How do I apply for a D6 family reunion visa for my relatives?

When applying for a D6 family reunion visa, gather the required documentation and follow immigration office instructions.

Applying for a D6 family reunion visa in Portugal involves a series of steps to ensure that your relatives can join you in Portugal. Here is a detailed guide on how to apply for this visa:

1. Verify Eligibility:

  • Determine Eligibility: Confirm that you and your relatives meet the eligibility criteria for the D6 visa. Typically, this visa is for family members of individuals who hold a residence permit or visa in Portugal.

2. Gather Required Documents:

  • For You (the Sponsor):

    • Proof of Legal Status: A copy of your residence permit or visa in Portugal.
    • Proof of Financial Means: Documents showing you can support your relatives financially.
    • Proof of Accommodation: Evidence of suitable housing for your relatives, such as a rental agreement or property deed.
  • For Your Relatives (the Applicants):

    • Completed Application Form: Each relative must fill out a D6 visa application form.
    • Valid Passport: Passports with at least six months validity beyond the intended stay.
    • Passport-Sized Photos: Recent photographs meeting the specified requirements.
    • Proof of Relationship: Marriage certificates, birth certificates, or other documents proving the family relationship. These documents may need to be translated into Portuguese and notarized.
    • Proof of Accommodation: Evidence that they will have suitable housing in Portugal.
    • Proof of Health Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance covering their stay in Portugal.
    • Police Clearance Certificates: For applicants aged 16 or older, providing evidence of a clean criminal record. These certificates may need to be translated into Portuguese and notarized.

3. Prepare the Application Packet:

  • Compile Documents: Collect and organize all required documents for each relative applying for the visa. Ensure all documents are complete and meet the Portuguese authorities’ requirements.
  • Translate Documents: If necessary, have documents translated into Portuguese by a certified translator and notarized.

4. Submit the Application:

  • Visit the Portuguese Consulate/Embassy: Submit the completed visa application forms and supporting documents to the Portuguese consulate or embassy in your relative’s home country. Some countries might also offer the option to submit applications online or by mail.
  • Pay Visa Fees: Pay the applicable visa application fee. The fee amount may vary depending on the consulate or embassy.

5. Attend an Interview (if required):

  • Schedule and Attend an Interview: Some consulates or embassies may require an interview as part of the visa application process. Ensure your relatives are prepared for any potential interviews and bring all required documents.

6. Await Processing:

  • Visa Processing Time: Wait for the visa application to be processed. Processing times can vary, so check with the consulate or embassy for estimated times.
  • Track Application Status: If available, use any tracking services provided by the consulate or embassy to monitor the status of the visa application.

7. Receive the Visa:

  • Collect the Visa: Once approved, the visa will be issued and can be collected from the consulate or embassy. Make sure to review the visa details to ensure all information is correct.

8. Travel to Portugal:

  • Prepare for Travel: Ensure that your relatives have all necessary travel documents and are aware of any travel requirements or restrictions.
  • Arrival in Portugal: Upon arrival, your relatives should present their D6 visa at Portuguese immigration controls.

9. Register with Local Authorities:

  • Residence Registration: After arriving in Portugal, your relatives must register their residence with the local municipal office (Câmara Municipal) and apply for a residence permit, if required.

Summary

  1. Verify Eligibility: Confirm that you and your relatives meet the requirements for the D6 visa.
  2. Gather Documents: Collect all necessary documents for both you (the sponsor) and your relatives (the applicants).
  3. Prepare Application Packet: Organize and translate documents as needed.
  4. Submit Application: Apply at the Portuguese consulate or embassy and pay the required fees.
  5. Attend Interview: If required, attend an interview.
  6. Await Processing: Monitor the application status and processing time.
  7. Receive Visa: Collect the visa and ensure it is correct.
  8. Travel to Portugal: Prepare for travel and entry into Portugal.
  9. Register Residence: Register with local authorities upon arrival.

Conclusion

Applying for a D6 family reunion visa involves careful preparation and organization of documents. Ensuring that all requirements are met and following the application procedures will help facilitate a smooth process for bringing your relatives to Portugal. Consulting with immigration professionals can also provide additional guidance and support.