Family Members of Italian or European Union Citizens

Foreign family members of Italian citizens or citizens of another European Union country may benefit from simplified procedures for entering and residing in Italy.

These benefits apply mainly when the family member accompanies the Italian or EU citizen or joins them in Italy.

Who is considered a family member?

The following people are recognised as family members:

  1. the spouse;
  2. a partner in a civil union or registered partnership recognised in Italy;
  3. children and other direct descendants who are under 21 years of age or financially dependent;
  4. parents and other direct ascendants who are financially dependent.

This also includes the children and parents of the spouse or registered partner.

When financial dependency is required, it must be demonstrated through documents proving genuine and ongoing financial support.

Other family members and unmarried partners

Other relatives, such as brothers and sisters, may also apply to accompany or join the Italian or EU citizen when:

  1. they are financially dependent on the citizen;
  2. they lived with the citizen in their country of origin;
  3. they have serious health conditions requiring the citizen’s personal care.

An application from an unmarried partner may also be considered when there is a stable relationship that is properly documented.

In these cases, the right of entry is not automatic. The Consulate assesses each situation individually, and the visa is not necessarily issued free of charge.