Family reunification

How it is used

A common term in EU law and refugee policy; UK texts also say family reunion. It usually covers spouses or partners and children under 18, and sometimes other relatives. Rules on income, housing and language may apply.

Example sentences

1. After getting refugee status, he applied for family reunification so that his children could join him.

2. Family reunification rules often require a minimum income and suitable housing.

Common collocations

• apply for family reunification
• family reunion
• right to family reunification
• family reunification visa

Related terms

• spouse visaA visa that allows the husband, wife or partner of a citizen or resident to join and live with them in that country.
• sponsorA person or organisation that supports your application, for example by paying your costs, offering you a job or being the family member you are joining.
• dependantA family member, usually a husband, wife, partner or child, who joins or stays with the main applicant and relies on them for support.
• refugee statusThe legal recognition, given by a country or by the UN refugee agency, that a person is a refugee and has the rights that come with it.