Family reunification is the legal route that allows a spouse/registered partner to enter Germany and then obtain a residence permit to live with their partner in Germany.
Visa vs residence permit (what happens after arrival)
In many cases, the process has two stages:
- National visa (D visa) application from outside Germany (through an official German mission).
- After arrival, you complete local steps in Berlin (often including address registration) and then deal with the Berlin immigration authority (commonly called the Ausländerbehörde/LEA).
Exact steps depend on your nationality, your spouse’s status (German citizen, EU citizen, or third-country national in Germany), and local practice—so always follow the official instructions given with your appointment.
Berlin-specific: LEA/Ausländerbehörde role
In Berlin, the immigration authority is often referred to as LEA. In many reunification cases, LEA becomes relevant for the residence permit stage and sometimes for checks or confirmations during the visa stage. Don’t assume you can “skip Berlin steps” after entering: plan for local appointments and paperwork.
Do you qualify? Key eligibility checkpoints
Think of eligibility as a set of gates. If any gate is missing, the application may be delayed or refused.
Relationship and legal status (marriage/registered partnership)
Typically, you’ll need proof that the marriage or registered partnership is legally valid. If your document was issued outside Germany, you may need:
- a certified translation into German (often by a sworn translator), and/or
- legalisation or apostille (depends on where the document was issued—confirm on official sources).
Practical tip: Keep your relationship story consistent across forms, statements, and documents (dates, addresses, and names spelled the same way).
A1 German requirement (when it usually applies, common exceptions)
A frequent “make-or-break” item is the A1 German requirement (basic language skills). Many spouse reunification cases expect:
- an accepted A1 certificate from a recognized provider, and
- the certificate to be valid according to the issuing body’s rules and the mission’s acceptance list.
However, exceptions can exist (for example, where the sponsor is an EU citizen using free movement rules, or in specific hardship situations, or where the applicant is demonstrably unable to learn due to serious circumstances). These exceptions are very fact-specific—do not assume you qualify. If you think an exception applies, use official guidance and consider professional advice.
Income, housing, and “secure livelihood” (how it’s assessed)
Germany commonly assesses whether the couple can support themselves without relying on certain public benefits (often discussed as “secure livelihood”). The exact evidence and thresholds can vary by sponsor status and local expectations.
For planning purposes, expect scrutiny of:
- sponsor’s employment status (contract type, payslips),
- income stability (not just one good month),
- housing suitability (enough space, lawful tenancy),
- overall circumstances (children, obligations, prior immigration history).
If you’re tempted to “solve” this with vague bank statements or last-minute deposits: don’t. That’s a common reason for additional questions. Provide clear, consistent, explainable evidence.
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Health insurance expectations
Health insurance is another common decision point. The authorities often want to see that once you’re living in Germany, you will have appropriate health coverage (public or private, depending on the situation). Which insurance is appropriate can depend on:
- whether the sponsor is in public insurance,
- whether you qualify to be covered as a family member,
- whether private insurance is required initially.
Because insurance rules are technical and personal, use official sources (and if needed, insurer guidance) rather than guessing.
Sponsor vs applicant responsibilities (who provides what)
A lot of delays happen because couples don’t divide tasks clearly. Use this simple rule:
- Applicant (outside Germany): identity documents, language certificate (if required), personal forms, prior travel/immigration history, civil documents, and appointment requirements.
- Sponsor (in Berlin/Germany): proof of residence status, address/housing proof, income/employment proof, and sometimes a written invitation/support statement (only if requested).
If you’re unsure which side should provide an item, check the official mission’s checklist for your visa category and the sponsor’s status.
Documents checklist (what to prepare early)
Below is a practical checklist. The exact list for your case will come from the official mission checklist—so treat this as “common items,” not a substitute.
Core identity + relationship proof
Commonly requested items include:
- Valid passport (plus copies)
- Application forms/photos as specified
- Marriage certificate or registered partnership certificate
- Proof of previous marital status changes (divorce decree, death certificate) if applicable
- Evidence your relationship is genuine (choose quality over volume):
- communication history summary (not thousands of pages),
- photos from different time periods,
- travel stamps/boarding passes,
- joint plans (lease planning, wedding documentation, etc.)
