How to Bring Your Loved Ones to Germany: A Guide to the Family Reunion Visa
When living by yourself in a foreign land, it is natural that you will long for your family to be with you. This is no different from living in a country like Germany. This is where the Family Reunion Visa comes in.
Your spouse, children, or other eligible family members can legally join you in Germany. This article will elaborate on the application process, eligibility criteria, and other legal requirements so that your application process will be a smooth one.
Importance of Reuniting with Family in Germany
- Improves family bonds and emotional well-being
- Gives emotional support to those living by themselves in Germany. Improving their mental well-being.
- Improves stability and cultural integration
- Children will grow up in a secure family-oriented environment.
- Better career and educational opportunities.
Who Needs This Visa?
- It is for the spouses and children of German residents.
- The parents of minor children living in Germany.
- Other eligible family members (as per immigration laws).
- Non-EU nationals who wish to join their family in Germany.
What is a Family Reunion Visa?
Now what exactly is a Family Reunion Visa? It is a visa that allows non-EU family members to join those living in Germany. It ensures family unification in a way that all the applicant’s loved ones will java a legal route to to live together in Germany.
Types of Family Reunion Visas in Germany
What are the types of Family Reunion Visas available? They are as follows:
- Spouse Visa – For married partners of German residents.
- Child Visa – For children joining their parents in Germany.
- Parent Visa – For parents joining their children in Germany.
- Other Family Members – In rare cases, other close relatives may qualify.
Legal Basis and German Immigration Laws
Many legal basis and immigration laws govern the Family Reunion visa:
German immigration policies are based on laws like the Residence Act (Aufenthaltsgesetz), which outlines the family reunification process for non-EU citizens.
The German Residence Act (Section 27-36) sets out the requirements for family reunification.
- The EU Freedom of Movement Act applies to EU citizens who wish to bring their families to Germany or the EU.
- Certain agreements between non-EU countries and Germany will also govern the process.
Who Can Apply for a Family Reunion Visa?
So who is eligible to apply for a Family Reunion Visa?
- Spouses of German citizens/residents – Must provide proof of marriage and language proficiency (A1 level for spouses).
- Children joining parents – Must be under 18 and have parental consent.
- Parents joining children – Allowed under specific conditions.
- Other eligible family members – Subject to approval under exceptional cases.
- Refugee family reunification – If the resident has refugee status, different rules may apply.
Eligibility Criteria of Family Reunion Visa
The following are the requirements for the Family Reunion Visa
| Residence Permit | The applicant family member must have a valid residence permit. |
| Financial Means | Proof of financial stability to show you don’t require financial aid from the government. |
| Accommodation | Proof of accommodation that is suitable for a family. This is subject to the size of the family. |
| Health Insurance | Family members should have health insurance in Germany. |
| Language Proficiency | A-1 level German language certificate is required for spouses. |
| Marital Status | The marriage must be legally recognised by German authorities. |
Step-by-Step Application Process
Here are the step-by-step application process that you must keep in mind when applying for the visa:
Gather Required Documents
The following documents are required:
- Valid passport.
- Proof of relationship (marriage/birth certificate).
- Residence permit
- Financial documents
- German language certificate for spouse (if required).
- Health insurance.
- Housing contract with adequate accommodation.
Where to Apply?
- German Embassy/Consulate. For residents of Kerala, the closest German Consulates are in Chennai and Bangalore while the Embassy is in New Delhi.
- Online application submission via the German mission website.
- Appointment at the visa office for biometric verification.
Visa Processing Time and Fees
- Processing time: 8-12 weeks. Can be extended if more background checks are required.
- Fee: Approximately €75 (subject to change). Additional costs may be incurred for translations and additional documents
- Expedited Processing: In some cases, fast-track options may be available.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
- Language Barrier Issues – It is prudent to enroll in a German language course early on.
- Document Verification Delays – There might be delays for document verification so double-check before submitting them to reduce delays.
- Visa Rejection and Reapplication – In case of visa rejection, find out the reason, address and reapply with corrections.
- Long Processing Times – You can avoid delays by applying well in advance
- Legal Complications – In case of legal complications, seek professional advice.
Life in Germany After Reunion
- Residence Permit Registration – You must register yourself at the local authority (Bürgeramt).
- Rights and Responsibilities – Family members are advised to be familiar with their rights and responsibilities. Special emphasis on the rights part.
- Integration Courses – Attend integration courses so that family members may adjust to the language and culture of Germany.
- Education and Healthcare Access – Family members have the right to access education, healthcare and other public services.
- Employment Opportunities – Depending on the visa conditions, the spouses can also work.
- Social Benefits – Certain family members can be eligible for social benefits
For seamless visa processing and application tracking, visit our Digital Portal Visa.
Conclusion
It takes careful preparation to bring your family to Germany. Gathering the right documents, and jumping the many proverbial hoops of the application process takes time. You can always seek professional help to mitigate the process. By understanding the process the entire relocation of your family will be hassle-free and smooth.
FAQs
