Top 5 Things You Need to Know About the EU Family Travel Permit
Traveling with your family is an adventure that every parent wants to embark on. However, traveling with children can be quite challenging, especially when going outside the country. Fortunately, the European Union has made it easier for families to travel together within its member states by issuing the EU Family Travel Permit. In this article, we will discuss the top 5 things you need to know about the EU Family Travel Permit.
1. What is the EU Family Travel Permit?
The EU Family Travel Permit is a document that allows family members of EU citizens, who are not EU citizens themselves, to enter and travel freely within the European Union. This document is also referred to as the Article 10 residence card or the EU family member residence card.
The EU Family Travel Permit can be issued to non-EU family members such as spouses, children, and dependent parents. It is issued by the member state where the EU citizen resides and is valid throughout the EU.
2. Who is eligible for the EU Family Travel Permit?
To be eligible for the EU Family Travel Permit, you must be a family member of an EU citizen. The EU citizen must be traveling with you or residing in the same country as you. Family members eligible for the EU Family Travel Permit include spouses, children (including adopted children), and dependent parents.
3. How to apply for the EU Family Travel Permit?
To apply for the EU Family Travel Permit, you need to contact the member state where the EU citizen resides. You will need to provide the necessary documents to support your application, which may include a marriage certificate, birth certificate, proof of residence, and travel documents.
The application process may take several weeks, and you may need to attend an interview or provide biometric data, depending on the member state’s procedures.
4. What are the benefits of the EU Family Travel Permit?
The EU Family Travel Permit provides several benefits for non-EU family members of EU citizens. One of the significant benefits is that it allows family members to travel within the EU without requiring a visa. The permit also allows family members to work or study in the EU, subject to certain conditions.
The EU Family Travel Permit also grants family members the same rights and benefits as EU citizens, including access to healthcare, education, and social services.
5. How long does the EU Family Travel Permit last?
The EU Family Travel Permit is valid for five years from the date of issuance. After five years, you will need to apply for a renewal of the permit. You may also need to apply for a new permit if your circumstances change, such as moving to a different member state or getting a divorce.
In conclusion, the EU Family Travel Permit provides a convenient and hassle-free way for non-EU family members of EU citizens to travel and reside within the EU. By understanding the top 5 things you need to know about the EU Family Travel Permit, you can ensure that you and your family can enjoy the benefits of traveling together without any unnecessary hindrances.