Keep it organized: a labeled folder with a simple index can reduce confusion.
Housing proof and registration concepts
Housing is often shown through:
- rental contract/tenancy agreement (or proof of ownership),
- a document showing living space or occupancy rules if required,
- address details in Berlin.
Berlin also has local registration steps after arrival; don’t confuse “having a lease” with being “registered.” They’re related but not identical.
Financial proof and employment proof
Common sponsor documents:
- recent payslips (multiple months),
- employment contract and/or confirmation letter,
- tax assessment or annual statements (if self-employed, more extensive documentation),
- bank statements (supporting, not replacing income proof),
- proof of residence status in Germany (passport/permit).
Avoid contradictions (job title differs across documents, income shown doesn’t match payslips, etc.). Consistency matters.
German language certificate proof
If A1 is required:
- provide the A1 certificate from an accepted provider,
- ensure your name/passport number match exactly,
- keep extra copies.
If you previously took German classes but don’t have a recognized exam result, that may not help.
Translations, apostille/legalisation (confirm per country)
Authorities often require:
- certified translations into German, and/or
- apostille/legalisation depending on the issuing country.
These rules can change and depend on document type. Confirm the exact requirements on official sources for your issuing country and your mission.
Table A: Eligibility, documents, and timing overview (planning tool)
| Area | What they generally check | Typical evidence | When to prepare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Relationship validity | Legal marriage/partnership | Certificates + prior status docs | Early (can take time) |
| A1 German (if required) | Basic language ability | Recognized A1 certificate | Early (exam slots vary) |
| Housing | Suitable living arrangement | Lease/ownership docs, space info | Before application if possible |
| Livelihood/finances | Ability to support family | Contract, payslips, tax docs | Sponsor should gather first |
| Health insurance | Coverage after move | Proof of coverage plan | Plan during application |
| Identity & forms | Correct data and photos | Passport, forms, photos | Before appointment |
| Processing timeline | Appointment + review time | Complete file reduces delays | Build buffer time |
Timeline expectations (ranges) + planning backwards
As of January 2026, timelines can vary widely due to appointment availability and case complexity. Plan around these components:
- Time to gather documents (often the slowest part if legalisation/translation is needed).
- Appointment availability at the official mission.
- Processing time after submission (can be weeks to months).
- Travel planning and Berlin follow-up steps after arrival.
Rather than fixating on one “average,” plan with a range and keep your schedule flexible. If you have a deadline (job start date, pregnancy, school), build a bigger buffer and consider professional guidance.
Common pitfalls and refusal reasons (non-alarmist)
Most refusals and long delays come from a few patterns:
- Missing A1 certificate when it’s required.
- Inconsistent relationship timeline (dates and facts don’t match forms or documents).
- Weak housing proof (unclear tenancy situation or overcrowding concerns).
- Unclear livelihood evidence (irregular income, missing payslips, or documents that don’t match).
- Translation/legalisation issues (wrong format, non-certified translations).
- Rushed, disorganized file that forces the reviewer to ask for clarifications.
How to reduce risk:
- Use the official checklist as your “source of truth.”
- Make one simple document index.
- Keep names/spellings consistent (passport spelling wins).
- Don’t provide fake or altered documents—this can trigger serious consequences.
Step-by-step: Berlin spouse/family reunification process (as of Jan 2026)
Use this as a practical roadmap. Your official mission may label steps differently, so always follow their instructions.
Step 1: Identify the correct route for your sponsor’s status
First, determine whether your spouse/partner in Berlin is:
- a German citizen,
- an EU/EEA citizen living in Germany, or
- a non-EU citizen with a German residence permit.
This status affects which rules apply (especially around A1 language expectations, livelihood checks, and documentation).
Step 2: Download the official checklist and book the right appointment type
Use the official German mission guidance to:
- select the correct visa category (family reunification/spouse/partner),
- confirm photo specs, forms, and accepted documents,
- book the appointment and note required copies.
