Family reunification
How family reunification works in Italy: which relatives can join you, income and housing requirements, the clearance, the visa and the residence permit.
Quick answer
Family reunification allows a legally resident non-EU citizen in Italy to bring over certain family members (generally a spouse, minor children and dependent parents). A clearance (nulla osta) is requested from the Sportello Unico per l’Immigrazione, subject to the income and housing requirements set by law.
The procedure spans two countries: the clearance is requested in Italy, while your relative applies for the visa abroad and then for the residence permit after arrival.
Economic and housing requirements are the most delicate part: they are verified with objective documents and can be updated periodically.
Who this guide is for
Non-EU citizens with an eligible residence permit who want their family members to join them in Italy.
What you need
- Residence permit of adequate type and duration
- Income documents meeting the required thresholds for the number of relatives
- Accommodation documents meeting the required standards
- Civil status records, translated and legalised
Step-by-step process
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1. Check which relatives can join you
The law specifies the eligible family members: check your situation against the official source.
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2. Check income and housing
Requirements depend on the number of relatives: gather income certificates, tax returns and housing documents.
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3. Request the clearance
The application is filed online with the Sportello Unico per l’Immigrazione at the Prefettura.
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4. Visa at the consulate
Once the clearance is issued, your relative applies for a family reunification visa.
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5. Residence permit in Italy
After arrival, apply for the family reasons residence permit using the postal kit.
Documents
- — Residence permit of the family member already in Italy
- — Income documents (income certificate, tax return)
- — Housing suitability certificate or other accommodation documents
- — Civil status records translated, legalised or apostilled
- — Passport of the reuniting family member
Timelines
| Stage | Typical timing | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Clearance | Months | Timing depends on the competent Sportello Unico. |
| Visa | Weeks to months | After the clearance is issued. |
Timelines shown are typical ranges reported by official sources or observed in practice: they are not guaranteed.
What happens next
- Prepare documents for the residence permit after arrival.
- Enrol children at school and update the anagrafe registration.
- Keep income and housing documents for future renewals.
Common mistakes
Mistake: Submitting income below the required thresholds.
Better approach: Check the current thresholds and document continuous, clear income.
Mistake: Incomplete proof of accommodation.
Better approach: Attach a registered tenancy agreement and, where required, the housing suitability certificate.
Related guides
Residence permit for family reasons
A permit for family reasons is tied to a family relationship with an Italian or EU citizen, or with a non-EU national lawfully res…
Housing documents
Accommodation is normally proven with a registered tenancy agreement, a hosting declaration or a statement from the property owner…
Income documents
Income is usually documented with the annual income certificate (modello CU), tax returns, payslips and contribution statements. T…
Residence card for EU family members
Non-EU family members of an EU citizen (or Italian citizen) exercising free movement can apply for a residence card, valid for fiv…
Official sources
This page is based on the official sources listed below. Open them to check the most recent information directly with the competent authority.
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Integration of Migrants Portal (opens in a new tab)
Ministero del Lavoro e delle Politiche Sociali — Ministero dell’Interno · in italiano
Portale interistituzionale con guide multilingue su permessi, ricongiungimento familiare, cittadinanza e integrazione.
Link last verified:
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Immigration Consolidation Act — Legislative Decree 286/1998 (in force) (opens in a new tab)
Normattiva — Presidenza del Consiglio dei Ministri · in italiano
Testo unico delle disposizioni concernenti la disciplina dell’immigrazione e norme sulla condizione dello straniero.
Link last verified:
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Portale Immigrazione (Immigration Portal) (opens in a new tab)
Ministero dell’Interno · in italiano
Il portale telematico del Ministero dell’Interno per la gestione delle istanze di soggiorno (kit postale, nulla osta, sportello unico).
Link last verified:
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Prefectures — Territorial Government Office (opens in a new tab)
Ministero dell’Interno · in italiano
Portale delle Prefetture, competenti su cittadinanza, sportelli unici per l’immigrazione e nulla osta.
Link last verified:
Important notice
The information published on ItalyDocsHub is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Procedures and requirements may change. For current information and advice regarding your specific situation, always consult the relevant official authority or a qualified professional.
- Last reviewed
- Content owner
- ItalyDocsHub Editorial Team