The easiest way to assess the feasibility of getting a residence visa for Portugal

Are you planning to reunite with your family in Portugal? The D6 family reunion visa for Portugal is a critical step towards bringing your loved ones together in this vibrant country. Designed for non-EU citizens, this visa provides a pathway to join family members who are legal residents in Portugal. In this article, we'll guide you through the visa's eligibility criteria, application process, required documentation and the rights and responsibilities that come with it, ensuring you're well equipped to navigate the journey towards family reunification in Portugal.

Main conclusions

• The D6 Family Reunion Visa is a way for non-EU citizens to reunite with family members legally residing in Portugal, offering potential residency and access to employment, education, health and social services.
• Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria, such as family relationships, financial stability and documentation requirements, including the legalization and translation of foreign documents into Portuguese for the visa process.
• D6 visa holders can seek permanent residence after five years and Portuguese citizenship by meeting the language and cultural knowledge criteria, and professional legal assistance is advisable to navigate the complexities of the application.

Unlocking the Door to Family Reunification in Portugal: Understanding the D6 Visa

The Portuguese Family Visa, also known as the Portugal Family Reunification Visa or D6 Visa, is an access key that invites family members of legal Portuguese residents to share a life in this magnificent country. The purpose of this visa is to uphold the integrity of the family, allowing them to experience the charm, culture and opportunities that Portugal has to offer together during a family reunion.

The D6 visa offers a promising opportunity for non-EU citizens who want to reunite with their families in Portugal. The D6 visa can be valid for up to two years when the sponsor has a permanent residence permit. This allows for longer stays and greater flexibility for the visa holder. What's more, the privileges of this visa don't stop at family reunification. By obtaining the D6 Visa and, subsequently, a residence permit card, family members can access employment, education, health and social security benefits in Portugal, mirroring the rights and opportunities available to Portuguese citizens.

The Essence of the Visa D6

The D6 visa is a cornerstone of family reunification in Portugal, allowing immediate family members of legal residents to join them in the country. Spouses, minor children and dependent parents of foreign citizens with valid residence permits in Portugal are also eligible for this visa. This allows family members to join their loved ones in Portugal.

The process of acquiring this visa involves adhering to specific prerequisites, such as:

• Possession of a temporary residence permit
• Residing in the country for a specific period
• Presenting a certified copy of your passport
• Obtaining a criminal background check.

In addition, obtaining a D6 visa not only allows migration to Portugal, but also offers potential prospects for Portuguese residency and opportunities to work or study in the country.

The Way to Bring Families Together

The D6 visa, also known as a family reunion visa, promotes family reunions through a simplified process. The process includes the following steps:

1. The main candidate schedules an appointment with the SEF (Immigration and Borders Service) in Portugal.
2. SEF approves family reunification.
3. The family member applies for the D6 visa from their country of origin at the Portuguese Consulate or VFS within their jurisdiction.

From there, the application process continues, taking approximately 60 days to reach a decision.

Navigating the D6 Visa Eligibility Requirements

Understanding D6 visa eligibility and sponsor requirements is key to ensuring a successful family reunification visa application. The D6 visa is available to non-EU citizens who are immediate family members, such as spouses, dependent children and dependent parents of individuals legally residing in Portugal.

The sponsor, on the other hand, is required to prove their ability to financially support their family members. This would mean providing evidence of suitable accommodation in Portugal and a recent bank statement from a Portuguese bank to demonstrate their ability to cover living expenses.

Who qualifies as an eligible family member?

In the context of the D6 visa, the definition of family goes beyond the nuclear family. Eligibility extends to:

• your spouse
• children under 18
• dependent adult children
• first-degree dependent relatives

Notably, the eligibility consideration for the D6 visa, also known as the family visa, includes adopted children and parents of residents, which signifies the comprehensive family scope of this visa. Supporting documents, such as birth or marriage certificates, are required to establish the family relationship.

Conditions for Sponsors

The sponsor plays an integral role in the D6 visa application. For a successful application, the sponsor must be a legally recognized spouse or partner and have dependent children (including adopted children) or children of the resident's partner.

In addition, the sponsor is required to demonstrate their financial stability by earning a minimum of four times the Portuguese minimum wage, which, as of 2024, is on average €3,280 per month. In essence, the sponsor holds the key to the family reunification journey in Portugal.

Assembling the Documentation Puzzle

Applying for the D6 visa requires several important documents. These include:

• A passport with the passport number, date of issue and expiration date
• A copy of your passport
• Documents issued abroad that have undergone the legalization process to be considered valid for the application.

These documents are crucial for completing the D6 visa application.

In addition, a certified translator must translate these documents into Portuguese so that the Portuguese authorities can properly assess your application.

