Portugal Family Reunification Visa for Bangladeshi Nationals

The Portugal Family Reunification Visa is designed to allow Bangladeshi nationals residing legally in Portugal to bring their immediate family members to live with them. This visa is suitable for those holding valid residence permits in Portugal, such as students, workers, researchers, or entrepreneurs, who wish to reunite with their family members. The family reunification process enables eligible family members to reside in Portugal, work, and access healthcare and education, ensuring a stable family environment.

Key Features of the Portugal Family Reunification Visa

1. Eligibility Criteria:

   • The applicant (the family member residing in Portugal) must hold a valid residence permit or long-term visa.
   • The applicant must demonstrate financial stability and the ability to support the family members in Portugal.
   • The applicant must have suitable accommodation for the incoming family members.
   • The family members must be the applicant’s immediate family members as defined under Portuguese immigration law.

2. Eligible Family Members: The following family members can apply for reunification under this visa:

   • Spouse or Partner: Legally married spouse or registered partner.
   • Children: Minor children (under 18 years of age), including biological and adopted children.
   • Dependent Adult Children: Adult children who are financially dependent or enrolled in an educational institution.
   • Parents or Parents-in-Law: Parents or parents-in-law, provided they are dependent on the applicant.
   • Minor Siblings: Minor siblings of the applicant who are under their legal guardianship.

3. Documents Required:

   • Valid Passport: A passport valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay.
   • Proof of Residence Permit: Copy of the applicant’s valid residence permit or long-term visa in Portugal.
   • Proof of Family Relationship: Birth certificates, marriage certificates, or adoption papers, translated into Portuguese and authenticated.
   • Proof of Financial Means: Bank statements, salary slips, or other financial documents demonstrating the applicant’s capacity to support the family members. The applicant must show that their income is at least equivalent to the minimum wage in Portugal, plus 50% of the minimum wage for each adult family member and 30% for each child.
   • Proof of Accommodation: Documentation proving the applicant has suitable housing in Portugal, such as a rental agreement or property deed.
   • Health Insurance: Health insurance coverage for the family members, valid in Portugal.
   • Criminal Record Certificate: A police clearance certificate from Bangladesh (and any other country where the family members have resided for more than one year).
   • Personal Statement: A letter from the applicant explaining the purpose of the family reunification and their intention to provide for the family members.

4. Application Process:

   • Step 1: Gather Required Documents: Collect all necessary documents for both the applicant and the family members, ensuring translations and legalizations are complete.
   • Step 2: Submit the Application: The applicant must apply for family reunification at the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service (SEF) in Portugal. The family members cannot apply directly from Bangladesh; the process must be initiated by the family member already residing in Portugal.
   • Step 3: Approval by SEF: If SEF approves the family reunification request, the family members will receive a pre-approval document.
   • Step 4: Apply for a Family Reunification Visa at the Portuguese Embassy: Once the pre-approval is issued, the family members must apply for a Family Reunification Visa at the Portuguese Embassy or Consulate in Bangladesh, using the SEF pre-approval as supporting documentation.
   • Step 5: Attend the Visa Interview: Family members may be required to attend an interview at the embassy to confirm the relationship and intention to reunite.
   • Step 6: Obtain the Visa: If approved, family members receive a long-term visa (usually valid for four months) to enter Portugal.
   • Step 7: Apply for Residence Permit in Portugal: Upon arrival, the family members must schedule an appointment with SEF to obtain a residence permit, which is typically granted for the same duration as the primary applicant’s permit.

5. Visa Duration and Validity:

   • The Family Reunification Visa is usually granted for four months initially, allowing the family members to enter Portugal.
   • Upon arrival and successful application for a residence permit, the permit is generally valid for the same duration as the residence permit of the primary family member in Portugal.
   • After five years of continuous legal residence, family members may apply for permanent residency.

6. Rights and Benefits:

   • Family members receive residency rights similar to the primary applicant.
   • Right to Work: Spouses and adult children are allowed to work or engage in self-employment activities.
   • Access to Healthcare and Education: Family members have access to Portugal’s public healthcare system and educational institutions.
   • Social Security Benefits: Family members are eligible for social security benefits, provided they meet the contribution requirements.
   • Pathway to Citizenship: After five years of continuous residence, family members may apply for permanent residency and, after six years, for Portuguese citizenship.

7. Challenges and Considerations:

   • Proof of Relationship: Establishing the legitimacy of the family relationship can be complex, especially for non-immediate family members.
   • Financial Requirements: Applicants must demonstrate sufficient income and suitable accommodation, which can be challenging for students or those on lower salaries.
   • Processing Time: The family reunification process can be time-consuming, with application reviews sometimes taking several months.

8. Taxation:

   • Family members are not subject to special tax obligations unless they work or earn income in Portugal.
   • If family members choose to work, they will be subject to the same tax rates and obligations as Portuguese residents.

Conclusion

The Portugal Family Reunification Visa offers Bangladeshi nationals an opportunity to bring their loved ones to Portugal, ensuring a stable and supportive family environment. While the process can be complex and requires thorough documentation, the benefits are significant, allowing family members to live, work, and integrate into Portuguese society. Proper planning and understanding of the requirements can help streamline the application process and facilitate a smooth transition for the entire family. If you need assistance with specific documentation or further guidance on the process, feel free to ask!