Last update: July 2026
Family reunification: a fundamental right to bring your non-EU spouse to live with you.
The Legal Framework: Italian Immigration Law.
Family reunification in Italy is governed by the “Testo Unico sull’Immigrazione”, specifically under Decreto Legislativo No. 286/1998.
This legislation outlines the rights and procedures for non-EU family members of EU citizens to join their spouses in Italy.
The Process: Step-by-Step
1. Application for Nulla Osta (Authorization)
The first step in the family reunification process is obtaining the “Nulla Osta per ricongiungimento familiare” from the Immigration Office (Sportello Unico per l’Immigrazione) at the competent Prefettura.
This authorization is mandatory for the non-EU spouse to apply for an entry visa that allow the future spouse to have a job, a formal residency and benefit of the Italian welfare.
- Where to Apply: The application must be submitted to the Sportello Unico per l’Immigrazione at the Prefecture corresponding to the residence of the EU citizen resident in Italy. It is not necessary that the EU citizen is Italian as long as they have a formal residency in Italy.
- Required Documentation: The application process begins after the EU citizen has established residence in Italy and has entered into a civil marriage with a non-EU citizen.
A notarized power of attorney might be required if the application is submitted by a representative or by the EU spouse..
2. Eligibility Requirements
Minimum Income
The couple must demonstrate a sufficient annual income to support themselves.
Adequate Housing
Proof of suitable accommodation is required. The dwelling must meet specific standards, including minimum surface area and sanitary conditions.
3. Document Submission
The necessary documents include:
- Proof of income (such as tax returns or employment contracts). If the income of the parties concerned comes from foreign employers or from sources of income related to foreign entities or clients, it will be possible to proceed with the legal translation and legalization of such documentation
- Evidence of adequate housing (rental agreements or property ownership documents).
- Marriage certificate.
Once the documents are submitted, the Immigration Office will review them and schedule an appointment for the EU citizen to verify the documentation.
4. Issuance of the Nulla Osta
If the application is approved, the “Nulla Osta per ricongiugimento familiare” will be issued.
This document is essential for the non-EU spouse to apply for a visa at the Italian Consulate in their home country. The “Nulla Osta per ricongiungimento familiare” is electronically sent to the relevant Consulate.
5. Visa Application
The non-EU spouse must apply for a family reunification visa (Nulla Osta per ricongiungimento familiare) at the Italian Consulate in their country of residence. The issuance of this visa is contingent upon the approval of the Nulla Osta.
6. Residence Permit
Upon entering Italy, the non-EU spouse must apply for a residence permit (Permesso di Soggiorno) for family reasons within eight days. This permit allows the spouse to work, establish formal residency, and access social services in Italy.
Conclusion
The EU citizen family reunification process (Ricongiungimento familiare) is a critical process that ensures the unity of families across borders. In Italy, the process is well-defined but requires careful attention to the legal requirements and documentation.
By following the steps outlined above and ensuring compliance with Italian immigration law, EU citizens can successfully reunite with their non-EU spouses and start a new chapter of their lives together in Italy.
Written by Alessandro Pirrò
Alessandro is a former legal advisor to the Italian Government and has worked with top law firms in Rome, focusing on international marriage and immigration law. He now supports foreign couples getting legally married in Italy, offering expert guidance on paperwork, consular requirements and legal recognition in their home country.
Who Will Be Your Legal Advisors in Italy for the “Ricongiungimento familiare” after the Marriage
Our firm’s specialized legal consultation services are designed to assist you in successfully meeting these requirements, thereby facilitating the legal recognition of your marriage in both Italy and the U.S.
Due to our experience in law firms and the foreign offices of the Italian public administration, we gained significant expertise in Consular affairs, and we are trained to solve the most complicated procedure such as:
1) Nulla osta process, legalization procedure, Court hearings for the refusal of the town hall when there documents missing , legal translation, apostille procedure, emergency procedure for legalization.
2) Same-sex couples that want to celebrate a civil union in Italy as in their country the union is forbidden;
3) Couples that come from countries where divorce is not allowed;
4) Italians living abroad registered at AIRE that need to recover their document to start the marriage banns in the Italian Consulate;
5) Assistance with people that come from countries that do not release the nulla osta;
6) American and Australian couples who needs assistance with “atto notorio” in an Italian Court or the Italian Consulate in the USA or Australia.
7) People with refugee status who have requested asylum in Italy.
8) Immigration law with a strong focus on “family reunification” and “family cohesion“.
For all other matters, please visit our FAQ section.
