Bringing your family to Germany is one of the most important steps in building a life here. Family reunification (Familiennachzug) allows spouses, registered partners, and minor children to join a person who already holds a valid German residence permit. The rules are strict — but with the right preparation, the process is navigable.
Core Requirements
The sponsor (person already in Germany) must: hold a qualifying residence permit (Aufenthaltserlaubnis, Niederlassungserlaubnis, or EU Blue Card), have adequate housing for the whole family (rule of thumb: at least 12 m² per person), and be able to support the family financially without drawing social benefits.
The joining spouse must: be at least 18 years old, demonstrate basic German language skills at A1 level (with some exceptions), and apply for a national visa (D visa) at the German embassy in their home country before travelling.
Step-by-Step Process
1. Language test: The joining spouse takes a German A1 test (Goethe A1 or equivalent) at a certified test centre in their home country. 2. Visa application at the German embassy: With marriage certificate (certified + apostilled + translated), proof of sponsor's permit and income, housing proof. 3. Entry to Germany: After visa approval. 4. Residence permit application: Within 90 days of arrival at the local Ausländerbehörde.
Processing times at embassies vary enormously — from 2 months to over a year depending on the country. Plan well ahead.
A1 Language Requirement: Exceptions
The A1 requirement can be waived in several cases: if the sponsor holds an EU Blue Card, a Niederlassungserlaubnis under § 19 or § 21, or certain other permits. Waivers also apply in cases of physical or mental incapacity, or when learning German is demonstrably impossible. For children under 16, no language test is required.
Family reunification is one of the most complex areas of German immigration law. Errors in documentation can mean months of delays. Sylum guides your family through the entire process — from document preparation to permit issuance. Contact us at sylum.de/contact.
