Family Reunion Visa (Ehegattennachzug)

To qualify for this visa, both the "sponsor" (the person already in Germany) and the "applicant" (the family member joining them) must meet strict criteria regarding status, finances, and living conditions.

1. Eligible Applicants

• Spouses and Registered Partners: Both partners must be at least 18 years old at the time of application.
• Minor Children: Unmarried children under the age of 18.
• Parents of Minors: If the child living in Germany is a minor and holds a valid residence permit.
• Parents of Skilled Workers: Under a recent expansion (Section 36 para. 3 AufenthG), parents can join a "skilled worker" (e.g., Blue Card holder) only if the sponsor first entered Germany on or after March 1, 2024.
• Other Relatives: Siblings or adult children are only eligible in cases of "exceptional hardship" (Härtefall). These cases are extremely rare and difficult to prove legally.

2. Sponsor Requirements

The person already in Germany must hold a valid Settlement Permit, EU Blue Card, EU Long-term Residence Permit, or a standard Temporary Residence Permit.

3. Key Thresholds

• Financial Stability: The sponsor must demonstrate they can support the entire family without relying on German social security or public funds (Sicherung des Lebensunterhalts).
• Adequate Housing: You must prove you have enough living space. The general rule is approximately 12 square meters per person for family members aged six and older.
• Language Proficiency: Most spouses must prove A1 level German language skills. You are exempt from this requirement if the sponsor holds an EU Blue Card, is a highly qualified researcher, or if the applicant spouse holds a recognized university degree.