Germany Family Visa

Germany Family Visa

Do you have a family member residing in Germany whom you haven't seen in a while, and you're longing to reunite with them? The German family visa provides a solution for bringing your relatives to join you in Germany.

This comprehensive guide addresses whether you require a German family reunification visa, the eligible individuals, prerequisites, the application process, FAQs, and more.

What is Germany Family Visa?

If you have a family member in Germany whom you wish to join, the German family visa, also known as the German family reunification visa, enables foreign nationals to reunite with their relatives in Germany for an extended period. This visa offers numerous benefits, making it easier for individuals with connections in Germany to relocate.

Who Needs a German Family Visa?

Whether you need a German family visa depends on your nationality. Citizens or nationals of the EU, EEA, and EFTA countries do not require a family visa. However, individuals from non-member countries must apply for a German family reunification visa.

Who is Eligible for a Germany Family Visa?

The main family members eligible for a German family reunification visa include:

1. Spouse/partner
2. Minor children
3. Parent

Eligibility Criteria:

1. For spouses/partners:

• The sponsor must have a valid residence permit in Germany, such as an EU long-term residence permit or an EU Blue Card.
• Adequate funds to support the spouse/partner.
• Attainment of the legal consent age (18 and above).
• Proficiency in the German language.

2. For immigrants:

• Minimum age of 18.
• Proficiency in German, at least at a basic level.

The German government does not recognize polygamy; therefore, a sponsor who has already sponsored a partner cannot bring another.

3. For children:

• Requirements vary based on the age of the child.
• For minor children, parents residing in Germany can bring them, and single parents must have full legal rights.
• Additional requirements apply for adult children.

4. For parents:

• Sufficient funds to cover parents' expenses.

5. For other relatives:

• Siblings, uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, grandparents, and cousins can apply, but the process is challenging and often granted to prevent hardship.

Germany Family Visa Requirements:

The necessary documents for a German family visa include:

• Passport
• Application form
• Recent photo
• Health insurance
• Proof of sufficient funds
• Invitation letter
• Proof of accommodation
• Language proficiency skill (at least A1)
• Cover letter

Specific Requirements for Spouse/Partner:

• Marriage certificate attested by a foreign officer and translated by a verified translator.
• Passport/ID copy of the German spouse or partner.
• Proof of legal residence for a non-German spouse or partner.

Specific Requirements for Children:

• Birth certificate
• Evidence of the child's nationality
• Proof of the parent's right to keep the child
• Additional documents depending on circumstances

All documents must be translated into English or German by a verified translator and attested.

Germany Family Visa Application Process:

• Verify the necessity of a visa.
• Ensure eligibility for both the sponsor and immigrant.
• Obtain the application form from the German embassy or consulate.
• Gather required documents.
• Schedule a visa appointment.
• Pay the visa processing fee.
• Wait for processing and either receive the visa by mail or pick it up.

After Arrival in Germany:

Immigrants must register at a local registration office within the first two weeks. Language courses and additional requirements may apply.

Germany Family Visa Fee/Cost:

The visa processing fee is 75 EUR for adults and 37.50 EUR for children under 18, subject to change. Fees may vary by country, and payments are non-refundable if the application is rejected.

Can I Work Under a German Family Visa?

Adult immigrants can work if the sponsor holds a relevant residence permit, an EU Blue Card, or is a highly skilled person or researcher.

Germany Family Visa Processing Time:

Processing times vary based on document completeness, embassy workload, application timing, and individual circumstances. Applicants can inquire about processing times during the interview.

Can I Extend my Germany Family Visa?

Yes, a German family visa can be extended as long as the sponsor maintains legal residence.

In summary, this guide covers all aspects of the German family visa, including its purpose, eligibility, requirements, application process, and FAQs. For more information on other types of German visas, explore the left sidebar, and for details on visas from other countries, visit Allvisa's homepage. Readers are encouraged to share their visa-related experiences and tips in the comments section below.