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Family reunification
Regarding German citizens
If you have a German spouse and / or a German child, you can obtain a residence permit for the purpose of joining them in Germany.
The residence permit for the purpose of family reunification is issued to you on the grounds of family cohabitation. If you have a German spouse, the residence permit will be issued for the purpose of living together as a couple. If you have a German child, you will be granted a residence permit for the purpose of caring for your child.
Please bring the following with you…
If you wish to apply for or extend your residence permit for the purpose of family reunification with your German relative, please bring the following documents with you (if we do not already have them):
- Your valid passport
- A current passport photo
- A completed application form
- Proof that you are able to cover your living expenses (e.g. salary statements, employment contract, certificate of social benefits)
- Proof of health insurance
- (Child’s) passport or ID card of your spouse or child
- For German spouses: Marriage certificate and proof of A1 German language skills according to the Common European Framework of Reference
- For German children: Child’s birth certificate, custody declaration as applicable (in the case of illegitimate children)
- Fee: up to € 100.00
Further documents may be required in individual cases. If this applies to you, we will inform you accordingly.
If you are also applying for a residence permit on behalf of your spouse, you and your spouse must make a joint personal appointment.
Please note: An appointment is required for the granting and extension of the residence permit. Please send us an appointment request.
Period of validity of the residence permit
The residence permit for the purpose of family reunification is usually issued for three years.
An extension is then also possible for three years.
In the case of a residence permit for the purpose of family reunification with a German child, however, the extension is usually only possible until the child reaches the age of majority.
Paid employment
Pursuing paid employment is permitted if you have been issued a residence permit for the purpose of family reunification. This means that you can take up employment or become self-employed.
Settling down
After a period of three years in which you are in possession of the residence permit for the purpose of family reunification with your German family members, you may apply for a settlement permit (permanent residence permit). You can find further information on the page about the settlement permit.
Please note: If you wish to acquire German citizenship, this is also possible as a family member of a German citizen already in possession of a temporary residence permit. Further information on this can be obtained from the relevant naturalisation office.