Portugal D6 Visa – Family Reunification Visa
The Portugal D6 Visa (Family Reunification Visa) allows family members of foreign citizens who are legally residing in Portugal to join them and live together in the country.
This right is guaranteed under Portuguese immigration law and ensures the preservation of family unity for residents holding a valid residence permit in Portugal.
⚠️ Important Legal Update – Deadline for Applications
Due to recent changes in Portuguese immigration law, if the family member is already in Portugal, the application for family reunification must be submitted within the legal deadline, which runs until April 2026.
After this period, new rules and potential procedural changes may apply.
👉 It is strongly recommended to begin the process as soon as possible to avoid missing this deadline.
Who Can Apply for Family Reunification in Portugal?
The D6 visa is intended for:
- Family members of non-EU, non-EEA, and non-Swiss citizens
- Individuals who hold a valid residence permit in Portugal
- Foreign residents who wish to bring their family members to live in Portugal legally
- For EU, EEA and Swiss citizens, click here.
Who Is Eligible for Family Reunification?
According to Portuguese immigration law (Articles 99 and 100), family reunification may apply to:
- Spouse or legally recognized partner
- Minor children or dependent children of the couple or of one spouse
- Adopted children (even if not married)
- Unmarried adult children who are financially dependent and studying in Portugal
- First-degree ascendants (parents), if financially dependent
- Minor siblings under legal guardianship of the resident
- Partner in a proven de facto union (minimum 2 years)
- Minor or dependent children of the partner
Financial Requirements (2026)
Applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial means:
- Main applicant: approximately €920 per month
- Each adult dependent: approximately €460 per month
- Each child: approximately €276 per month
These amounts are based on the updated Portuguese minimum wage for 2026, and are used as a reference to assess financial stability during the visa application process.
Where to Apply for the D6 Visa
The application process depends on the family member’s location:
If the family member is outside Portugal:
- Apply with AIMA (Agência para a Integração, Migrações e Asilo), after approval:
- Apply at Portuguese consulates in the country of residence, or
- Through VFS Global visa application centers
If the family member is already in Portugal:
- Apply directly with AIMA (Agência para a Integração, Migrações e Asilo)
⚠️ Reminder: In this situation, the application must respect the current legal deadline (until April 2026).
Required Documents for Family Reunification
Personal Documents
- Completed visa or residence application form
- Valid passport (valid for at least 3 months beyond intended stay)
- Two recent passport-sized photographs
- Valid travel insurance (covering medical care and repatriation)
- Criminal record certificate (country of origin or residence)
- Authorization for consultation of Portuguese criminal records (AIMA)
- Proof of accommodation in Portugal
- Proof of sufficient means of subsistence
Documents Proving Family Relationship
- Marriage certificate (spouse)
- Birth certificate (children)
- Proof of dependency and enrollment (dependent adult children)
- Written authorization or court decision (for minors)
- Proof of financial dependency (for ascendants)
- Court decision (guardianship or adoption)
- Proof of de facto union (minimum 2 years)
Processing Fees and Costs
- AIMA fee: Approximately €416 per person (adults)
- Consular or VFS fee: Approximately €110 per person
- Additional VFS service fees may apply
Validity of the D6 Visa and Residence Permit
- The D6 visa is valid for up to 4 months
- The family member must enter Portugal and apply for a residence permit within this period
After approval:
- Residence permit is valid for 2 years, renewable
- Absences allowed:
- Up to 6 consecutive months, or
- Up to 8 non-consecutive months
Why Apply for Family Reunification in Portugal?
The Portugal family reunification visa (D6) allows families to:
- Live together legally in Portugal
- Maintain family unity under Portuguese law
- Access education and healthcare systems
- Build a stable life within the European Union
Conclusion
The Portugal D6 Visa (Family Reunification) is a key legal pathway to ensure families can live together in Portugal.
With recent legal changes, it is especially important to act quickly—particularly for applicants already in Portugal—to comply with the April 2026 deadline.
Proper documentation, planning, and professional guidance can significantly increase the chances of a successful application.
📞 Contact for Professional Support
Immigration processes can be complex and time-sensitive.
Contact us for personalized guidance and full support throughout your Portugal visa application process.
