Family members can stay in Italy for up to two years with a Family Reunion Visa, which is renewable based on the sponsor's legal status.
Family members can stay in Italy with a Family Reunion Visa for up to two years, depending on the sponsor’s legal status and the conditions of the visa. The duration of stay is tied to the validity of the sponsor’s permit or residency status. Here's how long your family members can stay and the renewal process.
1. Initial Duration of Stay:
When your family members are granted a Family Reunion Visa, they are allowed to stay in Italy for an initial period of up to two years. This duration is typically linked to the sponsor’s legal residency status in Italy, whether they are an Italian citizen, a non-EU national with permanent residency, or an EU national. The Family Reunion Visa is granted for the same length of time as the sponsor’s residence permit or visa, ensuring that the sponsor can support their family for the duration of their stay.
2. Residency Permit (Permesso di Soggiorno):
After arriving in Italy, your family members must apply for a residency permit (Permesso di Soggiorno) within eight days. This permit will be issued for the same duration as the Family Reunion Visa, allowing them to live in Italy legally. If their family members are dependent on the sponsor (e.g., children, spouse), the residency permit is typically tied to the sponsor's permit status.
3. Renewal of the Family Reunion Visa:
Once the initial period of stay expires, your family members can renew their residency permit and remain in Italy, as long as the sponsor’s residence status remains valid. The renewal process is typically straightforward, provided the sponsor continues to meet the necessary requirements for residence in Italy (such as income and accommodation). The renewal application can be submitted to the local immigration office (Questura) or other relevant authorities.
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Valid Sponsor Status:
If the sponsor remains legally in Italy (e.g., continues to hold a valid work permit, permanent residency, or Italian citizenship), the family members’ residency permits will generally be renewed for additional periods of up to two years. -
Dependent Family Members:
The residency of dependent family members is usually tied to the sponsor’s. If the sponsor changes their immigration status or their residence permit expires, the family members may also be affected, and their stay in Italy may need to be reassessed.
4. Long-Term Residency and Permanent Status:
If your family members live in Italy for a certain number of years, they may become eligible for permanent residency. Generally, after five years of continuous legal residence, family members may apply for long-term resident status in Italy, which grants them the right to stay indefinitely without needing to renew their residency permit every two years.
5. Exceptions and Special Circumstances:
In some cases, the duration of stay may be affected by specific circumstances. For example, if your family members are granted a visa for humanitarian or health-related reasons, the duration of stay may differ. Similarly, if the sponsor’s legal status changes, such as a change in employment or immigration status, this could impact the length of stay for the family members.
6. Conclusion:
Family members can stay in Italy with a Family Reunion Visa for up to two years, with the possibility of renewal based on the sponsor’s legal status. Once the initial visa period expires, they can apply for renewal and continue living in Italy as long as the sponsor remains legally in the country. After five years of residence, they may also be eligible for permanent residency.