Germany is a top destination for work, study, and long-term residence. But being away from your spouse at that time can be challenging. The Germany Spouse Visa, also known as the Germany spouse reunification visa that allows married partners of German residents or citizens to join them and live together legally in Germany.
This guide explains everything you need to know about the family visa, including eligibility, requirements, processing time, documents, and how to apply from India.
Table Of Content
1What Is the Spouse Visa Called in Germany?2Who Is Eligible to Apply for the Family Reunion Visa Germany?3Germany Spouse Visa Requirements4Germany Spouse Visa Language Requirements5How to Apply for the Germany Spouse Visa from India6Germany Spouse Visa Checklist (Documents You Need)7Germany Spouse Visa Validity and Renewal Rules8Germany Spouse Visa Processing Time9Common Mistakes That Cause Delays (Based on Real Cases)10Conclusion11Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Spouse Visa Called in Germany?
The spouse visa is officially known as the Family Reunion Visa for Spouses or Visum zur Familienzusammenführung – Ehegattennachzug.
It allows the legal spouse of:
- a German citizen,
- a permanent resident, or
- a foreign national with a valid long-term residence permit
to join them in Germany and live together. This visa promotes family unity and also allows certain work or study rights once you receive your residence permit in Germany.
Who Is Eligible to Apply for the Family Reunion Visa Germany?
Eligibility for the family reunion visa Germany depends on your relationship with the resident in Germany and the type of residence permit they hold. Eligible applicants typically include:
- Spouse or registered partner of a German citizen or resident.
- Minor children (under 18) of the sponsor.
- Parents of minor children residing in Germany (in specific cases).
- Adult children may also qualify under certain circumstances (e.g., if dependent or disabled).
Applicants must prove a genuine family relationship and meet specific requirements, such as language skills and financial stability of the sponsor.
Germany Spouse Visa Requirements
To successfully apply for the Germany spouse visa, both the applicant in India and the sponsor in Germany must meet specific criteria.
Eligibility Requirements for the Sponsor (Partner in Germany):
- Must be a German citizen, permanent resident, or foreign national with a valid residence permit (EU Blue Card, skilled worker permit, etc.)
- Must have sufficient income to support their spouse.
- Must have adequate accommodation for both partners.
- Must have valid health insurance in Germany.
Eligibility Requirements for the Applicant (Spouse in India):
- Must be 18 years or older.
- Must provide a valid marriage certificate.
- Must show basic German language skills (A1 level).
(Exemptions apply in some cases, such as marriage to an EU Blue Card holder.) - Must have a valid passport and meet all document requirements.
These requirements make sure that the couple can live together in a stable and secure environment in Germany.
Germany Spouse Visa Language Requirements
For the Germany reunification visa for spouse, most applicants must show proof of basic German language skills at A1 level (CEFR). This makes sure that the spouse can handle everyday communication after arriving in Germany.
Accepted A1 German Certificates
The German Embassy accepts A1 certificates only from officially recognized providers:
- Goethe-Institut – Start Deutsch 1
- telc GmbH – telc Deutsch A1
- ÖSD – Grundstufe Deutsch 1
- TestDaF Institute (A1 level tests where available)
These certificates must be submitted during the visa application at the German Embassy or Consulate.
Expert Note from CanApprove:
“A large percentage of rejections occur due to invalid or unrecognized A1 certificates. Always verify your test provider before booking.”
How to Apply for the Germany Spouse Visa from India
The process to apply for the spouse visa Germany from India involves the following steps:
1. Check Eligibility: Confirm your spouse/child/parent in Germany has a valid residence permit or is a German citizen.
2. Collect Documents: Gather all required documents (passport, forms, photos, marriage proof, residence permit copies, A1 German proof if needed).
3. Book VFS Appointment: Schedule your appointment at VFS Global for document submission and biometrics.
4. Attend the Appointment: Submit documents, give fingerprints, pay the visa fee, and attend the short interview.
5. Wait for Processing: Processing takes 3 months or more (faster if applying with a skilled-worker spouse).
6. Get Visa Decision: VFS will inform you when your passport is ready.
7. Travel to Germany: Carry all originals, register your address, and complete local procedures after arrival.
Pro tip : Always make sure that the documents are complete and verified to avoid delays.
Germany Spouse Visa Checklist (Documents You Need)
Here’s the document checklist for the Germany spouse reunification visa we need:
- Valid passport (applicant and sponsor)
- Visa application form (duly filled and signed)
- Passport-size photographs (as per German specifications)
- Marriage certificate or birth certificate
- Residence permit of the family member in Germany
- Proof of accommodation in Germany
- Financial proof of the sponsor (salary slips, employment contract)
- Health insurance coverage proof
- Language certificate
- Any additional documents requested by the embassy
Having all documents ready ensures a smoother process. You can download the complete document checklists for Family Reunion Visa for spouses from here.
Germany Spouse Visa Processing Time
The Germany spouse visa processing time can vary depending on the applicant’s nationality and the complexity of the case. Generally:
- From India: 2–3 months on average, but sometimes longer
- Faster approval if your spouse is a highly skilled worker (EU Blue Card, skilled worker permit) and you apply within 6 months of their arrival
- Early application is recommended to avoid delays
- The Embassy may request additional documents, which can extend processing time
Checking with your local German Embassy in India for updates is advised.
Experience Insight from CanApprove:
“Most delays happen when the Ausländerbehörde requests additional documents from Germany. Ensuring your spouse’s documents are up-to-date speeds up the process.”
Germany Spouse Visa Validity and Renewal Rules
Visa Validity
- The spouse visa is normally issued for at least 90 days to enter Germany
- After landing, it must be converted into a residence permit
Residence Permit Duration & Renewal
- Usually valid for 1 to 3 years depending on the sponsor’s permit
- Can be renewed if the relationship continues and requirements are met
Work Rights
- Spouses of skilled workers, permanent residents, and German citizens usually receive full work rights
- You can work, study, or take vocational training depending on the sponsor’s status
Always adhere to German immigration rules to maintain legal status
Common Mistakes That Cause Delays (Based on Real Cases)
- A1 certificate from unrecognized institutions
- Missing apostille on marriage certificates
- Incomplete proof of accommodation
- Incorrect or blurred document scans
- Sponsor not updating Anmeldung
- Last-minute VFS appointments
Avoiding these improves approval speed dramatically.
Conclusion
Reuniting with your partner in Germany becomes easier when you understand the spouse visa requirements, document checklist, and processing timeline. With the right preparation, you can apply confidently and can make sure a smoother journey toward building your life together in Germany.
If you are applying for the Germany spouse visa from India, starting early, preparing all documents thoroughly, and staying informed about embassy updates can significantly improve your chances of approval. Want more details about the Germany Reunification Visa for spouse? Connect with CanApprove’s Germany experts today.
Frequently Asked Questions
