Here, we will explain the purpose and scope of the family member reunification scheme for Germany, the eligibility criteria, and the application process. For expert assistance with your immigration matter, contact Reiss Edwards, immigration lawyers and solicitors in London.
A key consideration for many from outside of the EEA/EU who make the decision to move to Germany is whether they can bring their dependant family members with them. Thankfully, this is possible under the German family reunification scheme. Here, we will explain how the family reunification process works in Germany, the eligibility criteria, and the application process.
Yes, if you are a non-EU/EEA citizen living in Germany, you will be able to bring your spouse and children with you. It is important to note that if you are a national of a country outside of the EEA or EU but your family members are from a country in the EU/EEA, then they will be able to join you under the EU’s rules of free movement. This means they do not need to apply for a visa and can live, work, and study without being subject to any restrictions.
If your spouse and children are from a country outside of the EEA/EU, they will still be able to join you as long as you:
To qualify for family reunification in Germany, spouses must be at least 18 years of age. To bring your child/ren to Germany, they must be under 18 years of age and not be married, divorced or widowed.
In situations involving single parents bringing their children to join them in Germany, evidence of having gained legal custody will be essential.
Family members may also be required to meet the German language requirements. This means that spouses must meet the German language level A1 (CEFR) standard. This does not include spouses of and children of EU Blue Card holders. For children over 16 years of age, the language requirement is at level C1 (CEFR).
There are several advantages to family reunification in Germany, including:
The first stage of the family reunification application process is to make an appointment with a German embassy in the country where your family members live. The embassy will book a time and date for your family members to visit and explain the documents they will need to bring, including:
At the appointment, the applicant will need to submit the required documents and pay the EUR75.00 application fee (this is EUR37.50 for children). If approved, the German immigration authorities will grant the required visas, at which time you can make arrangements for your family members to travel to Germany to be with you.
Having arrived in Germany, your family members will then need to apply for a residence permit within three months with their local immigration office.
The steps involved in applying for a residence permit are as follows:
Once approved, residence permits will then be issued for each family member.