If something is unclear, rely on official written guidance rather than social media summaries.
Step 3: Prepare your “decision file” (organized, consistent, complete)
Build your application package so a reviewer can understand it quickly:
- Section 1: Identity (passport, photos, forms)
- Section 2: Relationship (certificate + supporting evidence)
- Section 3: A1 German (if required)
- Section 4: Sponsor’s status (permit/citizenship proof)
- Section 5: Housing (lease, address details)
- Section 6: Livelihood/finances (employment proof, payslips, etc.)
- Section 7: Insurance plan (how you will be covered after arrival)
Add a one-page index so missing items are obvious.
Step 4: Submit application and biometrics (if required)
At your appointment, you typically submit your documents and may provide biometrics, depending on local procedure. Keep copies of everything and receipts.
Step 5: Case review and possible additional document requests
If the reviewer needs clarification, you may receive a request for additional documents. Respond clearly and quickly, and only provide what’s asked (plus minimal context if needed).
Step 6: Decision, travel, and Berlin arrival steps
If approved, you will follow the instructions on:
- entry validity and any conditions,
- what you must do soon after arrival (for example, local address steps),
- how to transition to the appropriate residence permit in Berlin via LEA/Ausländerbehörde.
Step 7: Berlin residence permit stage (plan early)
After arrival, you may need appointments for:
- address-related formalities, and
- residence permit issuance or conversion (depending on your entry visa label).
Berlin appointment availability can fluctuate, so plan early and keep your documents handy in digital and paper form.
Cost breakdown by category (ranges; confirm official figures)
Costs vary by mission, your document situation, and how much you can do yourself. Instead of inventing exact fees, plan by category:
- Visa/residence fees
- Government fees can change; confirm current figures on the official government immigration and mission websites.
- Language exam and preparation (A1)
- Exam cost + optional course materials or classes.
- Translations and certifications
- Certified translations can be a meaningful cost driver, especially if you have multiple civil documents.
- Legalisation/apostille (if required)
- Depends on issuing country and document type.
- Travel-related costs
- Transportation to appointment city, courier services if used, travel to Germany after approval.
- Insurance bridging costs (if needed)
- Depending on your situation, there may be initial coverage costs until you are fully in the appropriate system.
- Copying, photos, and admin
- Small but easy to underestimate when you redo documents.
Table B: Cost + responsibility map (planning tool)
| Category | Usually paid by | What to budget for | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Government application fees | Applicant (often) | Fee amount (confirm official) | Can change; don’t guess |
| A1 exam & prep | Applicant | Exam + course materials | Only if A1 required |
| Translations | Applicant (sometimes shared) | Certified translation fees | Quality matters |
| Apostille/legalisation | Applicant | Per-document charges | Confirm requirement first |
| Housing docs | Sponsor | Lease/space proof | Must be clear and legal |
| Livelihood docs | Sponsor | Payslips, contract copies | Consistency is key |
| Insurance plan | Varies | Proof of coverage plan | Depends on eligibility |
| Travel | Applicant | Appointment + relocation travel | Build buffer |
If refused: what to do next (calm, practical)
A refusal is stressful, but it’s not automatically the end. Your next step depends on the refusal reason.
1) Read the refusal notice carefully
Identify whether the problem is:
- a missing requirement (like A1 where required),
- insufficient evidence (housing or livelihood unclear), or
- a documentation/format issue (translation/legalisation).
2) Choose the cleanest correction path
Often, you have two practical options:
- Reapply with a stronger, complete file (common if the fix is straightforward), or
- Challenge/appeal if you believe the decision misunderstood the facts or applied the wrong rule.
Appeal rules and timelines can be strict and vary by context, so confirm on official sources and consider qualified advice for refusals—especially if there are complex factors (previous refusals, prior overstays, missing civil records, etc.).
3) Fix the root cause, not just the symptom
Examples:
- If A1 was missing: take the recognized exam and include the certificate.
