12.1 General Categories
Includes, among others:
- Spousal reunification with German citizens and third-country nationals holding a residence permit.
- Reunification of minor children, parental reunification with minor German citizens.
- Family reunification with persons entitled to protection (refugees, persons entitled to asylum, persons entitled to subsidiary protection).
- Visa for marriage in Germany.
12.2 Spousal reunification – Documents (excerpt)
According to the information sheet “Family Reunion – Spouses”:
- Passport + 2 copies of the data page; if applicable, residence permit in the country of residence.
- 2 VIDEX applications, 2 biometric photos.
- Copies of the spouse’s passport/residence permit in Germany, registration certificate.
- Marriage certificate (for Kenyan marriages: “Certificate of Marriage” + “Certified Copy of Entry of Marriage”;
legalization and translations, if applicable).
- Divorce decrees/death certificates of former spouses.
- Applicant’s birth certificate.
- Proof of adequate housing and secure means of support (especially when joining third-country nationals; via pay stubs, employment contract, lease agreement).
- Proof of German language proficiency at level A1, unless a legal exception applies (e.g., spouse is a Blue Card holder, highly qualified professional).
- Health insurance; fee €75 (may be free of charge for German nationals); waiting time for an appointment according to the portal is approx. 6 months.
12.3 Child Reunification – Documents (Excerpt)
According to “Family Reunion – Children”:
- Child’s passport, 2 copies of the data page.
- VIDEX application, 2 biometric photos.
- Child’s birth certificate.
- Parents’ marriage certificate, proof of custody/guardianship.
- Declaration of consent from the parent not relocating or court order granting sole custody.
- Passport/residence permit of the parent living in Germany, registration certificate, lease agreement.
- Proof of health insurance, school/daycare placement if applicable; fee €37.50 (or free of charge in certain circumstances).
12.4 Family Reunification for Persons Entitled to Protection
Special procedure with simplified conditions (e.g., less stringent requirements regarding means of support/housing) for relatives of persons entitled to protection, with a separate information sheet titled “Visa for Family Reunion with a Minor Entitled to Protection.”
Waiting times are typically long (several months), as the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) and immigration authorities are involved, among others.