Documents Critical to the Application's Success

Assembling the right documents is a critical step in successfully acquiring the D6 visa. Essential documents include:

• A passport valid beyond your intended stay in Portugal
• A certified copy of your passport
• Evidence of family ties, such as a birth or marriage certificate
• A criminal records check of 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 from any country where you have resided for more than one year is mandatory. Finally, evidence of accommodation in Portugal is an integral part of your application documents.

Legalizing and Translating Foreign Documents

Navigating the waters of legalizing and translating foreign documents for the D6 visa application can seem complex, but with the right guidance, it becomes manageable. Here are the steps you need to follow:

1. A certified translator must translate each document issued abroad into Portuguese.
2. The translation must include a statement of the translator's credentials and confirm the accuracy of the document.
3. A notary public must 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 embassies or consulates and relevant authorities in Portugal that deal with the authentication and apostille of documents issued by the state deal with the authentication and translation of foreign documents. The Portuguese government has officially recognized a number of translation companies for this purpose, including US Language Services, Languex and TranslateSwift.

The Application Journey: A Step-by-Step Guide to the D6 Visa

Starting the D6 visa application process can be exciting but challenging. It starts with submitting the necessary documents, such as recent photos, family certificates and a valid passport, to an Embassy or Consulate. Once submitted, your documents will be reviewed and you will receive notification of the decision after a thorough examination.

The final step in the application process is to visit the SEF office in Portugal to register as a resident.

Starting Your Registration: SEF and Consular Steps

The D6 visa application journey begins with SEF reviewing your application and issuing a formal declaration allowing you to apply for the visa from outside Portugal. An appointment with SEF can be scheduled through their online pre-booking system 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 more than one year
• Evidence of family connections and the right to family reunification in Portugal

Finalizing your residency: Registering in Portugal

The final stage of the D6 visa application journey is to become a registered resident in Portugal. This stage is achieved by applying for a residence permit at the Immigration and Borders Service (SEF) on arrival in Portugal, provided your work visa has been approved. The documents required for this registration usually include:

• A valid passport
• Two recent identity photos
• Proof of accommodation
• Proof of health insurance
• An original police clearance certificate
• A receipt for payment of fees
• A bank statement
• An original banking reference
• A visa
• Proof of income
• Documents proving family ties.

Registering as a resident in Portugal comes with its own advantages:

• 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 residence status
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Schedule and Fees: Processing the D6 Visa

Understanding the timeline and costs related to the D6 visa application can help you better plan your process. The processing time for a D6 visa application is normally 60 days. If the evaluation of a D6 visa application exceeds a duration of 6 months, it will automatically be considered valid, and SEF will notify the Director General or Consular and Portuguese Community Affairs of the situation.

The fee for applying for the D6 visa is approximately €84. There may be additional charges, such as

• Visa processing fee of approximately €90
• Residence permit registration fee of €85
• Possible charges for the assistance of immigration professionals, which can start at €1500.

Expected Processing Times

Time is of the essence when it comes to visa processing. The typical processing time for a D6 visa in Portugal is 60 days.

You can follow the status of your visa application by accessing the Portuguese embassy's online portal and logging in with the username and password provided.

Distribution of Associated Costs

Every trip comes with its costs, and applying for a D6 visa is no different. The current application fee for the D6 Visa in Portugal is €90. In addition to the application fee, supplementary expenses can include fees for registering a residence permit (€85) and expenses for hiring immigration specialists, which can start at €1500.

Living in Portugal on a D6 Visa: Rights and Responsibilities

Residing in Portugal on a D6 visa means more than just a change of location; it means embracing a set of rights and responsibilities. D6 visa holders have the right to participate in Portugal's national healthcare system and receive access to excellent and affordable healthcare when obtaining legal residency through the family reunification process.

In addition, 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 work benefits equivalent to Portuguese citizens, covering 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 activities 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 Health Services

Health is a crucial consideration when moving to a new country. D6 visa holders can use the public and private healthcare systems in Portugal, as long as they have valid travel health insurance that meets the requirements of the Schengen area.

To access the public health system, D6 Visa holders need to acquire a National Health Service (NHS) user number, which allows them to take advantage of medical assistance in public health facilities.

On the Road to Permanent Residence and Citizenship

The D6 visa serves not only as a means of family reunification, but also as a pathway to permanent residence and Portuguese citizenship. D6 visa holders can apply for permanent residence 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 legal residence, D6 visa holders can apply for Portuguese citizenship, provided they successfully complete a basic Portuguese language and culture test.

