Does my spouse need to speak German before coming?

As a rule spouses must show basic German at level A1 before entry, but there are important exceptions - for example spouses joining EU Blue Card holders, researchers and certain other skilled workers may be exempt.

Can children come too?

Yes. Minor, unmarried children can generally join a parent or the parent who holds custody. Documentation of the relationship and, in some cases, consent of the other parent is required.

Can a reunited spouse work?

Yes. Family members receive a residence permit, and spouses of many skilled workers and EU Blue Card holders are granted immediate access to the German labour market.

Long-stay visas (Type D)

German Family Reunification Visa

A national visa allowing spouses, registered partners and minor children to join a family member living lawfully in Germany.

Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced

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Important information

Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Germany government website before you apply.

On this page

Who it's for
Requirements
What you can do
How to apply
Documents
Frequently asked questions

Issued by: German mission abroad; residence permit by the Ausländerbehörde
Who can join: Spouse / registered partner and minor unmarried children (other relatives only in hardship cases)
Language: Spouses generally need German A1 before entry, with exceptions
Conditions: Secured livelihood and adequate accommodation
Minimum age: Both spouses generally at least 18

Who it's for

Spouses and registered partners of people living lawfully in Germany
Minor, unmarried children joining a parent (or the parent with custody)
Parents of an unaccompanied minor in Germany and other relatives only in exceptional hardship cases

Requirements

A qualifying sponsor in Germany (German citizen or holder of a suitable residence title)
Valid marriage/partnership or parent-child relationship, with legalised/translated certificates
Basic German (A1) for spouses before entry, unless an exception applies
Secured livelihood for the family (income sufficient without state support in most cases)
Adequate accommodation
Both spouses generally at least 18 years old

What you can do

Live in Germany with your family member
Access the labour market (immediately for spouses of many skilled workers and Blue Card holders)
Attend integration/language courses
Build up residence toward your own settlement permit over time

How to apply

The family member abroad applies for a family reunification national visa at the competent German mission in their country of residence.

Provide proof of the relationship, language ability (for spouses, where required), and the sponsor's income and accommodation.

After arrival, register the address and apply for the residence permit at the local foreigners' authority.

Documents

Valid passport and biometric photos
Marriage/partnership certificate or birth certificate (legalised/translated as required)
German A1 certificate for spouses (unless exempt)
Sponsor's proof of residence title, income and accommodation
Proof of health insurance
Completed national visa application form

Frequently asked questions

As a rule spouses must show basic German at level A1 before entry, but there are important exceptions - for example spouses joining EU Blue Card holders, researchers and certain other skilled workers may be exempt.

Official sources

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.

Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.

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