Germany attracts individuals worldwide with its diverse opportunities, strong employment prospects, and high quality of life. Many professionals and skilled workers seek to achieve their goals in this country and reunite with their families. The Germany Family Reunion Visa facilitates this process, allowing families to come together on German soil. This article explores the key aspects of the Family Reunion Visa for nigerians, including requirements, common questions, and application details.
The Pathway to Reunion
Germany encourages people who have already prospered inside its frontiers, to unite with their relatives. It allows them to resettle in their home country. Nevertheless, these qualifications not only determine eligibility but also help identify where the inherent benefits of the scheme are most required.
Eligibility Criteria
The eligibility criteria for the Germany Family Reunion Visa differ based on nationality and the status of the family member in Germany:
EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens:
Citizens of the EU, EEA, or Switzerland, their families, or dependents shall travel without visas to the union. As a validation process, the accepted passport or ID card suffices to get into the museum. However, bylaws indicate that new residents must report to the residents’ registration office within a period not exceeding three months upon arriving.
Non-EU/EEA Citizens:
The Family Reunion Visa is a free movement of EU/EEA nationals who leave their family members in Germany and are willing to stay and reunite with their families. It is fulfilling for their spouses, partners, relatives, and all other family members. If the Alien’s Authority successfully evaluates the application, they issue a residence permit for the family member.
The Family Member’s Requirements
For a family member to sponsor the Germany Family Reunion Visa, they need to possess:
- A valid residence permit
- Health insurance
- Proof of financial stability
- Adequate accommodation space
To determine financial adequacy, calculate a sum that accommodates rent, loans, and a threshold ensuring access to state benefits.
The Spouse/Civil Partner Visa
Joining a spouse or civil partner in Germany involves specific prerequisites:
- Age and Language Requirement: The joining spouse/partner must be over 18 years old and possess basic German language skills.
- Exemptions: The authorities waive the age and language requirements for spouses or partners who are EU Blue Cardholders, self-employed individuals, or holders of special statuses.
- Residence Permit Issuance: If the resident spouse received their permit after marriage, the non-resident spouse may need to wait two years before applying. Discuss special cases with the German embassy.
Children’s Visa Requirements
Bringing children to Germany entails varying criteria based on age and status:
- Blue Cardholder’s Children: Children of Blue Cardholders or those with settlement or humanitarian permits can join their parents without specific requirements.
- Children of Resident Parents: Both parents residing in Germany can bring their child. For a single parent, custody is required. If only one parent is a resident, they need custody rights.
- Children under 16 can join without specific requirements.
- Children aged 16-18 must be unmarried and fluent in German to obtain the visa.
Family Reunion for Other Relatives
Germany allows other family members, such as parents, siblings, aunts, and uncles, to reunite under specific circumstances:
- Eligibility: Family members can join in cases of hardship, where family support can only be provided within Germany.
- Stringent Criteria: Such reunions are subject to stringent conditions and are typically reserved for compelling situations.
The Application Process
Applying for the Germany Family Reunion Visa follows these steps:
Embassy/Consulate Appointment:
Schedule an appointment with the German embassy/consulate in your home country. If unavailable, explore neighboring countries.
Documentation:
Prepare all necessary documents, including specific documents based on the family member you’re joining in Germany.
Legal Expertise:
Engaging legal experts, like immigration lawyers, is recommended for a seamless process. Their guidance ensures compliance with German immigration authorities’ requirements and expedites the application.
Visa Fees
The cost of the Germany Family Reunion Visa is €75 for adults and €37.50 for children under 18. Depending on circumstances, reduced or waived fees may apply. In case of rejection or withdrawal, reimbursement is not granted.
Employment Opportunities
The Family Reunion Visa doesn’t restrict employment if the resident family member fulfills certain conditions:
- Holds an EU Blue Card
- Possesses a work-authorized residence permit
- Is classified as a highly skilled person or researcher
Navigating the Path to Unity
The Germany Family Reunion Visa transcends borders, reuniting families and fostering harmony amidst career pursuits. By embracing family members within its fold, Germany champions the ethos of balance, where professional ambition thrives alongside personal bonds. As families converge on this promising soil, they weave a tapestry of cultural richness, academic excellence, and shared aspirations.
Can family reunion visa holders work in Germany immediately
Family reunion visa holders in Germany are generally allowed to work immediately upon arrival, provided certain conditions are met. According to German law, any adult who enters Germany on a Family Reunion Visa is entitled to take up employment without needing a separate work permit. However, this is contingent on the family member they are joining having a residence permit that authorizes employment, such as a standard residence permit, an EU Blue Card, or being categorized as a highly skilled worker or researcher.
Key Points:
- Immediate Work Authorization: Family reunion visa holders can work as soon as they arrive in Germany.
- Conditions: The relative they are joining must have a valid residence permit that allows them to work.
- Documentation: Upon arrival, the family member may need to apply for a residence permit if they intend to stay longer than the initial visa period.
In summary, while family reunion visa holders can work immediately, it is crucial for them to ensure that their sponsoring relative meets the necessary conditions for employment authorization in Germany.
Embark on this journey of unity, armed with the insights of the Germany Family Reunion Visa. With a resolute commitment to fulfilling requirements and a clear understanding of the application process, you’re poised to navigate the path to reuniting with loved ones in the heart of Germany.
How Law and Visas Can Help?
At Law and Visas, our team of expert immigration consultants is here to make your travel to Germany for Family Reunion straightforward and successful. Whether you’re applying for a Child Visa or a Long term Resident Visa, we handle every step—from preparing your application to gathering the required documents.
Our Immigration Consultants and Lawyers ensure that your application meets the highest standards, with no details missed. We’ll also keep you informed throughout the process and coordinate with the immigration office or embassy on your behalf.
Law and Visas have a strong record of helping clients secure the visas/permits they need to visit Germany. Call us today at +234 812 5505 986 to learn how we can assist you.
