Navigating the Process: Applying for a German Family Reunification Visa

Family reunification is a common and significant event in the lives of many individuals living in Germany. Whether you're reuniting with a spouse, a parent, or a child, the process of applying for a German family reunification visa can be both confusing and overwhelming. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to successfully apply for a family reunion visa, from booking an appointment to receiving your visa stamped by the German embassy.

Step 1: Booking an Appointment and Collecting Necessary Papers

The first step in the application process is to book an appointment at your local German embassy. It's crucial to have all the necessary documents ready and to check the validity of passports. Generally, it's best if your passports are valid for at least 2 years; however, a 5-year validity is even better. For Schengen member countries, passports are best if they are valid for 5 years.

As an example, I applied for my US ex-boyfriend's German family reunification visa. We went to the German embassy and submitted all the required papers. I also provided a certification of my current financial situation from the Bundeszentralamt für Steuern (German tax office), a deed of one of my properties in Berlin, and an authorization to live there. Additionally, I sent a copy of both our passports—one German and one US.

Step 2: Applying as a Spouse

If your application is for spouse reunion, you will need to fill out the form for the family reunion visa and present it at your appointment at the German embassy. You will also need to bring your passport, an additional recent passport photo, a copy of your spouse's ID, a marriage certificate, and proof of your A1 German language exam.

Step 3: Booking Slot and Waiting for Response

Once you have decided on the type of visa you need, you should initially book a slot to apply for a German dependent family reunification visa. If your spouse is working in Germany for more than 6 months, you can directly apply to the German embassy. However, if their stay is less than 6 months, you must book an appointment with VFS Global (Visa Facilitation Services) Germany.

Link to German Embassy Slot Booking: [Insert Link Here]

Link to VFS Global: [Insert Link Here]

It is advisable to refer to these websites for additional information. In my application, it took me 3 weeks to get a slot. I applied on December 13, 2021, and got a slot for January 5. After booking the slot, you should gather all necessary documents and arrange them into 3 sets – two sets for the embassy and one set for your reference.

Step 4: Presenting Documents and Basic Questions

When you attend the appointment, bring all the necessary documents as requested in the provided link. The German embassy staff will ask you some basic questions about you and your spouse. They are usually very friendly and helpful.

Step 5: Waiting for Approval

After submitting all your documents, you will have to wait for the embassy's approval, which generally takes between 8 to 12 weeks. However, due to the pandemic, the processing time may vary. In my case, it took 5 months to get an approval from the German embassy.

Step 6: Visa Stamping and Collecting Your Passport

Once you receive the approval, you will need to go to the nearest VFS Global office for visa stamping. There, you will need to drop off your passport and other documents. VFS Global staff will guide you on what documents are needed. After a few days, your passport will be returned to you through post.

Note: For any queries, contact the customer care services of VFS Global. They are very helpful and can provide the necessary guidance.

By following these steps, you can navigate the process of applying for a German family reunification visa. Remember to gather all necessary documents in advance and stay informed about any delays or changes in the application process. Good luck!