Applying for a residence permit for the spouse's reunification with foreigners

If you want to join your foreign spouse or partner in Germany, you can obtain a residence permit for family reunification if you meet certain requirements.

The residence permit can be issued if you and your spouse or partner have reached the age of 18, although the minimum age may be waived in certain cases.  

As a rule, you must prove basic language skills. With simple language skills, you should be able to communicate easily in everyday life on German, for example, ask for directions, shop and introduce yourself. There are several exceptions to the requirement of proof of language skills. If, for example, the foreign person is in possession of an EU ICT Blue Card or Mobile ICT Card, you do not need to prove your language skills. Information on other exceptions to language skills can be obtained from your competent authority.

The residence permit for family reunification is a temporary residence title. It is issued for the period of validity of the family member's residence permit in Germany - for at least one year. If the residence permit of the foreign person living in Germany is valid for less than one year, the residence permit is also issued for the shorter duration.

The residence permit issued for family reunification entitles the holder to engage in gainful employment.

Under certain circumstances, the Foreigners' Registration Office may oblige you to attend an integration course. This will then be noted on your residence permit.

The foreigners' authority responsible for the applicant's place of residence

• Valid passport
• Current biometric photo
• Visa, if required
• Residence permit of the foreign person in Germany to whom the reunification takes place
• In the case of family reunification with spouse: international marriage certificate as officially certified copy or marriage certificate in original language as an officially certified copy or marriage certificate checked by the German mission abroad for authenticity and correctness of content in original language and in German translation
• In the case of family reunification to the life partner: partnership certificate
• If applicable, proof of basic German language skills (A1 certificate)
• Proof of health insurance coverage
• Proof of subsistence
• Proof of housing conditions (e.g. rental agreement or purchase contract with information on the number of square meters of living space)

• Forms: Forms can be obtained from your immigration office, if necessary they are also offered online
• Online procedures possible in some cases
• Written form required: yes
• Personal appearance required: yes

• You have a recognized and valid passport or passport substitute and, if required for entry - an appropriate visa.
• There is no interest in expulsion against you.
• Your stay does not endanger or impair the interests of the Federal Republic of Germany.
• The foreign person in Germany has a valid residence permit, settlement permit, permanent residence permit, EU Blue Card, ICT card or mobile ICT card.
• You and your spouse or partner are at least 18 years old.
• You can prove basic language skills, if necessary.
• Your spouse or partner has sufficient health insurance coverage and financial resources to provide for your family.
• Your spouse or partner has successfully rented an apartment in Germany that offers enough space for your family.

The residence permit must be applied for at the immigration authority responsible for your place of residence. The procedure is as follows:

• Depending on the immigration authority and concerns, it may be possible to apply via the Internet. Find out whether your immigration authority offers the electronic application for a residence permit.
• If the application is only possible in person, make an appointment with the Foreigners' Registration Office. During the appointment, your application will be received and your supporting documents will be checked (bring them with you to the appointment). Your fingerprints will be taken for the production of an electronic residence permit (eAT).
• In the event of an electronic application, the Foreigners' Registration Office will contact you upon receipt of your online application in order to make an appointment at the Foreigners' Registration Office if necessary. During the appointment, your documents will be checked (bring them with you to the appointment) and your fingerprints will be taken for the production of the electronic residence title (eAT).
• If your application is granted, the Foreigners' Registration Office will arrange for the eAT.
• After about six to eight weeks, you can pick up the eAT at the Foreigners' Registration Office.
• The eAT must always be picked up in person.

Fees apply for the issuance of the residence permit. The timing and form of payment vary depending on the authority.

• The residence permit should be applied for at least eight weeks before the expiry of your valid visa.
• Opposition period: 1 month

about six to eight weeks

Issue of residence permit: EUR 100.00

Under certain conditions, a fee reduction or exemption may be considered.