- If livelihood evidence was unclear: provide multiple months of consistent proof and an explanation letter if needed.
- If housing proof was weak: clarify tenancy terms and space details with proper documentation.
- If civil documents were not accepted: redo translations/legalisation correctly.
Jobs angle: what spouse reunification means for work in Berlin (general guidance)
Many people ask: “Can I work once I arrive in Berlin?”
In many spouse/family reunification situations, the resulting residence permit may allow employment, but the exact permission depends on:
- the sponsor’s status,
- the permit type issued, and
- any conditions printed on your residence document.
Practical steps:
- After approval/arrival, check your residence permit conditions (work permitted vs restricted).
- If you plan to work quickly, prepare a Berlin-ready job pack:
- CV in German/English (role dependent),
- scanned diplomas and references,
- basic proof you can lawfully work (permit condition),
- a plan for health insurance and tax ID steps.
Important: Don’t rely on hearsay (“all spouse permits allow work”). Confirm based on the wording of your permit and official guidance.
Compliance note for sponsors/employers
If you start working, your employer may need to verify work authorization based on your residence documents. Keeping your documents organized helps prevent onboarding delays.
FAQ
- Do I always need A1 German for a spouse visa?
Not always. Many cases require it, but exceptions can exist depending on sponsor status and specific circumstances. Confirm using official guidance for your route. - How long does the spouse visa take as of January 2026?
It varies widely—appointment availability plus processing can range from weeks to months. Use official guidance and plan with a buffer. - What counts as “proof of relationship”?
A valid marriage/partnership certificate is central. Supporting evidence should be organized and consistent (photos, travel records, communication summary). - Do we need a minimum apartment size?
Housing suitability may be assessed. Requirements can depend on local practice and household size. Confirm expectations on official sources. - Does my spouse in Berlin need a specific income?
Livelihood checks often look for stable income and self-sufficiency. Exact thresholds and proof vary—confirm on official sources. - Do I need health insurance before the visa is approved?
You often need to show a credible plan for coverage. Exact expectations vary by case—confirm with official guidance. - Can I apply from inside Germany?
Often spouse reunification starts from outside Germany, but exceptions can exist depending on nationality and circumstances. Confirm official rules before assuming. - Will prior visa refusals hurt my application?
They can increase scrutiny. Be transparent and provide clear explanations and stronger evidence. - What if our documents are not in German?
You may need certified translations and possibly apostille/legalisation. Confirm the exact requirements for each document. - After arrival, what’s the biggest Berlin-specific challenge?
Local appointments and administrative steps (including interactions with LEA/Ausländerbehörde). Plan early and keep documents ready.
Glossary (10 key terms)
- Family reunification: Immigration route to join close family in Germany.
- National visa (D visa): Long-stay entry visa for moving to Germany.
- Residence permit: Legal permission to live (and sometimes work) in Germany after arrival.
- A1 German: Basic language level often required for spouse reunification.
- LEA/Ausländerbehörde: Berlin’s immigration authority handling residence matters.
- Secure livelihood: Concept referring to self-sufficiency without certain public benefits.
- Apostille/legalisation: Authentication steps for foreign documents (varies by country).
- Certified translation: Official translation accepted by authorities (rules vary).
- Supporting evidence: Extra documents showing relationship and life plans are genuine.
- Conditions/endorsement: Work permission or restrictions noted on your permit/visa.
Final conclusion + official sources to check (no URLs)
A Berlin spouse/family reunification case is strongest when it’s complete, consistent, and calm: valid relationship documentation, A1 German where required, credible housing and livelihood evidence, and a clear insurance plan—presented in a tidy, indexed file.
Before you submit, verify your exact requirements on:
- the official German federal government immigration information portal
- the official German embassy/consulate (mission) website for your country of application
- the official Berlin immigration authority (LEA/Ausländerbehörde) guidance for residence permit steps after arrival
If anything about your case is unusual (prior refusals, complex civil status, urgent deadlines), consider qualified professional support so you don’t lose time on preventable mistakes.