How Refugees Can Apply for Family Reunification Visas

1. Understand Who Qualifies as “Family”

Different countries define “family” in slightly different ways, but typically, family reunification is open to:

Spouses or partners (including same-sex partners in countries where it’s recognized)
Children under 18
Parents of unaccompanied minors
In some cases: dependent siblings or other close relatives

Always check the specific rules of the country you’re applying in, as some may allow extended family under certain conditions.

2. Check the Eligibility of the Sponsor (You)

As the person already granted refugee status, you are often called the “sponsor.” To apply for family reunification, you usually must:

Hold refugee status or subsidiary protection
Apply within a certain time frame after being granted protection (commonly 3–12 months)
Be able to support your family financially in some countries (though this is often waived for refugees)

Some countries may also ask for proof that you have suitable accommodation for your family.

3. Gather the Required Documents

While exact documents vary by country, these are commonly required:

Proof of your refugee status (e.g. residence permit or decision letter)
Passport copies (yours and your family members’)
Birth and marriage certificates (to prove relationships)
Photos
Proof of communication or contact (in some cases)

If original documents were lost during the escape or displacement, some embassies allow alternative forms of evidence, such as affidavits or DNA tests.

4. Submit the Family Reunification Application

You will need to fill out a family reunification visa application at the embassy or consulate of the country where you reside. This may involve:

Booking an appointment for your family at the nearest embassy
Submitting forms either online or in person
Paying a visa application fee (which may be waived for refugee cases)

Make sure your family members attend their appointment with all required documents.

5. Attend Interviews and Wait for Processing

Depending on the country, your family may be called for an interview at the embassy. This is to verify the relationship and the intent to reunite.

Processing times vary some applications are approved in weeks, others can take several months. If you haven’t heard back after the stated timeline, you can often follow up or request updates through legal support or NGOs.

6. Prepare for Arrival

Once the visa is approved, help your family prepare for travel and arrival:

Book travel tickets and keep all travel documents safe
Connect with local refugee support organizations that can help them settle in
Make arrangements for housing, schooling (for children), and other essentials.

7. Seek Legal or NGO Support If Needed

If the process feels overwhelming or you hit obstacles—don’t go through it alone. Many non-profits, legal aid groups, and refugee-focused NGOs provide:

Free legal advice
Help with forms and documentation
Translation and interpretation services
Emotional and practical support

Organizations like the International Organization for Migration (IOM) or Refugee Council in your country may be great places to start.

Final Thoughts

Reuniting with your family is more than paperwork—it’s about healing hearts, restoring hope, and building new lives together. The process can be long, but it is possible, and you are not alone.

Keep your documents organized, follow each step carefully, and ask for help when needed. With patience and perseverance, you can bring your loved ones to safety and start your new chapter together.