Embassy interview for a family reunification visa: common questions and tips

First: What is the purpose of the family reunification interview at the embassy?

To confirm that a genuine family relationship exists (marriage, fatherhood, motherhood).
To verify key dates (marriage date, birth, last meeting, etc.).
To check consistency with the information submitted by the person in Germany.
To confirm the sponsor’s intention to host their family members.
To identify any suspicion of a sham marriage or document fraud.

Second: Who is interviewed?

The wife/husband applying for the visa.
Minor children, if they are above a certain age.
In some cases, the spouse in Germany may later be asked to attend a session to confirm the relationship.

Third: The most common questions in the interview

About the marital relationship:

When and where did you meet?
When and where did you get married?
Was there a civil marriage contract, or only a religious one?
What were the wedding arrangements like, and who attended?
How long did it take to prepare for the wedding?
When was your last in-person meeting?
Do you have shared photos, calls, or messages?

About the daily life of the person in Germany:

What is their job?
Where do they live, and how many rooms are in the home?
Do they send you money? How much?
Do you have shared plans after reunification (work, studies, children, etc.)?

For children:

What is the name of your father/mother who lives in Germany?
When did they leave for Germany?
Do you stay in contact? How?

Questions vary depending on nationality, the embassy, and the type of relationship (spouses – children – humanitarian reunification).

Fourth: Documents to bring on the interview day

A valid passport.
Recent biometric passport photos.
A copy of the completed and signed visa application form.
A translated and certified marriage certificate (for spouse cases).
Translated birth certificates (if there are children).
Photos and evidence of communication.
Proof of the relationship to the person living in Germany (copy of asylum decision, residence permit, work contract if available).
An official civil marriage certificate if the marriage was religious only.
In some cases: a DNA report or additional legal statements.

Fifth: Golden tips to succeed in the interview

1. Complete honesty
Any contradictions or lies can raise suspicion and lead to rejection.

2. Prepare in advance
Review basic information: dates, names, key events, and details of the marriage or shared life.

3. Stay calm and focused
Avoid stress. Answer calmly and clearly. Don’t guess what the officer wants to hear—be honest and precise.

4. Dress properly and take it seriously
Wear appropriate clothing, be respectful, and be punctual.

5. Keep your answers consistent
Your answers must match what the sponsor provided in Germany (e.g., number of meetings, father-in-law’s name, housing details).

Sixth: What happens after the interview?

The file is sent to the Ausländerbehörde in the city where the sponsor lives in Germany.
The authority issues an approval or rejection decision and informs the embassy.
If approved, the visa may be issued within weeks or several months, depending on the federal state and the embassy.

Seventh: Common reasons for rejection

Doubts about the validity of the marriage (especially if the marriage is recent or concluded remotely).
Inconsistent statements by both parties.
Missing documents or forged paperwork.
Exceeding the legal deadline after the asylum decision (3 months) without justification.

Conclusion
The embassy interview is not a mere formality—it is a credibility test of the family relationship and compliance with the law. Good preparation, honesty, and coordination with the sponsor in Germany significantly increase the chances of getting the visa as quickly as possible.

Do not hesitate to consult a lawyer or a support organisation such as Pro Asyl or Diakonie if you face difficulties, because every day of delay can postpone reunification—and life.

— The website’s authors and editors strive to provide accurate information through extensive research and by consulting multiple sources. However, some errors may occur or certain details may remain unconfirmed. Please treat the information as an initial reference and always consult the competent authorities for confirmed information.