Often referred to as the Family Reunification Visa, the D6 Visa allows family members of foreign nationals who are legally residing in Portugal to join them.
If you have come to Portugal on another visa, like the D7 or the D2, 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 in the country.
Applications for family reunion visas can only be made by someone who holds Portuguese residence permit and who 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 this visa category, ensuring a seamless application process.
Below, you’ll find the most up-to-date information on the D6 Visa Portugal, including eligibility criteria, the documents required, step-by-step application procedures, and more.
Introduction to the D6 Visa Portugal
What is the D6 Visa?
The D6 Visa is a residence permit that allows non-EU family members of Portuguese residents to join them and become residents in the country.
If you’re on a two-year residency permit, for instance, your spouse or partner would be granted a permit for the same two-year period.
However, if you have a permanent residence permit, the D6 Visa will be valid for up to two years. This permit can also be renewed and extended.
The non-EU family members will also have the same rights as Portuguese nationals in terms of employment, education, healthcare, social security, and tax benefits.
D6 Visa holders have the chance to apply for Portuguese residency after a five-year period of living in Portugal.
Who can you bring to Portugal?
The D6 Visa is typically intended for family members such as spouses, minor children, and dependent parents of foreign nationals who hold valid residence permits in Portugal.
Eligibility Criteria for the D6 Visa
To qualify for the Portuguese D6 Family Visa, foreign nationals must meet a few criteria.
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 children of the resident’s partner.
- Children over 18 who are dependent on the main applicant or their spouse/partner. They will also need to be single and be studying in 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.
Key Benefits of the D6 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 opportunities
Holders of the D6 Visa can enjoy all the benefits that come with having Portuguese residency, making the most of what life in Portugal has to offer.
They are allowed to work and pursue educational opportunities in the country.
Access to the national health system
Applicants can enroll in the national health system of Portugal and enjoy a high-quality and affordable healthcare system.
Pathway to permanent residence permit & Portuguese citizenship
One of the main benefits of the D6 Visa is the prospect of permanency. After holding this visa and residing in Portugal for five years, individuals become eligible to apply for a permanent residence permit and obtain Portuguese citizenship.
Please note that acquiring citizenship usually involves passing a basic test in Portuguese language and culture.
Freedom of movement in the Schengen Area
The D6 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
NHR tax regime eligibility
The D6 Visa offers several tax benefits to qualified individuals. You may be eligible to apply for Portugal’s Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime, for instance.
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 some other requirements.
D6 Visa Application Process
Step-by-step guide to applying for the D6 Visa
The D6 Visa application process begins through the initiative of the resident in Portugal (the main applicant).
Note that the resident must be legal in Portugal, whether through a temporary or permanent residency status.
They must apply for family reunification at the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras – SEF).
In case the family member is residing outside of Portugal, they may apply for a D6 Visa at the Portuguese Consulate or the VFS of your jurisdiction.
SEF will review this initial application within 60 days. Once they make a decision, they send a written statement to the application and notify the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MNE).
This means that the family member can apply for the D6 Visa from outside Portugal, facilitating a legal and smooth transition.
After the family member enters Portugal on the D6 Visa, they must go SEF to register as a resident of Portugal 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 checklist: the required documents
The following documents are required for the application:
- Passport 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
- A valid travel insurance covering necessary medical expenses, including emergency assistance and repatriation
- Form authorizing access to Portuguese criminal record consultation by 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.
- Proof of sufficient resources to meet the needs of the family member. Your income must be equal to or greater than the Portuguese minimum wage (€760 per month in 2023), and you also have at least 50% more (€380) to support a second adult.
- Notification of Family Reunification approval issued by SEF
- Proof of the family ties invoked: Birth 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 called for an interview if desired by the Consulate of Portugal.
Health insurance policy
It should include comprehensive coverage for all necessary medical expenses that may arise.
Once the 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).
The specifics of this eligibility could vary depending on your personal circumstances.
Portugal D6 Visa processing time and fees
The visa fee is €90.
After SEF approves the reunification request, the processing time for the visa is 60 days.
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 temporary residence permit of the main applicant.
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
Within four months, the D6 Visa holder will get a temporary residence permit from SEF. This permit can be renewed after a period of two years (the first renewal) and then after three years (the second renewal).
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.
Please note that acquiring citizenship usually involves passing a basic test in Portuguese language and culture.
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 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.
How long is the D6 Visa valid for?
The visa is valid for 120 days.
How long does it take to get a D6 Visa in Portugal?
Once the SEF approves the family reunification request, the processing time for the visa is 60 days.
Who is eligible to apply for a D6 Visa in Portugal?
This visa is designed for spouses, minor children, and in some cases, dependent adult children and first-degree dependent relatives of residents in Portugal.
Can I work in Portugal with a D6 Visa?
Yes, you can work in Portugal with a D6 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 bring my family members on a D6 Visa to Portugal?
Yes, the D6 Family Reunification Visa serves as a permit for family members or partners of individuals residing in Portugal, enabling them to live together in the country.
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, which is 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 SEF appointment must be made by the main applicant in Portugal. After the family reunification request is approved by SEF, the family member applies for the D6 Visa at the Portuguese Consulate or VFS in your jurisdiction.
Can I convert my D6 Visa to a different type of visa in Portugal?
It is not possible to switch to a different visa. The applicant must start a new process for the appropriate type of visa.
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. SEF wants to make sure that this person (or persons) will not become a burden on the Portuguese state.
