If you are seeking to reunite with your family members in Romania, understanding the process of obtaining a long-stay visa for family reunification is essential. This article will guide you through the steps and requirements needed to successfully apply for a family reunification visa in Romania.
As stated in the Romanian legislation, family reunification refers to the process of allowing family members of a foreign national who is legally residing in Romania or of a Romanian citizen to enter and stay in the country, with the purpose of maintaining family unity. This right applies irrespective of when the family relationship was established. A Romania immigration lawyer can offer expert advice and support to both Romanian citizens and foreign nationals living in Romania who wish to bring their foreign family members to the country, ensuring that they meet the legal requirements and follow the correct procedures for family reunification.
Categories of foreigners eligible for family reunification with a Romanian citizen:
- Unmarried foreigners living with unmarried Romanian citizens, if they have at least one child together (partners)
- Children of the Romanian citizen, spouse, or partner, including adopted children, who are under 21, in education and under 26, or unable to support themselves due to medical reasons
- First-degree relatives in the ascending line of the Romanian citizen or their spouse
- The foreigner who is the parent of a Romanian citizen who is a minor, if the minor is dependent on them or there is an obligation to pay maintenance.
- Foreigners, family members of Romanian citizens, who provide proof of residence in another EU Member State in this capacity
The application for a long-stay visa for family reunification in Romania is made on the online portal "E-Visa" through the diplomatic missions and consular offices of Romania in the state where the foreigner resides. Required documents include:
- Marriage certificate or proof of kinship or partnership
- Medical insurance valid for the duration of the trip
- Criminal record certificate
- Passport
- Documents attesting residence in another EU Member State, if applicable
- Invitation for a visa to Romania given by the Romanian citizen (in some cases)
It is important to note that a long-stay visa for family reunification in Romania may be refused if the marriage is found to be one of convenience or if bigamy or polygamy is established.
Foreign citizens legally residing in Romania with a long-term residence permit or a temporary residence permit valid for a period of 1 year, as well as those holding an EU Blue Card, an ICT permit, a "mobile ICT" permit, or are refugees or beneficiaries of temporary protection, can also apply for family reunification in Romania. In this case, the sponsor (the foreigner residing in Romania) must first obtain the opinion of the General Inspectorate for Immigration by submitting an application and required documents.
Once the application for family reunification has been approved, the sponsor will forward the written communication to the family members, who will present it to the diplomatic mission or consular post within 60 days of the date of issue, together with the application for a long-stay visa for family reunification.
The long-stay visa for family reunification in Romania allows the foreigner to travel and stay in Romania for 90 days. During this time, the foreigner must apply for an extension of the right of residence and obtain a residence permit from the General Inspectorate for Immigration at least 30 days before the visa expires.
In conclusion, obtaining a family reunification visa in Romania requires careful planning and adherence to the legal requirements. Working with a reputable immigration lawyer Romania can help ensure a smooth process and increase the chances of a successful application.
