Your Guide to Germany Family Reunion Visa for Indian Travelers

The Family Reunion Visa, also known as the Family Reunification Visa, is specifically designed for non-German family members wishing to join their relatives legally residing in Germany for long-term stays (over 90 days).

There are two primary visa types relevant to this situation:

• Short Visits: For stays up to 90 days, travelers should apply for a Schengen Visa Type C.
• Long-Term Family Reunification: A National Visa Type D is necessary for those planning to reside in Germany.

In addition to living in Germany, this visa allows holders to travel within other Schengen countries for tourism for a maximum of 90 days.

Who Can Apply?

• Immediate Family Members: This includes spouses and minor children of individuals legally residing in Germany.
• Foreign Minors: They can bring their parents for care under specific situations.
• Unmarried Partners: They may qualify under certain conditions like pregnancy.
• Exceptional Cases: Other family members (such as siblings and grandparents) can be included under exceptional circumstances.

Who Can Be Joined?

To sponsor their family members, applicants must be German citizens or foreign nationals holding a valid residence permit or an EU long-term residence permit. They must have adequate living space and the financial capability to support the incoming family members.

When applying for the Family Reunion Visa, you must prepare two complete sets of the following documents:

• Valid Passport: Issued within the last 10 years and at least 2 blank pages.
• Completed Application Form: Ensure all entries are correct and complete.
• Biometric Photos: Passport-sized, taken in the last three months.
• Proof of Legal Residence: This could be a visa, Green Card, or passport.
• Proof of Address: Such as a utility bill.

Other important supporting documents may include:

• Marriage certificate or registered partnership proof for spouses.
• Birth certificates for children or parents.
• Evidence of sufficient income and accommodation in Germany.
• Health insurance coverage.
• Proof of German language proficiency may be required in selected cases.

Important! Incomplete documentation may lead to application rejection.

To ensure a smooth application process for the Family Reunion Visa, follow these steps:

1. Gather Required Documents: Compile all documents as listed above.
2. Set an Appointment: Reach out to your nearest German embassy or consulate to book an appointment.
3. Submit Application: Visit in person for your appointment, bringing your documents arranged in the specified order.
4. Interview & Biometrics: Be prepared for a possible interview and collection of biometric data.
5. Visa Processing: The application will be reviewed, sometimes involving the local Aliens’ Authority (Ausländerbehörde) in Germany.
6. Receive Visa: Upon approval, you will receive your National Visa Type D, allowing entry into Germany for family reunification.

• Any person intending to stay in Germany for over 90 days requires a residence permit, regardless of nationality.
• Additional requirements may apply, particularly language and integration courses for spouses of non-EU citizens.
• After arriving in Germany, further steps may be necessary to validate the residence permit through the local Aliens’ Authority.
• While reunification visas permit tourism to other Schengen states, they are primarily for residence in Germany.

1. How long does the Family Reunion Visa processing take?

The processing time can vary depending on the embassy or consulate. Generally, it can take several weeks to months.

2. Can I work in Germany with a Family Reunion Visa?

Yes, once you have your residence permit, you may be allowed to work in Germany.

3. Is it necessary to know German for the Family Reunion Visa?

Proof of German language proficiency may be required, especially for certain family members.

4. What is the cost of applying for a Family Reunion Visa?

Application fees can vary, so it’s best to check with the relevant consulate or embassy.