Marriage Visa Germany
Getting married is an exciting milestone in a couple’s life. If your spouse is a German citizen, you may wish to settle in Germany after the wedding. However, immigration to Germany through marriage involves meeting strict criteria and navigating complex paperwork.
To streamline the process, consult with immigration experts. Whether you are planning your wedding or getting married to a German spouse, contact Total Law at +44 (0)333 305 9375 or message us online to discuss your situation. Our immigration lawyers can advise if you qualify for a visa and provide support at every step of the way.
Overview of Marriage Visa for Germany
If you’re considering getting married to a citizen or if Germany is your chosen wedding destination, there are requirements that may apply based on the duration of your stay and your nationality. One of these requirements involves applying for the German Residence Permit for Family Reunion, which essentially acts as a visa for marriage purposes.
The process involves two key visa types, these include:
- National Visa (D-Visa)
- This temporary visa allows your spouse to enter and stay in Germany for 90 days.
- It’s the initial visa granted after a successful visa application at the Germany embassy.
- During the 90-day validity period, you or your spouse must:
- Register their residence with the local authorities.
- Apply for the Residence Permit for Family Reunion at the immigration office.
- Residence Permit for Family Reunion
- The actual “marriage visa” allows your or your spouse to live in Germany long-term.
- Your spouse applies for it within the 90 days of the D-Visa validity period.
To apply for visas to enter Germany with the intention of getting married. You and your spouse need to be 18 years of age. Have an understanding of language reaching, at least an A1 level.
It is also necessary to have stable accommodation in Germany and demonstrate that you can financially support yourselves and any dependent family members without social benefits.
Page Contents
- Overview of Marriage Visa for Germany
- Countries Eligible For Visa-Free Travel To Germany
- Eligibility Criteria For The German Marriage Visa
- Required Documents For The German Marriage Visa
- How To Apply For A Marriage Visa
- Where Can I Apply For My Visa?
- How Can Total Law Help?
- Frequently Asked Questions
Countries Eligible For Visa-Free Travel To Germany
If you possess a passport issued by any country within the European Union or the European Economic Area. Including Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Switzerland you can travel to Germany without a visa.
Additionally, citizens of:
| Australia | Argentina | Brazil | Canada |
| Chile | Japan | Mexico | New Zealand |
| South Korea | United States |
Plus many other countries are granted the freedom to enter Germany for short term visits without a visa. For the complete list of countries for visa free entry into Germany, please refer to the official website of the German government.
Visitors from these countries are allowed to stay in Germany for up to 90 days during a 180 day period without obtaining a visa. If you’re planning a trip to Germany and your nationality falls within this category, you can visit Germany while adhering to their guidelines.
Conditions and Restrictions
While you can visit Germany without needing a visa if your citizenship meets the eligibility criteria, there are some restrictions you should be aware of.
For example, you cannot work or study in Germany. If your stay exceeds 90 days or you want to engage in employment. Then you will need to apply for a separate visa.
For further information regarding the eligibility criteria for visa-free travel; refer to the official website of the Federal Foreign Office. Alternatively, reach out to an immigration specialist like Total Law. Contact us at +44 (0)333 305 9375 to discuss your options.
Eligibility Criteria For The German Marriage Visa
The requirements to be eligible for the German marriage visa, also known as the Residence Permit for Family Reunion, differ based on whether you are a EU/EEA citizen of a citizen from outside the EU/EEA.
For EU/EEA and non EU/EEA citizens the general conditions include. Both partners must be at least 18 years old. The marriage needs to be recognized as valid in Germany. Both partners should have valid passports or travel documents and suitable accommodation within Germany.
Here is the general criteria specifically for EU/EEA Citizens
- Generally no marriage visa is needed, due to freedom of movement
- Registration of marriage with German authorities
- Evidence of sufficient financial means
- Valid health insurance for long-term stays
- Proof of A1 German language proficiency (may apply in long-term cases)
- Need Residence Permits, if intending to stay long-term
Here is the general criteria specifically for Non-EU/EEA Citizens
- Need a National visa (D-Visa) for initial entry into Germany
- Need a Residence Permit for Family Reunion (actual marriage visa)
- Provide evidence of marriage to German citizens
- Evidence of financial means to support themselves and dependents
- Proof of adequate health insurance
- Additional requirements possible depending on circumstances, such as your country of origin or previous visa history
Due to the complexity of these eligibility requirements, consult the embassy or consulate for the latest information. Alternatively, seek professional advice from an immigration specialist like Total Law. Contact us at +44 (0)333 305 9375 for personalised guidance on the visa application.
Required Documents For The German Marriage Visa
Whilst EU/EEA citizens generally enjoy freedom of movement within the EU and may not need to apply for a visa for marriage to reside in the country with the spouse. They might need to register their marriage with German authorities.
Whereas Non-EU/EEA citizens typically need a national visa (D-Visa) for family reunion purposes and then apply for the residency permit after their arrival.
Therefore, the specific documents needed for your application may vary depending on your personal circumstances. Here is a list of the general documents to apply.
They include:
- Valid passport
- Birth or marriage certificates
- Valid health insurance certificate
- Two biometric passport photos
- Registration of marriage (if applicable)
- Proof of marital relationship (joint bank statements, lease agreements, confirmation letters)
Your ability to financially sustain yourselves while in Germany, plays an integral role in determining whether or not you’ll be granted entry under this type of visa arrangement. This can be done through bank statements, savings accounts, tax returns, or employment contracts.
