Germany Spouse Visa: Your Complete Guide to Family Reunification

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WANT TO JOIN YOUR SPOUSE IN GERMANY? HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Moving to Germany to be with your spouse is exciting, but the visa process can feel overwhelming. The Germany Spouse Visa allows non-EU partners to live and work in Germany, reuniting families smoothly when you follow the right steps.

This guide walks you through everything to help your application succeed.

WHAT IS THE GERMANY SPOUSE VISA?

The spouse visa (also called the family reunification visa) lets you join your spouse who legally lives in Germany. Once approved, you can live, work, and study in Germany.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE?

You are married to a German citizen or a legal resident (EU or non-EU)
Your marriage is legally recognized
You meet the basic financial and housing requirements
You pass basic German language skills (usually A1 level)

THE APPLICATION PROCESS IN 5 STEPS

1. GATHER DOCUMENTS

Common requirements include marriage certificate, passports, proof of accommodation, health insurance, and proof of income.

2. PROVE BASIC GERMAN LANGUAGE SKILLS

You usually need at least A1 German language certification before applying.

3. APPLY AT YOUR LOCAL GERMAN CONSULATE OR EMBASSY

Submit your visa application and documents.

4. ATTEND THE INTERVIEW

Answer questions about your relationship and future plans.

5. WAIT FOR VISA APPROVAL

Processing times vary from a few weeks up to 3 months.

IMPORTANT THINGS TO KNOW

Your spouse in Germany must have a secure income to support both of you.
If you don’t have German language skills yet, you may need to attend a language course after arriving.
Once in Germany, you must register your address at the local Bürgeramt (residents’ office).

REAL-LIFE EXAMPLE: HOW LISA JOINED HER HUSBAND IN BERLIN

Lisa married a German citizen and applied for her spouse visa from Brazil. She prepared all documents carefully, passed the A1 German test, and after 8 weeks, she received her visa and moved to Berlin to start her new life.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Do I need to know German before applying?
Yes, basic A1 level is usually required.

Can I work in Germany with the spouse visa?
Yes, once your visa is approved, you can work and study.

How long does the visa process take?
Typically 6–12 weeks, but it varies by consulate.

Can unmarried partners apply?
Usually no — the spouse visa is for legally married couples.

FINAL THOUGHTS: MAKE YOUR FAMILY REUNION SMOOTH AND SUCCESSFUL

Preparing your Germany spouse visa application carefully and knowing the steps helps you avoid delays and stress.

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