Family reunification in Germany is the right of skilled settlers to bring their spouse and children over. Family reunification in Germany has its own process. This article guides you through the procedure.
What is family reunification in Germany
Family reunification in Germany (Familiennachzug) is the process that allows settlers to bring close family members to live with them in Germany. It applies to spouses and dependent children under 18. It may be extended to parents in certain special cases.
The settler must hold a valid residence permit and meet income and housing requirements. Spouses may join provided the marriage is legally valid and language requirements are met (usually German A1 before arrival).
Conditions for spouses
Spouses coming under the Familiennachzug stream must: prove the marriage is legal (a legalised marriage certificate), have at least German A1 before submitting the application (with some exceptions), and have a sponsor with sufficient income and adequate housing.
Spouses of EU Blue Card holders receive preferential treatment: they do not need to prove German A1 beforehand, and can work full-time without restriction as soon as they arrive. This is a major advantage of the EU Blue Card over other streams.
Conditions for children
Children under 16 are usually allowed to join without proving German language ability. Children aged 16 to under 18 usually need German C1 or must show good integration prospects. Cases where the whole family moves together at the outset are usually processed more favourably.
Interested individuals should prepare family documents early: marriage certificate, children’s birth certificates (legalised), and proof of relationship. The rental agreement must meet the minimum living space (m2 per person) required in the state of residence.
You should refer to EU Blue Card Duc and Make it in Germany to check current conditions.
Summary
Family reunification in Germany (Familiennachzug) applies to spouses and dependent children under 18. Spouses need German A1 beforehand (waived for EU Blue Card) and gain unrestricted work rights (an advantage for EU Blue Card). Children under 16 need no German; those 16-18 need C1 or good integration. You should prepare legalised documents early.