How To Apply For A Marriage Visa
To apply for a visa for marriage, usually you have to fill out an application form for a visa, provide the key documentation and relevant information such as your personal details, spouse’s information, and general information about the purpose of your stay.
Here is a step by step guide on how to apply for a visa:
1. Determine your visa type
- EU/EEA citizens: Generally don’t need a marriage visa but have to register the marriage with German authorities and other requirements if residing long-term.
- Non-EU/EEA citizens: Need a national visa (D-Visa) for family reunion to enter the country and then apply for a Residence Permit for Family Reunion after arrival.
2. Gather your documents
The next step is to gather the general documents, for both EU/EEA and non-EU/EEA citizens they include, valid passports, birth or marriage certificates, health insurance certificates.
Ensure they are up to date, and properly translated if needed.
- Additional documents for non-EU/EEA citizens:
- Proof of marriage with a German citizen (marriage certificate)
- Proof of sufficient financial means to support yourselves and any dependents in Germany (bank statements, employment contracts, tax returns)
- Completed Residence Permit for Family Reunion application form
3. Attend an interview at the German embassy/consulate in your country
You have to schedule an appointment to submit your visa application. At the interview you are required to submit the documents with the completed application form.
Make sure to arrive early and be prepared to answer questions about your plans.
You are also required to pay 75 EUR for the German national visa (D-Visa).
In addition, you may need to pay fees for translating documents, health Insurance, travel Costs and Immigration Lawyer Fees if you decide to contact Total law.
4. Wait for the visa decision
Processing times can vary depending on your country of origin, and your individual circumstances.
You will be notified about the decision via email or post.
5. If approved (non-EU/EEA citizens)
If approved, you are legally allowed to enter Germany with your D-Visa. You must register for a Residency Permit for Family Reunion within 3 months of arrival.
German Marriage Visa Processing Time
The processing time for a German marriage visa varies depending on different factors, such as where you applied and whether you have submitted all the required documents correctly.
Busier periods, such as peak seasons or unforeseen circumstances, can impact timeframes. During this time, the German visa registry office may have many more applications to process.
Typically, after submitting your complete application, you should receive an initial response within several weeks informing you about further steps.
We recommend starting the application process as early as possible. Ensure all documents are valid, translated into German if necessary, and in the required format. You can also seek professional immigration advice from the team at Total Law if needed.
Where Can I Apply For My Visa?
Overview
Generally, you can apply for a German Marriage Visa at the German embassy or consulate in your home country.
In some countries, the German government might have outsourced visa processing to visa application centres. However, the centres are often spread across different cities within a country, making it convenient for applicants to choose one that is closest to them.
Booking Appointments and Availability
Most German embassies and consulates require you to book an appointment for visa application online or by phone.
The booking procedure and availability will vary depending on the location. Check the specific embassy/consulate website for instructions.
Visa application centres usually operate on a walk-in basis, but most require appointments. Again, consult the respective centre’s website for details.
Addresses and Contact Information
Once you have identified a visa application centre or embassy, ensure to note down their address and contact information. It’s crucial that you have this information readily available as it will be needed when scheduling appointments or if any issues arise.
How Can Total Law Help?
Getting married in Germany involves extensive paperwork, stringent requirements, and can be an overwhelming process to navigate alone. Partner with our immigration lawyers at Total Law to streamline your application process.
With years of experience assisting clients move to the country through marriage and family reunification permits, we offer comprehensive legal guidance including:
- Determining the appropriate visa pathways
- Gathering and verifying all required documents
- Providing authentic document translations
- Checking application forms for completeness
- Liaising with German embassies/consulates
Whether you need assistance determining if you meet eligibility criteria or want legal support through the application process, the immigration lawyers at Total Law can help to facilitate your relocation efforts. Contact us today at +44 (0)333 305 9375 or message us online to get started.
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By choosing our Appeal Package, you can rely on our lawyers’ legal knowledge and experience to ensure you have the highest chance of a successful appeal. We will also fully represent you in any hearings/tribunals.
Related pages for your continued reading.
Frequently Asked Questions
While you can generally work in Germany with a Residence Permit for Family Reunion (not solely a marriage visa), it’s not always automatic. Some professions might require additional licensing or approvals based on your qualifications and the specific field.
The validity period of the initial D-Visa is usually 3 months. After entering Germany with this visa, you must apply for the Residence Permit for Family Reunion, which replaces the D-Visa, it is typically valid for one year but can be extended.
Yes, it is possible to apply for a Residence Permit for Family Reunion based on your relationship with a German citizen. It often involves proving your marriage is recognized in Germany, which might require additional documentation.
No, you will not be able to get married while holding a tourist (Schengen) visa is not permitted under German law. Individuals who wish to marry while visiting or residing temporarily must obtain the appropriate type of long-term stay or settlement permit.
When a person marries a German citizen and meets certain conditions, they may be eligible to obtain family reunification permits. These permits allow them to live and work in Germany without any time restrictions. To go through this process, there are specific requirements that need to be fulfilled, including providing documents such as the German spouse’s passport and other documents specified by immigration authorities.
