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If you're pursuing your higher studies in Germany as an international student, you may be wondering whether your family can join you. The answer is - yes, it’s possible.
However, there are specific conditions you need to meet, and your family members will need to apply for the correct visa or residence permit.
What Is the German Family Reunion Visa?
The German Family Reunion Visa is intended for close family members, such as spouses and children, of non-EU/EEA nationals who are already residing in Germany. This visa helps keep families together during long-term stays, including study periods.
Who Needs This Visa?
Anyone outside the EU, EEA, or Switzerland who wants to join you in Germany must apply for this visa unless they're from a country that allows visa-free entry. Even in that case, they must still apply for a residence permit upon arrival in Germany.
Who Can Join You?
Family members eligible to join you include your spouse or registered partner and unmarried children under 18. In rare and exceptional cases, other close relatives, such as parents, siblings, or dependent adults, may be permitted to join you, but only if there is a relevant hardship that can be resolved by relocating to Germany.
Citizens from non-EU/EEA countries must apply for a visa before entering Germany. Nationals from countries like the U.S., Australia, or Japan may enter visa-free but must still apply for a residence permit upon arrival.
Requirements You Must Meet
As a student living in Germany, you’ll need:
Application Process
The family member wishing to move must schedule an appointment at their local German embassy or consulate. They’ll need to submit various documents like valid passports, proof of relationship, financial records, insurance, and (for spouses) proof of German language skills.
Translations of all documents into German or English are typically required. Once in Germany, family members must register with the Foreigner’s Office and apply for a residence permit within 90 days.
How Long Does The Process Take?
Processing times vary, but expect 2–3 months or longer, especially in countries with high application volumes. In larger German cities, wait times for appointments at the Foreigners' Office can also be long, so plan accordingly.
Can Family Members Work?
Of course! Once you are in Germany and approved for residence, your spouse or family member can work freely, with no restrictions on job type or working hours.
Final Thoughts,
While bringing your family to Germany as a student is certainly possible, it’s not easy. Students are limited in how much they can work and earn, and balancing studies with family life can be demanding. For some, it may be more practical to bring the family together after graduation once financial stability and full-time work become viable.There are alternatives, such as short-term Schengen visas for visits or independent visa options. Nevertheless, the Family Reunion Visa is preferred by most international students because it allows them to reunite with their families. After all, Ohana means family, and family means no one is left behind."
Suppose you are an international student planning to study in Germany and need assistance with right from the application submission, creating a block account, the visa process, and what to pack - Enroll in our comprehensive course, 'In Germany,' designed specifically to empower you in your journey to study in Germany without emptying your savings.
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