Background information
The possibility of family reunification applies to third-country nationals who have been granted refugee status (175). Consult your national law regarding other possibilities when the family reunification can be applied in addition to the refugee status.
Family reunification apply to members of the nuclear family (the spouse and the minor children). Consult your national law regarding other possible cases (176).
In case of a polygamous marriage, where a spouse already lives in the territory of a Member State, the Member State concerned must not authorise the family reunification of a further spouse (177).
An application needs to be submitted to the competent authorities together with documentary evidence of the family relationship. Where this cannot be provided, the Member States must take into account other evidence. A decision rejecting an application may not be based solely on the fact that documentary evidence is lacking (178).
Additional documents (proof of accommodation, sickness insurance and resources) may be requested, if the application is not submitted within a period of three months (179). Consult your national law regarding the competent authorities and additional documents and evidence.
(175) Article 3(1) and Chapter V of Council Directive 2003/86/EC of 22 September 2003 on the right to family reunification (OJ L 251, 3.10.2003) (family reunification directive).
(176) Recital 9 family reunification directive.
(177) Article 4(4) family reunification directive.
(178) Article 11 (2) family reunification directive.
(179) Article 12 family reunification directive.
Explain this messages to the applicant during the registration/lodging and personal interview:
- if the topic is raised by applicant, provide explanation regarding the family reunification, including when it is possible to apply and which family members can be reunited.
Explain these messages to the applicant during the notification stage:
- If refugee status is granted and, if applicable, the possibility to apply for family reunification, including information on:
- which family members qualify for family reunification;
- how to apply for the family reunification and where to receive further information;
- what documents needs to be submitted;
- possible time limits.