Often referred to as the Family Reunification Visa, the D6 Visa allows family members of foreign nationals legally residing in the country to join them in Portugal.
If you have come to Portugal on another visa, like the D7 Visa or the D2 Visa, or have settled status as an EU citizen, you can apply for a D6 to bring your spouse, partner, or family to live with you.
Applications for family reunion visas can only be made by someone who holds a Portuguese residence permit and is already legally living in the country.
The process may involve demonstrating the relationship, proving they have the financial means to support the family members, and meeting other eligibility criteria.
We’ve created this comprehensive guide to help you understand the Family Reunification Visa, ensuring a seamless application process so you and your loved ones can start a new life in Portugal.
Below, you’ll find the most up-to-date information on Portugal’s D6 Visa, including eligibility criteria, required documents, step-by-step application procedures, and more.
What is the D6 Family Reunification Visa Portugal?
The Family Reunification Visa (D6) is a residence permit that allows non-EU family members of Portuguese residents to join them and become residents in the country.
With the Family Reunification Visa, any family member you bring to Portugal will receive a residence permit valid for the same duration as yours.
If you’re on a two-year residency permit, your spouse or partner would be granted a residence permit for the same two-year period.
However, the D6 Visa will be valid for up to two years if you have a permanent residence permit. This permit can also be renewed and extended if the family ties persist.
The non-EU family members will also have the same rights as Portuguese nationals regarding employment, education, healthcare, social security, and tax benefits.
D6 Visa holders can apply for Portuguese residency after a five-year period of living in Portugal.
Who is eligible for the D6 Visa in Portugal?
Non-EU citizens with valid residence permits may apply to bring family members to Portugal through the Portuguese D6 Family Visa. The following family members can get a D6 Visa in Portugal:
- Spouses or partners recognized by the law.
- Dependent children (including adopted children), as well as the dependent children of the resident’s partner.
- Children over 18 who are dependent on the main applicant or their spouse/partner. They must also be single and study at a Portuguese educational institution.
- First-degree ascendents who are a direct line relative of the resident or respective spouse and are dependent on them.
- Minor siblings, provided they are dependent on the resident.
Once the two-year residence permit period expires, family members are granted the same permanent residence type as other foreign permanent residents.
Key Benefits of the D6 Family Reunion Visa
Work and
study opportunities
Access to the national health system
Pathway to residence and citizenship
Travel within the Schengen
Area
Eligibility
for NHR tax
regime
Work and study: Holders of the Family Reunion Visa can enjoy all the benefits of Portuguese residency and make the most of life in Portugal. Family members are allowed to work and pursue educational opportunities in the country.
Access to the national health system: Applicants can enroll in Portugal’s national health system and enjoy high-quality and affordable healthcare.
Pathway to permanent residency: One of the main benefits of the Family Reunion Visa is the prospect of permanency. After holding a Portuguese family visa and residing in Portugal for five years, individuals can apply for a permanent residence permit and obtain Portuguese citizenship. Portuguese citizens can enjoy several benefits, such as the right to live, work, and study anywhere in the European Union.
Freedom of movement: The Family Reunion Visa allows holders to travel to the 27 countries in the Schengen Area without additional visas.
Eligibility for Portugal’s Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime: The Family Reunion Visa offers several tax benefits to qualified individuals. For instance, you may be eligible to apply for Portugal’s Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime. You qualify if you have not been part of the NHR regime before and have not been a Portuguese resident in the last five years, amongst other requirements.
Is NHR ending?
The State Budget Law for 2024 determined the end of the NHR regime from 1st January 2024. However, certain individuals can still apply up until 31st March 2025, and the scheme is being replaced by the Tax Incentive for Scientific Research and Innovation, which has now been implemented. To learn more, please refer to Is The Portugal NHR Ending?
Portugal D6 Visa Requirements
The D6 requirements are less stringent than Portugal’s Golden Visa or the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa, but there are still some checks and balances that applicants must fulfill.
- The family member residing in Portugal (the sponsor) must have a valid residence permit or Portuguese citizenship.
