Family Reunification Visa

Reunite with your family in Germany - Spouse, children, and family member visas

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Family Reunification in Germany

The German Family Reunification Visa allows family members of residents in Germany to join their loved ones. This visa category covers spouses, children, and in some cases, other family members, enabling families to live together in Germany.

Spouse Reunification

Join your spouse who is legally residing in Germany

Children Reunification

Bring your children to live with you in Germany

Eligible Family Members

Spouses and Registered Partners

Join your spouse or registered partner who holds a valid residence permit in Germany.

  • Must prove genuine relationship
  • Sponsor must have adequate living space
  • Sponsor must have sufficient income
  • Basic German language skills required (A1 level)

Minor Children

Children under 18 can join their parents who are legally residing in Germany.

  • Must be under 18 years old
  • Both parents must have custody rights
  • No language requirement for young children
  • Must enroll in German school upon arrival

Other Family Members

In specific cases, other family members may be eligible for reunification.

  • Parents of minor refugees
  • Family members of EU Blue Card holders
  • Cases of exceptional hardship
  • Strict requirements and limited eligibility

Eligibility Criteria

Requirement Sponsor (in Germany) Family Member (Applicant)
Residence Status Valid residence permit (minimum 1 year) Must be genuine family member
Financial Means Sufficient income without public funds No separate income requirement
Accommodation Adequate living space for family Will live with sponsor
Health Insurance Must have health insurance for family Must be covered by insurance
Language Skills No specific requirement Basic German (A1) for spouses
Integration No criminal record, integrated into society No threat to public order

Document Requirements

Sponsor's Documents (in Germany)

  • Valid passport and residence permit
  • Proof of income (last 3-6 months)
  • Rental agreement or property documents
  • Health insurance confirmation
  • Employment contract
  • Registration certificate (Anmeldung)

Applicant's Documents

  • Valid passport
  • Birth certificates (for children)
  • Marriage certificate (for spouses)
  • German language certificate (A1)
  • Biometric photographs
  • Completed application forms

Language Requirements

German Language Proficiency

Spouses applying for family reunification must demonstrate basic German language skills at the A1 level according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.

Exemptions from Language Requirement:
  • University degree holders
  • Highly skilled professionals
  • Cases of hardship
  • Physical or mental health limitations
Accepted Certificates:
  • Goethe-Zertifikat A1
  • Telc Deutsch A1
  • ÖSD Zertifikat A1
  • Other recognized certificates

Application Process

1
Preparation

Gather all required documents from both sponsor and applicant

2
Language Course

Complete A1 German course and obtain certificate (for spouses)

3
Visa Application

Submit application at German embassy/consulate in home country

4
Processing

Wait for visa approval (typically 3-6 months)

5
Visa Grant

Collect passport with visa and travel to Germany

6
Registration

Register at local registration office and apply for residence permit

Processing Time

The processing time for family reunification visas typically ranges from 3 to 6 months, depending on the embassy/consulate workload and completeness of application. Some cases may take longer if additional verification is required.

Frequently Asked Questions

There's no fixed amount, but the sponsor must demonstrate sufficient income to support the family without relying on public funds. Generally, this means net income should cover rent, utilities, food, health insurance, and other living expenses for all family members. The exact amount varies by city and family size.

Yes, spouses on family reunification visas generally have full access to the German labor market and can work without restrictions. The residence permit will specify whether employment is permitted. Some restrictions may apply during the first few years for certain categories.

German language certificates typically do not expire. Once you have obtained an A1 certificate, it remains valid indefinitely for visa purposes. However, if there's a significant time gap between obtaining the certificate and applying for the visa, the embassy might request a more recent certificate or additional proof of language skills.

Generally, parents of adult German residents cannot be brought to Germany through family reunification. Exceptions exist for cases of exceptional hardship or if the parents are dependent on care that cannot be provided in their home country. These cases are evaluated individually and have very strict requirements.

Reunite With Your Family in Germany

Our experts will guide you through the entire family reunification process with personalized support.

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