Family reunification

What is refugee family reunification? 

Family reunification helps bring family members living in different countries together.  

Sometimes, families are forced to leave their homes and get separated. If one family member is recognized as a refugee or given other protection status in another country, they may be able to ask for their close family to join them, depending on the rules of the country. This process is called refugee family reunification, and it helps families live together again in safety.  

This process is managed by the government of the country you wish to be reunited in.  

Can I apply for family reunification? 

If you are a refugee or have been given other protection status in your current country, you may be able to apply to the government of the country you want to be reunited in for eligible family members to join you.  

This depends on: 

• the country you live in
• the type of legal status you have
• sometimes also the length of time you have had that legal status  

The country where you live will also determine which members of your family may be eligible to join you.  

Most national laws allow you to apply for: 

• Your spouse
• Your children under 18
• the parents of children under 18 

 In some countries, other dependent family members can also apply for family reunification.   

If the application is accepted, your family members are granted a visa to travel to reunite with you. When they arrive, they will get a residence permit (this permit may be different depending on the country). 

Which countries allow refugee family reunification? 

Most countries have special family reunification procedures for refugees.  

These are different from the rules for family for other migrants (non-refugees) and are often more favourable for refugees.

What documents do I need to provide to reunite with my family? 

Each country has different rules. But usually, you will need to show: 

• Who you are (e.g., passport or some form of national ID)
• Your relationship to your family (e.g., marriage certificate, birth certificate) 

In addition, or as an alternative to these types of documentation, some countries may ask you to present:  

• photos
• phone records
• attestations from persons who know you
• custody documents
• a DNA test  

You may also need to attend an interview with representatives of the government.  

In some countries, you may be asked to provide: 

• a copy of an accommodation agreement
• proof of income 

To know which documents you need, consult the government’s official websites.   

Can my family leave their country? 

Depending on where they are located, your family members may need to obtain an exit permit from their current country of residence in order to leave the country and reunite with you. Information on the documentation required to depart from a country is also available on government websites. 

Some governments require family members to hold valid passports or travel documents to travel for family reunification, occasionally there is insistence on your family holding a national passport.  

Can someone help me apply for family reunification? 

Yes, some organizations can help you with the application process, including with obtaining the documents required.  

Some of these organizations charge, others offer services free of charge. Be careful – only trust official or well-known organizations.  

Visit the Help website of the country you are in to check if there are any partner organizations available to help you and contact only reliable organizations. 

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UNHCR offices do not usually provide direct support with the family reunification process, but may be able to provide you with information on where to go for help. 

How much does family reunification cost? 

This depends on each country. There may be:  

• An application fee
• A minimum income requirement — this is an amount of money you will need to be earning in order to apply for family reunification.
• Other costs linked to getting required documents, exit permits and travel fares Most of the time, these costs must be paid by you and your family, although the precise costs will depend on the country. 

How long will it take for me to reunite with my family members? 

The length of the reunification process can vary greatly depending on several factors including the country that is processing your application, your type of relationship and the amount of evidence required and available.  

Delays are also often observed due to security checks, administrative backlogs and missing documents.  

What if I am rejected for family reunification? 

You may be able to appeal against a government decision to refuse your family reunification application. Whether you have the right to appeal and the relevant timelines and legal support available to do so will depend on the country where you live. 

Where can I find more information? 

Whether you want your family to join you in the country you are in, or you want to join them where they are, select below to learn more about family reunification and how to apply.

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If your country of interest is not listed, go to the official government website of the country and search for “family reunification”.