- The sponsor’s income must be equal to or greater than the Portuguese minimum wage (€820.00 per month in 2024), and also have at least 50% more (€410) to support a second adult.
- Proof of adequate housing in Portugal that can accommodate the family member(s) is required.
- The applicant must be a direct family member of the sponsor.
- For children over 18, they must be studying in Portugal and remain dependent on the sponsor.
Health insurance policy
The D6 Family Reunification Visa applicants in Portugal must provide proof of valid health insurance. It should include comprehensive coverage for all necessary medical expenses that may arise. Once the family visa applicant becomes a legal resident of Portugal through the family reunification process, they will be eligible to benefit from the Portuguese National Health Service (Serviço Nacional de Saúde).
D6 Visa Application Process
Step-by-step guide to applying for the Family Reunification Visa
The D6 Visa application process begins through the initiative of the resident in Portugal (the main applicant), who must be legal in Portugal through temporary or permanent residency status. They must apply for family reunification at the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service (AIMA).
If the family member is already in Portugal with legal entry, they can apply for the family reunification residence permit directly with AIMA. If the family member resides outside of Portugal, they may apply for a D6 Visa at the Portuguese Consulate or the VFS of your jurisdiction.
AIMA will review this initial application within 60 days. Once they decide, they send a written statement to the application and notify the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MNE). This means the family member can apply for the D6 Visa outside Portugal, facilitating a legal and smooth transition.
After the family member enters Portugal on the D6 Visa, they must go to AIMA to register as residents and receive a permit to stay there long-term. While the Family Reunification Visa is being processed, the family member can travel to Portugal on another visa, such as the Schengen Tourist Visa.
Portugal D6 Visa required documents
The following documents are required for the Family Reunion Visa application:
- Valid passport (it must be valid for an additional three months following the duration of the intended stay)
- Two identical passport photographs, up-to-date and in good condition, allowing proper identification
- Copy of previous passport, if applicable
- Valid travel insurance covering necessary medical expenses, including emergency assistance and repatriation
- Form authorizing access to Portuguese criminal record consultation by AIMA (formerly SEF)
- Criminal record certificate from the applicant’s country of origin and country of residency for over one year (the Police Clearance certificate is only considered valid up to three months after the date of issuance)
- Notification of Family Reunification approval issued by AIMA
- Proof of the family ties invoked: Birth certificate/adoption certificate/marriage certificate or proof of de facto union in the case of a partner who is not a spouse.
- Minors or unfit persons require travel authorization from the parents (both parents are required to sign the letter authorizing the minor to travel) or legal guardians.
Documents that are in a language other than Portuguese will need to be accompanied by a certified translation to be approved by the Portuguese authorities. Other documents may be required. The applicant could also be interviewed by the Consulate of Portugal if desired.
Portugal D6 Visa fee
The family visa fee is €90.
Portugal D6 visa processing time
After AIMA approves the reunification request, the Portugal D6 Visa processing time is 60 days.
D6 Visa Renewal and Extensions
D6 Visa Validity
If the Portuguese resident has a temporary visa or a temporary residence permit, family members will receive a family reunification visa valid for the same duration as the main applicant’s temporary residence permit. However, if the Portuguese has a permanent residence permit, you will get a residency permit valid for two years.
After the initial two-year period, family members can obtain an independent residence permit if the family tie persists.
How to renew the D6 Visa
The D6 Visa holder will get a temporary Portuguese residence permit from AIMA within four months. This permit can be renewed after two years (the first renewal) and three years (the second).
Applying for Portuguese Citizenship with a D6 Visa
After five years of legally authorized residence, you can request a long-term residence permit and Portuguese citizenship. Acquiring citizenship usually involves passing a basic test in Portuguese language and culture.
If you’re interested in becoming a Portuguese citizen, the good news is that Portugal allows dual citizenship, which means you wouldn’t have to renounce any existing citizenships you have (provided that those countries also permit dual citizenship).
Successful D6 Visa Experience: How We Can Help
At Global Citizen Solutions, we are dedicated to guiding you along the right path toward obtaining your D6 Visa and family reunification residence permit. With over 50 years of combined experience in immigration, law, and investment, we provide you with the finest immigration service possible.
