These are the two conditions that most often cause family reunification applications to fail. How much must you earn? What housing size? Here are the key figures and the method to position yourself well.
Beyond the length of residence, family reunification mainly comes down to two very concrete criteria: the resources and the housing. Knowing them precisely avoids filing an application doomed to refusal.
The required resources
You must prove stable and sufficient resources, assessed on average over the last 12 months, at least equal to the minimum wage (SMIC) and increasing with family size. As a guide for 2026:
- 2 to 3 people : about €1,823 per month.
- 4 to 5 people : about €2,005 per month.
- 6 people or more : about €2,188 per month.
Social benefits (RSA, family allowances, APL housing benefit, activity bonus) do not count in the calculation. What is considered is your income from work and similar.
Housing: size and compliance
The housing must be decent, compliant with standards (safety, sanitation) and of a sufficient size at the time the family arrives. The minimum size depends on the geographic zone :
- From about 22 m² in very high-demand zones (A bis, A) for two people.
- About 24 m² in zones B1 and B2.
- About 28 m² in zone C.
This size increases with the number of people housed.
Are your resources and housing sufficient?
We calculate your eligibility before launching the application.
Check my situationHow to strengthen your file
- Stabilize your income over time rather than over just a few months.
- Plan ahead for suitable housing for the future size of the household.
- Gather clear supporting documents (payslips, tax notices, lease, floor area).
What to do if you are just below?
If you are close to the thresholds, it is better to wait and consolidate your situation (income, housing) rather than filing a weak application. A refusal greatly lengthens the timeline.
Legalist calculates your eligibility
We assess your eligible resources, check that the housing is adequate and tell you clearly where you stand. First appointment free and with no obligation.
