Who qualifies and what changed under Lei 61/2025
The new Foreigners Law (Law no. 61/2025, of 22 October) amended the family reunification regime set out in Law 23/2007. Eligible family members generally include the spouse or de facto partner, minor or incapacitated children, dependent adult children in specific cases, and dependent parents.
The main change is a minimum prior-residence period for the sponsor before reunification can be requested, with important exceptions. The conditions that apply to your case are confirmed at the initial assessment.
Waiting times, transitional regime and exceptions (e.g. Golden Visa)
The law sets a prior-residence period for the sponsor, with important exceptions. Notably exempt are Golden Visa (ARI) holders, highly qualified professionals and EU Blue Card holders. As a rule it also does not apply to minor or incapacitated children.
AIMA's assessment period has been extended and the procedure may take several months. Transitional rules also apply to ongoing situations. Exact timelines are confirmed case by case — talk to us to review your situation. See also our Golden Visa service.
Income, accommodation and documentation requirements
Reunification requires proof of adequate means of subsistence, suitable accommodation and documents evidencing the family relationship (marriage or birth certificates or equivalents, duly legalised and translated).
Income thresholds and accommodation criteria are set by reference to official figures and confirmed case by case — we never quote amounts that are not in force. We handle document legalisation, translation and full file preparation. If the sponsor still needs to regularise their own residence, see the D7 Visa and the applicable tax regime.
Spouse, minor children, adult children and dependent parents
The spouse or de facto partner is eligible under the legal conditions. Minor children benefit from the most favourable regime. Adult children may be reunited when dependent and in specific situations (e.g. studying and in the sponsor's care). Dependent parents may be included on proof of economic dependency.
Each category has its own evidentiary requirements. We review your household and set the safest strategy for each family member.
Step-by-step AIMA process, timelines and costs
The process involves: (1) checking eligibility and the residence period; (2) gathering and legalising documents; (3) filing the application with AIMA; (4) following the assessment and any request for further information; (5) issuance of the family members' visas/residence permits.
Administrative fees are set officially and vary by act. Assessment timelines were extended under the new law. We provide the up-to-date fee and timeline framework at your assessment. For your family members' tax number, see NIF Express.
Rights of reunited family members (work, study, healthcare)
Reunited family members obtain a residence permit that generally grants the right to work, study and access the National Health Service on equal terms. We support the family's practical settling-in through Reside Portugal.
Impact on permanent residency and citizenship
The reunited family members' lawful residence time may count towards permanent residency and a Portuguese citizenship application, subject to the applicable legal requirements (including residence time and language knowledge). We plan the family's path with these goals in mind from the outset.