Our multi-skilled team of immigration lawyers will ensure your application is successful by managing the process from start to finish. The process is bolstered by our innovative Be System®, providing real-time visa updates, and our trusted lawyers ensure your application goes through smoothly.
Aside from meticulous visa application management, Global Citizen Solutions has a locally rooted real estate division, Goldcrest, which provides a seamless transition to your new home. With a singular point of contact, we navigate the entire process, handling bureaucratic intricacies, legal matters, and property searches precisely.
Global Citizen Solutions has a global presence and an experienced team, and we invite you to get in touch with us. Let us understand your aspirations and guide you toward realizing your goal of becoming a global citizen.
Whether you seek Portugal homes for sale or prime investment opportunities, we’re here to assist you. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions About the D6 Portugal Visa
What is a D6 Visa for Portugal?
The D6 Visa (also called family reunion visa or family reunification visa) is a permit for family members or partners of individuals residing in Portugal, enabling them to live together in the country. Non-EU citizens who have a valid residence permit in Portugal may apply to bring their family members to join them in Portugal.
What are the D6 Family Visa requirements?
The D6 Visa is a family reunification visa that grants family members residency in Portugal. To be eligible for the D6 Visa, you must have:
- A completed D6 Visa application form for Portugal
- A valid passport with at least six months left before expiration.
- A certificate that proves your family relations.
- Passport photos that are in line with Portugal’s visa photo requirements.
- Proof of legal residency of the family member in Portugal.
How long is the D6 Visa valid for?
The family visa is valid for 120 days.
How long does it take to get Family Reunification Visa in Portugal?
Once AIMA approves the request, the processing time for the family reunification visa processing time is 60 days.
Who is eligible to apply for a D6 Visa in Portugal?
If you have a family member who is a temporary or permanent resident in Portugal, you can apply for a family reunification visa to join them as a resident.
The family visa is designed for family members such as spouses, minor children, and, in some cases, dependent adult children and first-degree dependent relatives of Portuguese residents.
Can I work in Portugal with a D6 Visa?
Yes, you can work in Portugal with a D6 Visa. You’d be free to seek employment without needing sponsorship for another visa.
Can I study in Portugal with a D6 Visa?
Yes, you can study in Portugal with a D6 Visa.
Is health insurance mandatory for the D6 Visa?
Yes, applicants for the D6 Family Reunification Visa in Portugal are obligated to provide proof of valid travel health insurance.
Can I apply for permanent residency or citizenship with a D6 Visa?
Applicants for permanent residence and Portuguese citizenship must have held a temporary residence permit and lived in Portugal for at least five years.
Are there any language requirements for the D6 Visa application?
No, there are no Portuguese language requirements for this visa.
Can I extend my D6 Visa in Portugal?
No, this visa can’t be extended. However, once in Portugal, the visa holder will get a temporary residence permit card that’s valid for two years. This permit can be renewed.
Can I travel within the Schengen Area with a D6 Visa?
Yes, you can travel to the 27 countries in the Schengen Area with the D6 Visa.
What happens if my D6 Visa application is denied?
The Portuguese Consulate will issue a rejection proposal subject to challenge and appeal.
Can I apply for a D6 Visa from within Portugal, or do I need to apply from my home country?
The AIMA appointment must be made by the principal applicant in Portugal. After AIMA approves the family reunification request, the family member applies for the D6 Visa at the consulate or VFS in your jurisdiction.
What are the financial requirements of the D6 Visa?
You will need to prove that you have sufficient income to support any family member that you’re bringing over. AIMA wants to make sure that this person (or persons) will not become a burden on the Portuguese state.
Can I apply for the D6 Visa at the Portuguese embassy or consulate?
You can apply for the D6 from your home country at the Portuguese Consulate or VFS within their jurisdiction (not the Portuguese Embassy).
Can I renew the family visa in Portugal?
The D6 Visa allows family members to stay in the country for two years. After the two years, holders of the D6 have the right to extend it, provided that the family tie persists. After living in Portugal for a continuous period of 5 years, they can apply for permanent residency.
