Family reunification in Germany is an important benefit that lets skilled workers bring their spouse and children to live together with them. This policy is one of the reasons many people choose Germany as a long-term settlement destination.
Who is eligible for family reunification in Germany
Skilled workers holding a valid residence permit in Germany can sponsor immediate family members. This group includes spouses, legally cohabiting partners and unmarried minor children.
Family members who come to Germany are also permitted to work, without the restrictions found in many other countries.
Language requirement
Theo the official Make it in Germany portal of the German Government, family members accompanying a skilled worker (under Section 18a or 18b of the Residence Act) are not required to prove German language proficiency.
This is an open provision that helps families reunite faster, instead of having to wait for a spouse to learn the language.
Documents and conditions
A reunification application generally requires a passport, documents proving a long-standing family relationship, and proof of sufficient financial capacity. The sponsor must also show adequate housing for the whole family.
Accompanying children are eligible to enroll in German public schools.
Advice for Vietnamese workers
You should prepare civil status documents and certified translations early, to submit as soon as you have the residence permit. This helps the family come to Germany in the shortest possible time.
To understand the long-term stability pathway, you can read more in the article Long-term settlement in Germany. The M2W team will also assist with the reunification application.
Read more: Overview of migrating to Germany · Accelerated skilled worker procedure in Germany (Section 81a)
