Family Reunion

If you are a researcher, you are entitled to request an 'entry clearance' (Nulla Osta) for your family. The permit of stay for your family will have the same duration of your permit.
Eligible family members for family reunion procedures are the folllowing:
- spouse not legally separated, of at least 18 years of age;
- children younger than 18 years of age ;
- dependent children over 18;
- dependent parents of the applicant for family reunion, if the applicant is the only offspring.

What documents do you need for family reunion?
Concerning accommodation, you will need a dwelling suitability certificate (certificato di idoneità alloggiativa), stating that your accommodation is suitable for you and your family to live in. You can apply for this certificate at the Technical Office of the Municipality. You have to provide two copies of this certificate (one in the original and a copy). Please note: if you are a guest, in addition you need your host to fill in the 'Modello T2' form (see the form).

Concerning your income, you need to give evidence that your income is legal and that it is not lower than the annual Italian social allowance (corresponding to € 5.577 for the year 2012).
Please note: for family reunion with two or more children younger than 14, or if you want members of your family other than those already reunited to join you, you have to give evidence that your income is legal and that it twice the annual Italian social allowance.

What is the procedure to apply for family reunion?

1.You have to fill in the 'Modello S' on-line form, available on the website of the Italian Ministry of Interior (the form is available only in Italian). You can go to a CAF/Patronato (Centre for Fiscal Assistance) that will assist you with filling it in. Click here for the CAF/Patronati Immigration Services in Trieste and Udine.

2. You will be called for an interview by the Immigration Office (Sportello Unico Immigrazione) at Prefettura, for a check of the documents you have already prepared (proof of accommodation and income).

3. The entry clearance (Nulla Osta) takes up to 180 days to be ready. Once you have received it, your family has 6 months to apply for the visa at the Italian diplomatic representation (Consulate or Embassy) in the country they live in.
Note: Your family members can apply for a visa directly at the Italian Diplomatic Representation (Consulate or Embassy) in the country they live in, if they do not received the Entry clearance after 180 day. They just need to provide the office with a copy of the application form submitted and the enclosed documents.

4. Once in Italy, they must apply for a permit of stay for family reunion within 8 days from their arrival.
Please note: to apply for a permit of stay and a tax identification code, your family need to go to the Immigration Office at Prefetura.