Family members of German citizens

If you hold a residence permit as a result of joining a German family member, you can apply for a settlement permit after only three years if you continue to live with your German family members (family cohabitation).

This page lists the requirements necessary to the granting of a settlement permit and specifies which documents you must submit for this purpose.

Requirements

1. Holder of a residence permit for three years
   In order to be granted a settlement permit, you must have held a residence permit for the purpose of family reunification with your German family members for three years.
    
2. Family relationship
   The family relationship with your German family member must continue. This means that you continue to live with your German family member or (in the case of German children) care for your child on a regular basis.
    
3. Sufficient knowledge of German
   You have sufficient knowledge of the German language. This corresponds to level B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.
    
4. Covering living expenses
   You can cover your own (and your family’s) living expenses without applying for public benefits. This means that you do not receive public benefits such as those from the Job Centre.
    
5. Health insurance
   You and your family members must have sufficient health insurance cover. This is the case if you have statutory health insurance or equivalent private health insurance.
    
6. No criminal offences
   You must not commit any criminal offences in Germany. In this case, even fines may prevent the granting of a settlement permit.

If you meet the requirements, you will usually be granted a settlement permit.

Please bring the following with you…

If you wish to apply for a settlement permit as a family member of a German citizen, 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
• Employment contract
• Current salary statements
• Tenancy agreement (and current rent certificate, if available)
• Proof of health insurance
• B1 language certificate
• Fee: € 113.00

Further documents may be required in individual cases. If this applies to you, we will inform you accordingly.

If you are applying for a residence permit to join your German spouse, you must appear before us together.

Please note: An appointment is required to receive the settlement permit. Please send us an appointment request.