Family Reunion Visa Germany

The Germany Family Reunion Visa facilitates the unification of families by allowing non-EU nationals to join their relatives residing in Germany.

This visa is integral for individuals from third countries wishing to live with family members who are legally settled in Germany. Essential for promoting family unity, it also aids in the cultural integration of immigrants.

The visa process involves meeting specific criteria, which vary depending on the applicant’s relationship to the resident in Germany and includes a detailed application procedure.

This visa demonstrates Germany’s commitment to family values and supports the stable integration of immigrants into its society.

The visa regulations in Germany are complex and vary based on individual circumstances. This guide aims to provide a general overview, and we recommend consulting with experts like Total Law for advice tailored to your specific situation.

Page Contents

• Introduction Family Visa Germany
• Who Can Get the Germany Family Reunion Visa?
• Requirements for the Germany Family Reunion Visa
• Spouse/Civil Partner Family Reunion Visa
• Children’s Family Reunion Visa
• Family Reunion Visa for Other Family Members
• How to Apply for the Germany Family Reunion Visa
• Germany Family Reunion Visa Application Process
• Required Documents for the Germany Family Reunion Visa
• Germany Family Reunion Visa Fees and Costs
• Working Opportunities on the Germany Family Reunion Visa
• How Can Total Law Help?
• Frequently Asked Questions

The Spouse/Civil Partner Family Reunion Visa requirements for Germany are designed to ensure the authenticity and stability of the relationship between the applicant and the resident in Germany.

Key Requirements

Both the resident in Germany and the spouse or civil partner applying for the visa must be over 18 years old.

Valid documentation proving the marriage or civil partnership is required. This includes a marriage certificate or a civil partnership registration document. The marriage or civil partnership must be recognised under German law.

While specific duration requirements may vary, the relationship must be established and ongoing. It’s essential to demonstrate that the marriage or partnership is genuine and not solely for immigration purposes.

Applicants typically need to show a basic proficiency in the German language. However, there are exemptions based on the resident’s status in Germany. For instance, if the resident is an EU Blue Card holder, self-employed, a researcher, or highly qualified, the language requirement for the spouse may be waived.

Special Considerations and Exemptions

In cases where the resident in Germany holds certain statuses (like an EU Blue Card), some requirements, such as age and language proficiency, may be relaxed or waived.

As an example, let’s consider a software engineer living on an EU Blue Card in Germany. His wife, applying for a family reunion visa, would not be required to meet the German language requirement due to her husband’s Blue Card status. However, they must provide their marriage certificate and evidence of the ongoing nature of their relationship.

The Children’s Family Reunion Visa for Germany allows minors to join their parent(s) who are legally residing in Germany. This visa conforms to various requirements and considerations, ensuring the child’s welfare and facilitating family unity.

Key Requirements

1. The child must be under 18 years old at the time of application.
2. The child should not be married, divorced, or widowed.
3. Valid birth certificates are required to establish the relationship between the child and the parent(s) residing in Germany.
4. The parent(s) in Germany must hold a relevant visa and residency permit and continue to meet the requirements for the duration of their stay.
5. The parent(s) must demonstrate the ability to support the child in Germany without reliance on state benefits.
6. The appropriate living arrangements must be in place for the child.

Considerations for Legal-Age Children (16 years and above)

If they apply for a family reunion with a non-German/non-EU national parent, Proof of German knowledge (C1 level) may be required.

Dependency Demonstration

The parent(s) in Germany need to show that the child is dependent on them. This can include evidence of financial support, ongoing relationships, and involvement in the child’s life.

Documentation

Along with the application form, parents must submit the child’s valid Passport, school certificates mentioning parentage and date of birth, and Proof of the parent’s marriage, divorce, or death certificate, if applicable. In cases where the parents are separated, Proof of sole custody or a declaration of consent from the non-residing parent may be necessary​​​​.

