanent residency and Portuguese citizenship. D6 visa holders can apply for permanent residency in Portugal after residing in the country for 5 years. To acquire a permanent residence permit, D6 Visa holders need to maintain legal residence for five consecutive years.
After five years of lawful residence, D6 Visa holders can apply for Portuguese citizenship, provided they successfully complete a basic test in Portuguese language and culture.
Criteria for Permanent Residency
The road to permanent residency requires fulfilling certain criteria. A person must lawfully reside in Portugal for a period exceeding five years to qualify for permanent residency.
While the criteria for permanent residency can vary depending on family status and age groups, the financial situation and employment do not directly impact the eligibility for permanent residency.
However, providing evidence of adequate proficiency in the Portuguese language is a prerequisite for acquiring permanent residency as a Portuguese resident.
Achieving Portuguese Citizenship
Achieving Portuguese citizenship is a significant milestone for D6 Visa holders. To be eligible for Portuguese citizenship, a D6 Visa holder must:
- 🏡 Reside in Portugal for a period of 5 years
- 🗣️ Demonstrate an A2 level of proficiency in the Portuguese language
- 📜 Successfully complete a test on Portuguese history, culture, and language.
The path to citizenship requires meeting these requirements.
Notably, it’s permissible for D6 Visa holders to retain dual citizenship after obtaining Portuguese citizenship.
Maintaining Legal Status: Renewal and Changes in Circumstances
Life is dynamic, and alterations in your personal circumstances can impact your D6 Visa status. The renewal of the D6 Visa involves submitting a renewal application to SEF (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras), along with a fee of €90, and the processing timeline is 60 days. The D6 Visa can be renewed once every two years for the initial renewal, and subsequently every three years for renewals.
In the event of a change in personal circumstances, such as severance of family ties, individuals may be eligible to apply for an independent residence permit under specific conditions.
The Renewal Process Explained
The renewal of your D6 visa is an essential step to ensure your continued legal stay in Portugal. The process for renewing the D6 Visa entails submitting a reunification request to SEF (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras).
Upon approval of the request by SEF, the visa renewal typically takes around 60 days to process.
The documents to be submitted for renewal include:
- Two identical passport photographs
- A copy of your previous passport (if applicable)
- A valid travel insurance policy that covers necessary medical expenses, including emergency assistance and repatriation
The renewal fee for the D6 Visa is approximately €84 or €90.
Adjusting to New Circumstances
Life is never static, and changes in your circumstances can impact your D6 Visa status. Some examples of changes that can have implications on your D6 Visa include:
- A change in marital status
- A change in financial situation
- The passing of your sponsoring family member
- The birth of a child
- A change in your sponsor’s status from resident to citizen
It is important to be aware of these potential changes and understand how they may affect your D6 Visa.
In every circumstance, it is essential to:
- Update your documentation
- Present evidence of the change
- Maintain adequate financial resources to support your family members in Portugal
- Consult the consulate or immigration authorities to ascertain the specific requirements and possibilities for family reunification.
Expert Legal Assistance for Your Visa Application
In navigating the complexities of immigration, professional assistance can be highly beneficial. Engaging the services of an immigration lawyer for the D6 Visa application process can provide expert guidance, improve the likelihood of a successful application, and offer support in navigating legal complexities and potential challenges.
Our counsel and proficiency can help prevent delays and enhance the efficiency of the process.
Comprehensive Immigration Support
Comprehensive immigration support offers guidance throughout the D6 Visa application process. These services offer:
- A detailed guide to understanding the Family Reunification Visa process
- Assistance with legal documentation
- Guidance through the various steps required for the application
- Immigration advisors and legal firms to provide guidance throughout the application process
- Assistance in navigating the complexities of immigration procedures
- Updates on the status of the application
- Communication with authorities when needed
This support ensures a seamless application procedure.
Summary
The D6 Family Reunion Visa Portugal is a gateway to reuniting with your loved ones in the vibrant landscapes of Portugal. It extends beyond the realms of a visa and forges a link between families separated by geographical boundaries.
This guide has thoroughly explored the essence of the D6 Visa, including the eligibility requirements and the process of assembling necessary documents.
It also covers the application journey, detailing the rights and responsibilities in Portugal, as well as the path to permanent residency and citizenship.
Additionally, the importance of maintaining legal status and seeking professional assistance has been emphasized throughout the guide.
So, with this knowledge at your fingertips, you are well-equipped to embark on your journey of family reunification in Portugal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the D6 visa for family reunification in Portugal?
The D6 visa in Portugal is for family reunification, allowing temporary or permanent residents to be reunited with close family members living abroad. Consider applying for this visa if you meet the eligibility criteria.
What is the difference between a D6 and a D7 visa in Portugal?
The D7 visa in Portugal has a family component that differs from the traditional Family Reunion visa, as it allows dependent children, a spouse, and a dependent grandparent to relocate with you, whereas the traditional Family Reunion visa only allows dependent children, a spouse, and a dependent grandparent.
How long does it take to get a family reunification visa in Portugal?
It takes approximately 60 days to process a family reunification visa in Portugal. Some applications may take an additional 60 days for review, and applicants will be notified of any extensions.
Who is eligible to apply for the D6 Visa?
Immediate family members of legal Portuguese residents, such as spouses, dependent children, and dependent parents, are eligible to apply for the D6 Visa. This visa is for those who are residing in Portugal.
What are the rights of D6 Visa holders in Portugal?
D6 Visa holders have the right to access Portugal's national health system, work, and pursue education in the country. This allows them to benefit from the excellent and affordable healthcare available in Portugal, as well as participate in the workforce and educational opportunities.
About Movingto
Movingto is a leading immigration law firm that specializes in helping individuals and families navigate the complex process of relocating to Portugal. With a team of experienced lawyers and immigration experts, Movingto.io provides tailored solutions to meet the unique needs of each client.
Why Choose Movingto?
- Expertise and Experience: Our lawyers have extensive knowledge of Portuguese immigration law and years of experience assisting clients with various visa applications, including the D7 Visa, Golden Visa, Startup Visa, and Family Reunion Visa.
- Personalized Approach: We understand that every client's situation is different. Our lawyers take the time to listen to your goals and provide personalized advice and guidance throughout the process.
- Comprehensive Support: Movingto.io offers a comprehensive range of services beyond legal advice, including assistance with document preparation, property search, and relocation planning.
- Competitive Fees: We offer competitive fees and transparent pricing so that you know exactly what to expect.
- Exceptional Client Service: Our team is committed to providing exceptional client service. We are responsive, attentive, and always available to answer your questions.
Whether you are an entrepreneur seeking to establish a business in Portugal, a retiree looking to enjoy the country's favorable tax regime, or a family seeking to reunite in Portugal, Movingto.io is here to guide you every step of the way.
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