A residence permit may be granted if you and your spouse or domestic partner are at least 18 years old, although exceptions to the minimum age requirement may be made in certain cases.
You are generally required to demonstrate basic language proficiency. Basic language proficiency means you should be able to communicate in German in simple ways in everyday situations, such as asking for directions, shopping, and introducing yourself. There are several exceptions to the requirement to demonstrate language proficiency. For example, if the foreign national holds an EU Blue Card, an ICT Card, or a Mobile ICT Card, you do not need to provide proof of language proficiency. You can obtain information on other exceptions to the language proficiency requirement from your local authority.
The residence permit for family reunification is a temporary residence permit. It is issued for the duration of the family member’s residence permit in Germany—for at least one year. If the residence permit of the foreign national living in Germany is valid for less than one year, the residence permit for family reunification will also be issued for that shorter period.
The residence permit issued for family reunification entitles you to engage in gainful employment.
Under certain circumstances, the Foreigners’ Registration Office may require you to participate in an integration course. This will then be noted on your residence permit.
You must apply for a residence permit at the immigration office responsible for your place of residence. The process is as follows:
- Depending on the Foreigners’ Registration Office and the nature of your request, it may be possible to apply online. Check whether your Foreigners’ Registration Office offers the option to apply for a residence permit electronically.
- If you can only apply in person, schedule an appointment with the Foreigners’ Registration Office. During the appointment, your application will be accepted and your supporting documents will be reviewed (be sure to bring them with you to the appointment). Your fingerprints will be taken to issue an electronic residence permit (eAT).
- If you submit your application online, the Foreigners’ Registration Office will contact you after receiving your online application to schedule an appointment at the office, if necessary. During the appointment, your supporting documents will be reviewed (please bring them with you to the appointment) and your fingerprints will be taken to issue the electronic residence permit (eAT).
- If your application is approved, the Foreigners’ Registration Office will arrange for the issuance of the eAT.
- After about six to eight weeks, you can pick up the eAT at the Foreigners’ Registration Office.
- The eAT must generally be picked up in person.
Fees apply for the issuance of the residence permit. The timing and method of payment vary depending on the agency.
Section 29 in conjunction with Section 30 of the Residence Act