The Germany Family Reunion Visa for other relatives, such as parents, siblings, and grandparents, has specific requirements:

1. This category generally applies to other dependents of non-EU nationals legally residing in Germany. However, the provision for these relatives is typically more restrictive compared to spouses or minor children.
2. The resident in Germany must demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support their relative without state benefits.
3. Sufficient living space for the additional family member is required.
4. There should be Proof of dependency or need, especially in cases involving elderly parents or special needs siblings.
5. This visa is often subject to more investigation to ensure the relationship’s legitimacy and the necessity of the reunion.

In one example scenario, an elderly parent would apply for this visa if they were dependent on the child for care and had no other family support.

1. Collect all necessary documents, including valid passports, proof of relationship, financial documents of the resident in Germany, and proof of accommodation.
2. Complete the application form, declaration form, and any additional required forms.
3. Schedule an appointment at the German Embassy or Consulate or through VFS Global.
4. Present all the documents at the appointment. Ensure that all documents are correctly filled and signed.
5. An interview may be required to assess the application.
6. The processing timeline can vary, so it’s advisable to apply well in advance of the intended travel date.
7. After processing, you’ll be informed about the decision on your visa application.

Application Tips

Ensure all documents are up-to-date and correctly translated, if not in German or English.

Check the specific requirements for your home country on the official German Embassy or Consulate website.

Seek assistance from Total Law immigration lawyers or consultants if necessary.

1. Before applying, gather all necessary information and documents related to the applicant and the family member residing in Germany.
2. Complete the Family Reunion Visa application form. Forms are generally available online on the official German Embassy or Consulate website.
3. Along with the application form, submit all required documents. This typically includes proof of relationship, financial documents, and evidence of accommodation in Germany.
4. Schedule an appointment at the German Embassy or Consulate or through a visa application centre like VFS Global.
5. Attend a visa interview where the purpose of the visit and the relationship with the resident in Germany will be assessed.
6. Wait for the decision on the visa application. Processing times can take up to 12 weeks, it may vary depending on the embassy/consulate and specific case.
7. Common issues include incomplete documentation, insufficient proof of relationship or financial stability, and high demand for appointments.
8. In certain cases, such as minors or dependent elderly parents, additional documentation or legal guardianship proof might be required.

1. Valid Passport Issued within the last ten years and valid for at least another year as of the date of the visa application.
2. Application Form Duly filled and signed.
3. Registration of Marriage certificate, birth certificate, etc.
4. Financial Documents proof of financial stability of the resident in Germany.
5. Proof of Accommodation Evidence of adequate living space in Germany.
6. Health Insurance Valid health insurance coverage for the applicant.
7. Documents that are not in German or English must be translated and certified.
8. Additional Documents Depending on the specific case, additional documents like custody papers for children or dependency proof for elderly parents may be required.

Document Preparation Guidance

• Ensure all documents are up-to-date and translated/certified as necessary.
• Organise documents in the order specified in the checklist provided by the embassy/consulate.
• Keep both originals and copies of all documents for submission.

The fee for a German family reunion visa is approximately £64.50 for adults and £32.25 for children under 18. These fees apply to the majority of applicants, but there are exceptions. Certain groups may be exempt from paying the visa fee, including:

• Spouses and minor children of German nationals or citizens of other EU countries
• Parents of minor German nationals or children from other EU countries
• Children below six years of age
• Same-sex partners in a registered civil union
• Unmarried minor children of German citizens

It’s important to verify your eligibility for any fee waivers with your nearest German embassy or consulate. In cases where exemptions apply, a refund of the fee may be processed subsequently.

Holders of the Germany Family Reunion Visa generally have the right to seek employment in Germany. The job types and opportunities available may depend on the individual’s qualifications and the local job market.

There may be specific restrictions or requirements, such as recognition of foreign qualifications or language proficiency, depending on the job sector.

Working in Germany on this visa can offer access to a robust job market, opportunities for professional growth, and integration into German society and economy.