family reunification

American  

[fam-uh-lee ree-yoo-nuh-fi-key-shuhn, fam-lee] / ˈfæm ə li riˌyu nə fɪˈkeɪ ʃən, ˈfæm li /

noun

1. the act or process of bringing family members back together after a separation, especially the reuniting of spouses with each other, children with their parents, and elderly or dependent relatives with their caretakers.

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Etymology

Origin of family reunification

First recorded in 1955–60

Example Sentences

We have made it quite difficult to have family reunification in Denmark.

From BBC • Nov. 8, 2025

Since 2023, Finland has introduced stricter requirements for obtaining asylum, residence permits, family reunification and citizenship, though it welcomes work-based immigration.

From Barron's • Nov. 1, 2025

In its place, a new system gave priority to family reunification and skilled labor, unintentionally setting the stage for large-scale immigration from Asia, Latin America and Africa.

From The Wall Street Journal • Sep. 27, 2025

The family reunification principle allows for the admission of close relatives of adult U.S. citizens and of current green-card holders.

From Slate • Jul. 1, 2025

“In California, child welfare services are administered by counties, who have broad discretion in how they design family reunification programs. Each county is unique and serves a unique population,” Mier said.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 4, 2024