· 1 min read
Portugal Simplifies Family Reunification in 2022 Immigration Reform
Law 18/2022 eliminated SEF's prior opinion requirement for many family reunification categories, reducing delays and streamlining documentation and financial criteria.
On 25 August 2022, the publication of Law no. 18/2022 in the Diário da República brought important changes to Portugal’s family reunification rules. Under the reform, family reunification applications no longer require SEF’s prior opinion for many categories, reducing delays significantly.
The reform also clarified the rights of spouses, minor children, dependent adult children, and dependent parents. Documentation and financial criteria were streamlined, and processing times were prioritised for families with minor children.
For foreign residents from Brazil, the US, the UK, Canada and Israel, these changes make it easier for families to settle in Portugal and maintain unity. The simplified process supports integration and encourages long-term residence.
Official source: Diário da República, Law no. 18/2022, 25 August 2022 (https://dre.pt)