14 Permesso Coesione Familiare 1920x640px

Residence permit for family reasons: apply in Italy through the family cohesion process

The family cohesion residence permit: what it is, who can get it, and how

Family cohesion: requirements to apply directly from Italy

As part of family reunification procedures, Article 30 of Legislative Decree 286/98 provides for a special procedure that allows non-EU family members of a non-EU citizen already legally residing under another title to apply for and obtain a residence permit for family reasons directly in Italy.

Who is entitled to apply for it?

A family member of a non-EU citizen who is already resident in Italy and holds a residence permit of not less than one year's duration issued for employment or self-employment reasons, or for asylum, study, ICT posting or contracting, religious or family reasons, or, regardless of duration, for investors, EU Blue Card and EU ICT, is entitled to apply for it.

To allow entry, the family member already residing in Italy must prove:

·      to hold a valid residence permit

·      the availability of suitable housing by obtaining a certificate of housing suitability from the Municipality where the housing is located

·      the possession of sufficient income for maintenance

The procedure in a nutshell

Here is what to do to apply for a visa and residence permit through the family cohesion process:

1.    the family member who is already a resident must have obtained a residence permit, registration with the Municipality and a certificate of housing suitability

2.    the family member must enter Italy on a Schengen visa or otherwise as a tourist if exempt from the visa requirement under the country of which they are a citizen

3.    the family member must, once in Italy and before the expiration of the permitted period of stay as a tourist, apply for a residence permit via postal kit

4.    the family member must attend a fingerprinting appointment at the local Police office

5.    the family member must pick up the residence permit at the Police office when ready

Benefits of obtaining a residence permit through the family cohesion process

This process is simpler than family reunification and definitely shortens the waiting time: once all the documentation is ready, it is sufficient to enter Italy legally in order to apply for a residence permit for family reasons. The permit for family reasons is issued with the same duration as the permit of the family member already residing in Italy.

Finally, by proving presence in Italy for at least 5 years, residence and a reasonable income, it is possible to apply for an EU long-term residence permit and, upon reaching 10 years of residence in Italy, proceed to apply for Italian citizenship by residence.

Your Way to Italy: our assistance

Our team is available to provide support and assistance throughout the process! Contact us to book your first consultation with us and to start the process of family cohesion! #YourWaytoItaly



The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances

News
News from our blog

Keep yourself updated by reading the most recent news and our articles on the most important topics on Italian immigration and citizenship law

Visas and residence permits
Citizenship
Tax, legal and more
Integration Agreement Residence Permit Italy 600 X 400 Px
Visas and residence permits
The Integration Agreement: who is required to sign it and what is it for?
The article explains how Italy’s Integration Agreement works—a commitment between the State and non-EU foreign citizens who enter the country. It involves obligations like learning Italian, respecting the law, and engaging in civic life. In return, the State provides support and services.
Anagrafe Registration In Italy 600 X 400 Px
Visas and residence permits
Foreign nationals and registration in the Civil Registry: FAQ
Registration in the civil registry (Anagrafe) is a key procedure for foreign citizens who wish to reside permanently in Italy. The process outlines its legal and practical importance, who can apply, the requirements, the steps involved, and special cases such as international protection or the birth of children in the country.
Schengen Visa Extension 600 X 400 Px
Visas and residence permits
Is it possible to extend your stay in Italy after the expiration of a Schengen tourist visa?
It is possible to extend a stay in Italy beyond the limit of a Schengen tourist visa, but only in exceptional cases such as force majeure, humanitarian reasons, or serious personal issues. The request must be submitted to the Questura with proper documentation. Staying without authorization after the visa expires may result in fines, expulsion, and a re-entry ban.
1 / 33
Sign up to our newsletter!

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.