Bringing your family to Italy
For most people the move only works if the family comes too. Italian law sets who can join, and the income and housing you must show. Blue Card holders can apply whatever the length of their permit.
Who can join (art. 29, par. 1)
Spouse
Not legally separated and at least 18 years old.
Minor children
Unmarried, including the spouse's children or children born outside marriage, with the other parent's consent where required.
Adult children
Dependent adult children who cannot provide for themselves because of a health condition causing total disability.
Parents
Dependent parents with no other children in the home country, or over 65 when the other children cannot support them for documented serious health reasons.
Conditions (art. 29, par. 3)
| Condition | What the law requires |
|---|---|
| Income | At least the annual amount of the assegno sociale, plus half of it for each family member joining. Two or more children under 14: at least twice the annual assegno sociale. Income of cohabiting relatives counts. Amount for 2026: [assegno sociale 2026 to confirm on INPS] |
| Housing | A home meeting health and hygiene standards and suitable for the number of occupants, checked by the municipality. For a child under 14 joining one parent, the owner's consent is enough. |
Source: art. 29 D.Lgs. 286/1998, consolidated text; for Blue Card holders art. 27-quater par. 16 (text). Read 4 Nov 2026.
How your Italian payslip helps
The income test is met with documented, lawful income. An Italian employment contract and monthly payslips from us are exactly that evidence, and the rental contract you sign in Italy supports the housing check. Family members receive their own permit, which for Blue Card holders lasts as long as yours and can later be converted into a work or study permit.
- Start collecting marriage and birth certificates early: documents issued abroad need legalisation or apostille and a certified Italian translation.
- Choose the home with the family size in mind: the housing check counts occupants.
- Plan school places and health service registration for each family member.