Reunite with Your Family in Italy: A Comprehensive Guide to Family Reunification

Being separated from loved ones can be challenging. If you legally reside in Italy, you can reunite with your family through the family reunification process. This guide will help you understand the requirements, eligibility criteria, and application steps to bring your family members to Italy.

Understanding Family Reunification in Italy

Family reunification allows foreigners legally residing in Italy to bring their family members to the country. This right is protected under international human rights law, which recognizes the importance of family unity. By obtaining a family reunification visa, your family can join you in Italy.

Eligibility for Family Reunification

To qualify for family reunification in Italy, you must:

• Hold a valid residence permit or residence card in Italy for at least one year, or have requested renewal within the prescribed terms.
• Have adequate housing that meets local authority requirements.
• Have sufficient income to support your family members, as required by Italian law.

Family Members Eligible for Reunification

The following family members can reunite with you in Italy:

• Spouse: Your spouse must be over 18 and not legally separated from you.
• Civil partners: If you are in a civil union, your partner is eligible for reunification.
• Minor children: Your children under 18, including those of your spouse or born out of wedlock, can join you if they are unmarried and the other parent consents.
• Adult dependent children: Your children over 18 who cannot support themselves due to serious health issues qualify for reunification.
• Dependent parents: Your parents can join you if they depend on you for support, have no other children in their home country, or are over 65 and cannot be supported by their other children.

Step-by-Step Application Process

The family reunification process involves two main steps:

1. Obtaining the Nulla Osta (clearance): As the legally residing foreigner in Italy, you must apply for the Nulla Osta at the Single Desk for Immigration (Sportello Unico per l’Immigrazione) of the competent Prefecture. You can submit this application online using your SPID digital identity.
   • Gather required documents, including proof of adequate housing and income, and a copy of your residence permit.
   • Pay the €16.00 revenue stamp fee.
   • Attend your appointment at the Single Desk for Immigration and provide the necessary documents.
2. Applying for the Family Reunification Visa: After obtaining the Nulla Osta, send it to your family member(s) in their country of residence. They will need to apply for a family reunification visa at the Italian diplomatic representation.
   • Your family member(s) must submit their visa application, along with the Nulla Osta and other required documents, such as a valid passport and photographs.
   • Pay the visa application fee, typically around €116.
   • Attend the visa interview at the Italian embassy or consulate.

Once your family member(s) receive the visa, they can travel to Italy. Within 8 days of their arrival, contact the Single Desk for Immigration to start the procedure for issuing a residence permit for family reasons.

Important Considerations

• Processing Times: The application for the Nulla Osta can take up to 90 days. The visa application process may vary depending on the embassy or consulate.
• Renewal of Residence Permits: The family member’s residence permit will be valid for the same duration as yours. Both of you must renew your permits 60 days before expiration.
• Enhanced Protection: Those who reunite with family members benefit from enhanced protection against removal from Italy.

Conclusion

Family reunification is a vital right that allows legally residing foreigners in Italy to bring their loved ones together. By understanding the eligibility criteria, gathering the necessary documents, and following the application process, you can navigate family reunification successfully. Start the process early, as it can take time. With patience and attention to detail, you can soon be reunited with your family in Italy, creating a strong foundation for your lives together in this beautiful country.