Understanding the Process and Duration of German Family Reunion Visa
When looking to bring your family to Germany, navigating the complex process of securing a family reunion visa can seem daunting. It's important to understand the various stages and potential timelines involved in making your application successful. In this guide, we will explore the process of applying for a family reunion visa in Germany and how long it typically takes.
Where to Apply for a Family Reunion Visa
You should apply for a family reunion visa at the German embassy or consulate in your home country, rather than directly in Germany. This means you will need to visit your country’s diplomatic mission, typically located in the capital city. There is no immigration office in Germany for foreign nationals to apply.
Local Immigration Authority and Processing Steps
While the German embassy or consulate will handle your initial application, it will involve the local immigration authority in Germany to ensure all the requirements are met. However, the local immigration authority will not issue the visa itself. You can expect this process to take around 1-2 months, though this step and the overall processing time can vary significantly depending on your country of residence.
Differences in Processing Times
The processing time for a family reunion visa can vary widely. This is largely dependent on your country of citizenship, the completeness of your documents, and any additional requirements that may be necessary. Some people have reported receiving a visa in as little as a week, while others may wait up to 9 months. Here are a few real experiences to consider:
A Week to Visa Approval
One applicant from India shares her story: ‘I got my FRV visa in exactly a week. This was unimaginable during such dreadful times of the pandemic. Super baffled but here it is. I think the reason is thorough paperwork. I gathered all the lists of additional documents that are generally asked by the embassy and carried all of it with me during the appointment itself. Few of them were handed back to me. I gave the interview with utmost confidence and a smile. The interview got over in a matter of 10 minutes give and take. Very smooth process indeed and quite nicely dealt with.’
Details and Documentation
Regardless of the time it takes, it is crucial to ensure your application is complete and up-to-date. The German embassy will seek approval from the local immigration authority in Germany, which can add an additional time frame depending on how many cases the responsible authority is handling. Sometimes, additional documents such as a spouse interview or DNA test are required, especially if there is a significant age difference between spouses.
Venue-Specific Processing Times
For individuals seeking a visa through the Indian embassy, the process typically takes about three months, although this can vary greatly. An employee of the German Embassy explains: ‘Every single visa application is unique, with some being approved in as little as six days, while others can take several years. Generally, it can take around three months in most cases. There are several reasons for delays, including incomplete documents, the necessity for additional checks, and the workload of the responsible alien’s authority. Additionally, there are hundreds of other visa applications being processed in the embassy at any given time. To ensure a smoother process, it is important to check the embassy's official website before applying.’
Conclusion
The duration of the German family reunion visa application process can vary significantly, but being well-prepared with all required documentation and thorough research can help ensure a more efficient and expedited application. Remember, each case is unique, and it's best to familiarize yourself with the specific requirements and processing times of your local German embassy or consulate.