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Residence Permit for Family Reunification
GermanyGermany•Europe
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Residence Permit for Family Reunification

Residency Pathway PR PathwayThis visa can lead to permanent residency, the right to live and work here indefinitely without renewing your visa. Remote Work

At a Glance

Processing Time

3–6 months

Estimated Cost

EUR €138–€175

Varies by filing options

Stay Duration

Matches sponsor

Renewable

Renewal

Renewable

Family

Not specified

PR Pathway

Yes

Sponsor

No job offer needed

Work

Remote work OK

Apply Now Official Information
Germany flag

Living in Germany

Cost of Living
2% cheaper than United States
Avg Salary€36,000
Quality of Life
195/200
Full Country Guide

Overview

For spouses, minor children, and parents to join legal residents or German citizens.

The German Residence Permit for Family Reunification (§§ 27-36 AufenthG) allows spouses, minor children, and parents to join a legal resident or German citizen. Sponsors must show sufficient income, adequate housing, and — for spouses — at least A1 German.

Stay matches the sponsor's permit and is renewable, with a path to permanent settlement after 5 years. Work is immediately permitted with no restrictions. Visa costs EUR 75 (adults) or EUR 37.50 (minors); residence permit costs EUR 100. Processing takes 3–6 months.

This visa is ideal for non-EU spouses, children, and parents who want to live permanently in Germany with a family member holding a valid residence permit or citizenship.

Germany

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Cost Breakdown

Visa fee (adult)EUR €75
Visa fee (minor)EUR €38
Residence permitEUR €100
TotalEUR €138–€175

Requirements

PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS

Sponsor has valid residence permit

Proof of sufficient living space

Proof of financial means

A1 German for spouses

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Marriage/Birth certificates

Proof of sponsor's income

Proof of housing

Language certificate

Advantages & Considerations

Key Benefits

  • Right to live with family
  • Work authorization included

Worth Knowing

  • Strict financial and housing proof
  • Language requirements for spouses
  • Insufficient income
  • Lack of housing
  • Missing language requirements

Application Process

1

Visa application at embassy

2

Entry to Germany

3

Registration and residence permit application

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