Family Reunion Visa for Germany
Reunite with Your Loved Ones
Germany recognizes the importance of family unity and offers various pathways for family members to join their relatives living in Germany. Whether you're joining a spouse, parent, or child, we'll guide you through the process.
Types of Family Reunion
Spouse/Partner Reunion
For married spouses and registered partners to join their partner living in Germany.
Child Reunion
For minor children (under 18) to join their parents living in Germany.
Parent Reunion
For parents to join their adult children who are German citizens or permanent residents.
Sponsor Eligibility Requirements
Legal Status
- German citizenship
- Permanent residence permit
- EU Blue Card holder
- Long-term residence permit
Financial Requirements
- Sufficient income to support family
- Adequate housing space
- Health insurance coverage
- Stable employment or income source
Additional Criteria
- German language skills (B1 level)
- Integration course completion
- Minimum residence period (varies)
- Clean criminal record
Application Requirements by Category
Spouse/Partner Reunion Requirements
Relationship Proof
Marriage certificate (apostilled)
Proof of genuine relationship
Photos and communication evidence
Joint financial documents (if available)
Proof of genuine relationship
Photos and communication evidence
Joint financial documents (if available)
Language & Integration
German language certificate (A1 level)
Basic knowledge of German society
Willingness to integrate
Language course enrollment proof
Basic knowledge of German society
Willingness to integrate
Language course enrollment proof
Child Reunion Requirements
Child Documentation
Birth certificate (apostilled)
Custody documents
Consent from other parent (if needed)
School records and certificates
Custody documents
Consent from other parent (if needed)
School records and certificates
Special Considerations
Best interest of the child principle
Age limits (generally under 18)
Educational arrangements in Germany
Healthcare provisions
Age limits (generally under 18)
Educational arrangements in Germany
Healthcare provisions
Parent Reunion Requirements
Exceptional Circumstances
Humanitarian reasons
Need for care and support
No other family support available
Strong family ties to Germany
Need for care and support
No other family support available
Strong family ties to Germany
Additional Requirements
Higher language requirements (A1-B1)
Comprehensive health insurance
Proof of integration efforts
Long-term accommodation proof
Comprehensive health insurance
Proof of integration efforts
Long-term accommodation proof
Application Process Timeline
1
Document Preparation
Gather and translate all required documents, obtain apostilles where needed.
2-4 WEEKS
2
Language Preparation
Complete required German language courses and obtain certificates.
2-6 MONTHS
3
Application Submission
Schedule appointment and submit complete application at German consulate.
2-4 WEEKS
4
Processing & Decision
Wait for visa processing and decision from German authorities.
1-8 MONTHS
5
Travel & Arrival
Collect visa and travel to Germany to reunite with family.
1-2 WEEKS
Frequently Asked Questions
✅ Yes (unless sponsor has an EU Blue Card or researcher visa).
✔ Yes! Spouses get full work rights (no restrictions).
❌ No (unless you are a minor or extreme humanitarian reasons apply).
❌ No (unless in a registered partnership).
❌ Visa may be rejected (exceptions for students with blocked account).
✅ Yes! Children attend public schools for free.