You may bring your family on a D2 Visa depending on the country's regulations. Some countries allow dependents to accompany the primary visa holder, while others require separate applications.
Yes, you can bring your family with you to Portugal on a D2 Visa. The D2 Visa allows for family reunification, meaning that eligible family members can join you in Portugal and reside with you during your stay. Here’s how family reunification works under the D2 Visa:
1. Eligible Family Members
- Spouse or Partner: You can bring your spouse or legally recognized partner to Portugal. If you are in a de facto relationship, you may need to provide proof of a stable and long-term relationship.
- Dependent Children: Your dependent children, including biological, adopted, or stepchildren, can accompany you to Portugal. This typically includes children under the age of 18, but children over 18 may also be eligible if they are financially dependent on you, such as those who are full-time students.
- Dependent Parents: In some cases, you may also be able to bring your dependent parents or your spouse’s dependent parents if they rely on you for financial support.
2. Family Reunification Process
- Applying for Family Reunification: Once your D2 Visa is granted, you can apply for family reunification through SEF (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras), the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service. This process involves submitting an application for each eligible family member, along with the required documentation.
- Required Documentation: The application for family reunification typically requires the following documents:
- Proof of family relationship (e.g., marriage certificate, birth certificates).
- Proof of financial means to support your family members.
- Proof of accommodation in Portugal that is suitable for your family size.
- Health insurance coverage for all family members.
- Visa Approval: Upon approval, your family members will receive a residence permit allowing them to live in Portugal with you. Their residence permit will usually be tied to the duration of your D2 Visa, meaning they can stay in Portugal as long as your visa is valid.
3. Rights of Family Members
- Residency Rights: Family members who join you in Portugal under the family reunification process are granted residency rights similar to yours. They can live, study, and access healthcare in Portugal.
- Work Rights: Your spouse or partner may also be granted the right to work in Portugal, depending on the specific conditions of their residence permit.
- Education for Children: Dependent children can attend public or private schools in Portugal. Public education is free for residents, and there are various options for schooling, including international schools that offer instruction in English or other languages.
4. Long-Term Residency and Citizenship
- Permanent Residency: After five years of continuous residency in Portugal, your family members may also apply for permanent residency, provided they meet the necessary requirements.
- Citizenship: If you apply for Portuguese citizenship after six years of residency, your family members may also become eligible to apply for citizenship, depending on their individual circumstances.
Summary
You can bring your family with you to Portugal on a D2 Visa through the family reunification process. Eligible family members, including your spouse or partner, dependent children, and dependent parents, can apply for residence permits that allow them to live, study, and work in Portugal. The family reunification process requires submitting the appropriate documentation and meeting certain requirements, but once approved, your family members can enjoy similar residency rights as you, with the possibility of applying for permanent residency and citizenship in the future.