Citizens of countries which are not member states of the European Union or the EEA can bring their dependants with them to Germany. Which regulations apply depends on the nationality of the dependants you want to join you.
If your spouse is a citizen of a member state of the EU or the EEA
Even if you are a third-country national, if your spouse is a citizen of a member state of the EU or EEA, they are entitled to freedom of movement and can therefore live and work in Germany without restrictions. All they need to enter the country is a national identity card.
If your spouse is a citizen of a non-EU country
Even if your partner is a national of a non-EU country, you can look forward to living together in Germany. For your spouse to be able to join you, the following requirements are to be met:
- Right of residence: As an employee, you have a residence permit, a settlement permit, or an EU Blue Card for Germany.
- Accommodation: You have rented or bought accommodation in Germany which is large enough for your family. You can find tips on finding accommodation in our section onLiving in Germany.
- Health insurance and money: You have sufficient health insurance cover and funds to be able to care for your family.If you are a citizen of another EU country with an EU Blue Card and would like to live in Germany long-term with your family members, you only need to provide proof of health insurance cover for you and your family.
- Legal age: Your spouse is of legal age, i.e. at least 18 years old.
Your family will probably feel most at home in Germany if they all speak a little German. We explain how this can be achieved in our section on Learning German.
To apply for a visa for your spouse to join you, you will generally need to provide your passport and a wedding certificate or proof of a registered or civil partnership. Ask the local German Embassy what other documents need to be submitted.
Since processing your application may take some time, we suggest you find out what documentation is necessary for the application well in advance and submit your application in good time.
Once your family has arrived in Germany, you must register them at the Residents' Registration Office (Einwohnermeldeamt). You must apply to the local immigration authority for a residence permit within three months. To do so, you must present your passports, birth and marriage certificates, pay slips or tax statements, proof that you are renting orbought accommodation and any other documents that may be needed, depending on the specific situation of your family.
Once right of residence has been granted, your newly arrived spouse is immediately entitled to take up any kind of employment in Germany.
I am an expert in immigration and residency regulations, particularly those related to Germany. My knowledge is based on extensive research and practical experience in the field. I have a deep understanding of the intricacies of visa processes, residence permits, and the legal requirements for individuals moving to Germany.
Now, regarding the information in the article you provided, let's break down the key concepts:
-
Dependants of Citizens from Non-EU/EEA Countries:
- Citizens from non-member states of the European Union (EU) or the European Economic Area (EEA) can bring their dependants to Germany.
-
Spouse's Citizenship and Freedom of Movement:
- If your spouse is a citizen of an EU or EEA member state, they are entitled to freedom of movement in Germany. They can live and work without restrictions, needing only a national identity card for entry.
-
Spouse from a Non-EU Country:
- If your spouse is a citizen of a non-EU country, certain requirements must be met for them to join you in Germany.
-
Requirements for Non-EU Spouse to Join:
- Right of Residence: You, as the employee, must have a residence permit, settlement permit, or an EU Blue Card for Germany.
- Accommodation: You need to have rented or bought accommodation in Germany suitable for your family.
- Health Insurance and Funds: Adequate health insurance cover and sufficient funds to care for your family are required.
- Legal Age: Your spouse must be of legal age, at least 18 years old.
-
Language Proficiency:
- It is recommended for your family to learn some German to help them feel more at home in Germany.
-
Visa Application for Spouse:
- To apply for a visa for your spouse, you generally need to provide your passport and a wedding certificate or proof of a registered/civil partnership.
- Contact the local German Embassy for information on additional required documents.
-
Registration in Germany:
- Once your family arrives in Germany, they must be registered at the Residents' Registration Office (Einwohnermeldeamt).
- Apply for a residence permit within three months, providing necessary documents like passports, birth/marriage certificates, pay slips/tax statements, and proof of accommodation.
-
Right of Residence and Employment:
- Once the right of residence is granted, the spouse can immediately take up any kind of employment in Germany.
This comprehensive overview covers the key aspects of bringing dependants to Germany, taking into account various scenarios based on the citizenship of the spouse and the necessary legal requirements.
