Germany Family Reunification Visa: Application Process

Germany is one of the most popular immigration destinations in the world. It offers numerous opportunities for both immigrants and refugees, including family reunification visas. This type of visa allows family members of German residents to come and live in the country. In this article, we’ll discuss the Germany family reunification visa application process, including its requirements, processing time, and costs.

Requirements for Germany Family Reunification Visa

To apply for a family reunification visa in Germany, the applicant needs to fulfill certain criteria. The German government mandates the following prerequisites for a family reunion visa:

1. Sponsorship from the resident in Germany

The sponsor for the visa should be a person like a spouse, a parent, or a sibling who already resides in Germany and has a valid residence permit. This person must sign the necessary paperwork and provide all the necessary documents to the German embassy or consulate where the applicant applies.

2. Proof of relationship with the sponsor

The applicant must prove the relation between them and the sponsor. For instance, a marriage certificate, birth certificate, or any other official document that can prove the links between the two parties can serve as proof.

3. Sufficient living space

The sponsor should provide adequate living arrangements before the applicant’s arrival in Germany, such as a house or apartment with enough space for everyone.

4. Adequate financial support

The sponsor should be able to financially support the family members arriving in Germany. The German government requires the sponsor to have a stable income, which can support the entire family’s financial needs.

5. Language proficiency requirements

The sponsoring resident should demonstrate language proficiency or pass a language test from a recognized institution to show the ability to communicate in German. Conversely, the applicant can take a German language test for beginners.

The Germany Family Reunification Visa Application Process

To apply for a family reunification visa, one needs to follow the steps below:

Step 1: Obtain necessary documents

The applicant should gather and prepare all the necessary documents, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, passports, and German language proficiency certificates.

Step 2: Contact German Embassy or Consulate

The next step is to contact the German embassy or consulate where the applicant plans to apply for the visa. They should make an appointment and inquire about the current requirements for a family reunion visa application.

Step 3: Submit visa application

The applicant should submit the visa application and all required documents to the German embassy or consulate where they booked their appointment. There is a visa application fee that varies based on the applicant’s nationality and their age.

Step 4: Wait for processing

The processing time for a Germany family reunification visa varies. It can range from a few days to several months, depending on the embassy’s location and the number of applications that are pending.

Step 5: Receive visa decision

Once the embassy or consulate issues the decision on the application, they’ll inform the applicant. If the decision is positive, the applicant can obtain the visa and make arrangements to go to Germany.

FAQs about Germany Family Reunification Visa

1. Can I apply for a Germany family reunification visa if I am a refugee?

Yes, refugees can apply for a family reunification visa if they meet all the requirements.

2. Can I work in Germany with a family reunification visa?

Yes, family reunification visa holders can work in Germany once they arrive in the country. However, finding a job is their responsibility.

3. How long does it take to get a family reunification visa?

The processing time for a family reunification visa varies but can take anywhere from a few days to several months, depending on the embassy’s location and the number of applications that are pending.

4. Can I apply for permanent residency after receiving a family reunification visa?

Yes, family members who have received a family reunification visa may apply for permanent residency in Germany after living in the country for a certain number of years, fulfilling other criteria like income and language proficiency.

5. Can I bring my children to Germany with a family reunification visa?

Yes, children can come to Germany with a family reunification visa if they’re under the age of 18. For children over the age of 18, they can only apply for a family reunification visa if they’re dependent on the sponsor or if they have special circumstances like disability.