Criteria for Permanent Residence

The path to permanent residence requires certain criteria to be met. A person must legally reside in Portugal for a period of more than five years to qualify for permanent residence. Although the criteria for permanent residence may vary depending on family status and age groups, financial situation and employment do not directly affect eligibility for permanent residence.

However, providing evidence of adequate proficiency in the Portuguese language is a prerequisite for acquiring permanent residence 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 Portuguese
• Successfully complete a Portuguese history, culture and language test.

The path to citizenship requires meeting these requirements.

Notably, D6 visa holders are allowed to retain dual citizenship after obtaining Portuguese citizenship.

Maintaining Legal Status: Renewal and Changing Circumstances

Life is dynamic, and changes in your personal circumstances can affect your D6 visa status. Renewing the D6 Visa involves submitting a renewal application to SEF (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras), along with a fee of €90, and the processing time is 60 days. The D6 visa can be renewed once every two years for the initial renewal and every three years thereafter for renewals.

In the event of a change in personal circumstances, such as the separation of family ties, individuals may be eligible to apply for an independent residence permit under specific conditions.

The Renewal Process Explained

Renewing your D6 visa is an essential step in guaranteeing your continued legal stay in Portugal. The D6 visa renewal process involves submitting a reunification application to SEF (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras). Once the application has been approved by SEF, visa renewal usually takes around 60 days to process.

The documents to be sent for renewal include:

• Two identical passport photos
• A copy of your previous passport (if applicable)
• A valid travel insurance policy covering 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 affect your D6 visa status. Some examples of changes that may have implications for your D6 visa include:

• A change in marital status
• A change in financial situation
• The death 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 possible changes and to understand how they may affect your D6 visa.

In all circumstances, it is essential:

• Update your documentation
• Current evidence of change
• Maintain adequate financial resources to support your family members in Portugal
• Check with the consulate or immigration authorities for specific requirements and possibilities for family reunification.
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Specialized Legal Assistance for Your Visa Application

When navigating the complexities of immigration, professional assistance can be highly beneficial. Hiring 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.

Their advice and proficiency can help avoid delays and improve the efficiency of the process.

Comprehensive Immigration Support

Comprehensive immigration support offers guidance throughout the D6 visa application process. These services include:

• A detailed guide to understanding the Family Reunification Visa process
• Assistance with legal documentation
• Guidance through the various steps required for registration
• Immigration consultants and law firms to provide guidance throughout the application process
• Assistance in navigating the complexities of immigration procedures
• Application status updates
• Communication with the authorities when necessary

This support guarantees a continuous application procedure.

Law firms and specialized agencies, such as Total Law and Global Citizen Solutions, provide dedicated immigration support services for the D6 Visa in Portugal.

Why professional help is important

Professional assistance is not just an option, but a necessity for navigating the complexities of the D6 visa application. The experience of an immigration lawyer can streamline the D6 visa application process, providing guidance at every stage, handling all the preparation and submission of paperwork and liaising with the authorities. They can recognize typical pitfalls in the D6 visa application, such as the absence of specific documents or errors in the application protocol, and offer expert guidance to mitigate these challenges.

Summary

The D6 Portugal Family Reunion Visa is a gateway to reuniting with loved ones in the vibrant landscapes of Portugal. It extends beyond the realms of a visa and forges a bond between families separated by geographical borders. From understanding the essence of the D6 visa, navigating the eligibility requirements, putting together the document puzzle and following the application journey, to exploring rights and responsibilities in Portugal, the path to permanent residency and citizenship, maintaining your legal status and understanding the importance of professional help, this guide has endeavored to illuminate every aspect of the D6 visa application process. So, with this knowledge at your fingertips, you are well equipped to embark on your family reunification journey in Portugal.

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About Via Portugal

Via Portugal is a leading immigration law firm that specializes in helping individuals and families navigate the complex process of moving to Portugal. With a team of experienced lawyers and immigration experts, Via Portugal provides customized solutions to meet each client's unique needs.

Why Choose VP Via Portugal?

• Knowledge 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 each client's situation is unique. Our lawyers take the time to listen to your goals and offer personalized advice and guidance throughout the process.
• Comprehensive Support: Via Portugal offers a wide range of services in addition to legal advice, including help with document preparation, property searches and relocation planning.
• Competitive Fees: We offer competitive fees and transparent pricing so you know exactly what to expect.
• Exceptional Customer Service: Our team is committed to providing exceptional customer service. We are responsive, attentive and always available to answer your questions.

Whether you're an entrepreneur looking to set up a business in Portugal, a retiree looking to enjoy the country's favorable tax regime, or a family looking to get together in Portugal, the Via Portugal is here to guide you every step of the way.

We offer all long-term visas in Portugal to suit your needs. Take a look.