Nulla osta: family reunification clearance
Quick answer
The nulla osta is the clearance that starts Italian family reunification (ricongiungimento familiare), issued by the Sportello Unico. A non-EU resident sponsors it by proving sufficient income and suitable housing. Once granted, the family member gets a visa abroad, then a permesso per motivi familiari within 8 working days of arriving.
The nulla osta is the authorization that begins family reunification (ricongiungimento familiare) in Italy. A non-EU resident applies for it at the Sportello Unico per l'Immigrazione; once granted, their family member applies for a visa abroad and then a permesso per motivi familiari after arriving.
Who can sponsor, and who can join
A non-EU citizen legally resident in Italy (with a qualifying permesso) can sponsor reunification. Eligible family typically includes a spouse, minor children, and in some cases dependent parents or adult children unable to support themselves. Each relationship has its own proof requirements.
Income and housing requirements
The sponsor must show a minimum annual income, which increases with the number of family members joining, and suitable housing certified as adequate (idoneità alloggiativa). Thresholds are set nationally and updated periodically, so verify the current figures before applying.
From nulla osta to arrival
After the Sportello Unico issues the nulla osta, the family member applies for the family visa at the Italian consulate in their country. On arrival in Italy they apply for a permesso per motivi familiari within 8 working days, then complete residenza and, where relevant, school enrolment.
What you need
- ✓Sponsor's permesso di soggiorno
- ✓Proof of income (tax returns, payslips)
- ✓Housing suitability certificate (idoneità alloggiativa)
- ✓Documents proving the family relationship (legalized and translated)
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Build my checklistFrequently asked questions
What is ricongiungimento familiare?+
It is Italian family reunification: the process by which a non-EU resident brings eligible family members to live with them, starting with a nulla osta from the Sportello Unico.
What are the requirements to sponsor family reunification?+
The sponsor must show a minimum annual income (rising with the number of family members) and certified suitable housing (idoneità alloggiativa).
What happens after the nulla osta is issued?+
The family member applies for a visa at the Italian consulate, then, after arriving, a permesso per motivi familiari within 8 working days.
Official sources
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Approdo provides information, not legal or tax advice. Requirements and figures change; always confirm with the official sources linked above.