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Family Reunification

Guidelines for bringing family members to France under immigration laws.

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Comprehensive Guide to Family Reunification in France

Family reunification (or "regroupement familial") is a legal process in France that allows non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals residing in France to bring their immediate family members to live with them. This process is governed by French immigration law and is subject to specific conditions, procedures, and requirements. Below is a detailed guide to help you understand and navigate the family reunification process in France.

1. Legal Framework for Family Reunification in France

Family reunification in France is primarily governed by:

  • Code de l'entrée et du séjour des étrangers et du droit d'asile (CESEDA): This is the French Code on the Entry and Stay of Foreigners and the Right of Asylum.
  • EU Directives: While family reunification for non-EU nationals is regulated by French law, EU nationals residing in France may benefit from EU freedom of movement rules, which are less restrictive.

Who Can Apply for Family Reunification?

The sponsor (the person already residing in France) must meet the following conditions:

  1. Legal Residency: The sponsor must hold a valid residence permit in France (e.g., a long-term visa, "carte de séjour," or "carte de résident") and have resided in France for at least 18 months.
  2. Family Members Eligible:
    • Spouse (must be legally married; civil partnerships like PACS are not eligible).
    • Minor children (under 18 years old) of the sponsor or their spouse.
    • In some cases, dependent parents or other relatives may qualify, but this is less common and subject to stricter conditions.
  3. Financial Resources: The sponsor must demonstrate sufficient income to support the family. The required income depends on the size of the family and is based on the French minimum wage (SMIC). For example:
    • For a family of 2: ~1,400–1,500 EUR/month.
    • For a family of 4: ~1,800–2,000 EUR/month.
  4. Housing Requirements: The sponsor must provide proof of adequate housing that meets French standards for the size of the family.

Exemptions

  • Refugees, stateless persons, and beneficiaries of subsidiary protection are subject to a simplified process and are exempt from the 18-month residency requirement and financial resource conditions.

2. Costs Involved in Family Reunification

The family reunification process involves several costs, including:

  1. Application Fees: There is no fee for submitting the family reunification application itself.
  2. Visa Fees: Family members will need to apply for a long-stay visa (visa de long séjour) at the French consulate in their home country. The visa fee is typically 99 EUR per person.
  3. Translation and Legalization of Documents: All official documents (e.g., marriage certificates, birth certificates) must be translated into French by a certified translator and may need to be legalized or apostilled. Costs vary but can range from 20–50 EUR per page for translation and 10–50 EUR per document for legalization.
  4. Medical Examination: Family members may need to undergo a medical examination as part of the visa process, which can cost around 50–100 EUR.
  5. Travel Costs: The sponsor or family members will need to cover travel expenses to France.

3. Standard Procedures for Family Reunification

The family reunification process involves several steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Application

The sponsor must gather the required documents, which typically include:

  • Proof of legal residence in France (residence permit).
  • Proof of income (e.g., pay slips, tax returns).
  • Proof of housing (e.g., rental contract, utility bills).
  • Civil status documents (e.g., marriage certificate, birth certificates of children).
  • Proof of family ties (e.g., family book or equivalent).

Step 2: Submit the Application

  • The application is submitted to the local Direction Territoriale de l’Office Français de l’Immigration et de l’Intégration (OFII).
  • The OFII will review the application and may request additional documents.

Step 3: Housing Inspection

  • The OFII may conduct a housing inspection to verify that the sponsor’s accommodation meets the required standards.

Step 4: Decision by the Prefecture

  • The Prefecture will issue a decision within 6 months of receiving the complete application. If no decision is made within this time, the application is considered approved.

Step 5: Visa Application for Family Members

  • Once the application is approved, family members must apply for a long-stay visa at the French consulate in their home country. Required documents include:
    • Approval letter from the OFII.
    • Valid passports.
    • Proof of family ties (e.g., marriage certificate, birth certificates).

Step 6: Arrival in France

  • Upon arrival, family members must validate their long-stay visa with the OFII and may need to apply for a residence permit.

4. Country-Specific Considerations

Cultural Aspects

  • Family Values: France places a strong emphasis on family unity, and the family reunification process reflects this value. However, the process is also designed to ensure that the sponsor can provide adequate support for their family.
  • Integration Expectations: Family members arriving in France may be required to participate in integration programs, including language courses and civic training, to help them adapt to French society.

Legal and Practical Tips

  • Document Authenticity: French authorities are strict about the authenticity of documents. Ensure all documents are properly translated, legalized, or apostilled.
  • Timelines: The process can take several months, so it’s important to plan ahead and be patient.
  • Legal Assistance: If you encounter difficulties, consider seeking help from an immigration lawyer or a non-profit organization specializing in immigrant rights.

5. Additional Resources

  • OFII Website: https://www.ofii.fr (Official site for immigration and integration in France).
  • Prefecture Websites: Check the website of your local Prefecture for specific requirements and procedures.
  • Non-Profit Organizations: Groups like France Terre d’Asile and Cimade offer support and guidance for immigrants.

Conclusion

Family reunification in France is a structured process designed to balance the rights of families with the country’s immigration policies. By understanding the legal requirements, preparing the necessary documents, and following the outlined procedures, you can successfully navigate this process. While it may seem complex, resources and support are available to help you reunite with your loved ones in France.