First degree non-EU relatives of an EU citizen have the right to apply for a residence card at their local police headquarters.

This right is also extended to the first degree relative of the EU citizen's spouse.

The residence card is valid for 5 years from the date it is issued.

The EU citizen's family member acquires the right to permanent residency after 5 years of legally residing on national territory.

Who is it for?

Only certain types of family members can apply: 

• the EU citizen's spouse;
• the EU citizen's partner, provided there is a legally recognised contract of union;
• the EU cititzen's dependent parents, and those of his/her spouse/partner (irrespective of nationality);
• the EU citizen's children under the age of 21 years, and those of his/her spouse/partner (irrespective of nationality);
• the EU citizen's spouse's first degree relatives

Terms, deadlines and how to apply

Application for the residence card is to be submitted to local police headquarters (Questura). It is possible to get information or a preliminary investigation of the application at Immigration services in Prato Comune.

Documents required:

• passport or a valid form of identification;
• documentation that proves the family connection (if necessary, duly translated and approved. These documents are not necessary if the person in question has an entrance visa for family or tourism purposes with a note on the relationship with the EU citizen)
• documentation relating to the residency of the non-EU family member (where the family member is not yet resident, proof of application for registration at the registry office will suffice)
• documentation relating to the accommodation where the family member will reside;
• documentation relating to the economic means of the EU citizen family member;
• 4 x passport photographs