Romania’s policies on family reunification offer a structured path for families looking to live together within its borders. For those embarking on this journey, navigating the complexities of immigration law is a significant step. Here, the expertise of an immigration lawyer in Romania becomes invaluable.
Law firms specialize in guiding clients through the detailed process of obtaining a long-stay visa for family reunification, ensuring that all legal provisions are met efficiently. With a deep understanding of the legal framework, including the key provisions of GEO 194/2002, an immigration lawyer in Romania plays a critical role in uniting families from different corners of the globe.
Legal Framework for Family Reunification
Romanian law, through GEO 194/2002, clearly outlines who can apply for family reunification. It includes unmarried partners with common children, minor or dependent children, first-degree relatives in the ascending line, and other specific family members under certain conditions. Importantly, the definition of a foreigner covers individuals who do not possess Romanian, other EU Member States, EEA, or Swiss nationality.
Application Process for a Long-Stay Visa
The first step for family reunification is obtaining a long-stay visa, applied for at Romanian diplomatic missions or consular offices abroad. Applicants use the “E-Visa” online portal, followed by an in-person submission of original documents when notified. The required documents usually include proof of relationship, medical insurance, a criminal record certificate, and the applicant’s passport.
Criteria and Documents
Applicants must provide documentation verifying their relationship, such as marriage certificates, along with medical insurance, a criminal record certificate, and other relevant documents. Sometimes, an invitation from the Romanian family member, certified by a notary, is also required.
Situations Leading to Visa Refusal
Applications can be refused for reasons such as marriages of convenience, bigamy, polygamy, or failure to meet health, financial, or legal standards. The law specifies criteria for identifying marriages of convenience, aiming to prevent misuse of the family reunification process.
Family Reunification for Foreign Nationals in Romania
Foreign residents in Romania can also sponsor family reunification visas. This includes those with long-term or temporary residence permits, EU Blue Card holders, refugees, and beneficiaries of temporary protection. The application process involves obtaining approval from the General Inspectorate for Immigration in Romania and submitting the necessary documentation, which varies based on the applicant’s status.
Special Considerations
In certain cases, like those involving sponsors with scientific research activities or international protection statuses, the requirements for living space and financial means may be adjusted. The process emphasizes the importance of legal residence and the ability to support and house family members adequately.
Final Steps and Potential Refusal Reasons
After obtaining immigration approval, the family member must apply for a long-stay visa at a Romanian diplomatic mission or consular office. Reasons for refusal include bigamy, inadequate living space, insufficient means of support, and legal or security concerns. Successful applicants will then have 90 days upon entry to apply for a residence permit extension in Romania.
Conclusion
Romania’s family reunification process is structured to ensure that families have the opportunity to live together within its jurisdiction, respecting legal and procedural standards. While the process may seem daunting, it is designed with the noble goal of keeping families united. Understanding the steps and requirements is key to a successful application, leading to the joy of family unity in Romania.
