Timor-Leste family reunification

Article 70 of the Law on Migration and Asylum recognises family reunification for relatives of Timorese citizens, namely spouses, minor, adopted or disabled children and ascendant relatives; for foreigners who are the spouse, minor, adopted or disabled child or ascendant of a foreign resident and dependent on that resident; and for the same relatives of a foreigner with refugee status recognised by Timor-Leste. Where a child under 17 or a disabled person is the child of only one spouse, reunification is available only if that spouse has legal custody.

A foreign spouse of a Timorese citizen who is in Timor-Leste applies for family reunification under Article 70(1)(a) and Article 59 of the law, which makes family reunification a purpose of the Temporary Resident Permit. The Migration Service confirms this applies to recently married couples. Family reunification applicants do not need a Visa to Establish Residence first (Article 41). The Type A permit also covers spouses who have been married to a Timorese citizen for two to five years and intend to reside in the country.

Submit a copy of the passport and latest visa, the completed and signed residence permit form, the marriage certificate where applicable, evidence of accommodation and means of subsistence, a declaration from the village chief (Chefe do Suco), an original medical certificate, a criminal record from any country where you lived for at least a year (not needed under 16), photographs (two 3x4 cm and one 2x3 cm, white background) and a blue file folder. For people married to or dependent on a Timorese citizen, add a copy of the spouse's Timor-Leste birth certificate, a colour copy of the spouse's voter registration card and a baptism certificate if applicable.

Family members of foreigners who hold a work visa, a Business Visa Class II, a Temporary Stay Visa or a Special Stay Authorization do not use the permit route; they apply for a Temporary Stay Visa as dependants, valid for the same period as the principal's visa, for USD 50, and may not work. Family ties must be certified by the consular services of the issuing country.