How spouses and children can move to Germany through family reunification visa

If you have a spouse, partner or dependent child living in Germany, the country's family reunification visa could allow you to join them and live together in Germany. The visa is designed for close family members of German citizens and legal residents. It is issued as a national Type D visa and is typically valid for three to 12 months.

After arriving in Germany, visa holders must apply for a residence permit to continue their stay.

Who can apply?

The family reunification visa is generally available to:

• Spouses of German citizens or legal residents
• Registered or civil partners
• Dependent children of a German citizen or legal resident

The visa's purpose is to help families live together in Germany when one family member is already settled in the country.

What documents are required?

Applicants typically need to provide:

• A completed and signed visa application form
• A valid passport
• Two biometric passport photographs
• Marriage certificate (for spouses)
• Birth certificate (for children)
• German language certificate at A1 level
• Proof of the family member's citizenship or residence status in Germany
• Employment contract and recent payslips of the family member in Germany
• Rental agreement and registration certificate (Meldebescheinigung)
• Travel health insurance
• Proof of visa fee payment

Depending on individual circumstances, German authorities may request additional documents.

How do you apply?

Applications are usually submitted through a German embassy or consulate in the applicant's country of residence. In some locations, online application options may also be available.

After the application is reviewed and approved, the applicant can travel to Germany and complete the residence permit process with the local Foreigners' Office (Ausländerbehörde).

Who does not need an entry visa?

Citizens of Australia, Canada, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, the United Kingdom and the United States can enter Germany without a family reunification entry visa. They can apply directly for a residence permit after arriving in Germany.

How much does it cost?

According to Germany Visa, the family reunification visa fee is €75.

For families planning a move to Germany, the visa serves as the main pathway for spouses, partners and dependent children to join relatives who already live in the country legally.