Booking a Family Reunion Appointment via VFS: Choosing the Right Center and Preparing Fast

1. Finding the right VFS center
In your case, there is no VFS office in Yemen. However, you may apply through the German Embassy in Abu Dhabi or Riyadh via VFS centers in the UAE or Saudi Arabia, depending on where you actually are and whether you can travel.
On the VFS website, you will usually find “Book an appointment” under National / Long-Term Visa.

2. Booking an appointment quickly
Create an account on the VFS website, then choose:

• Visa type: Family Reunion (Family Reunion / National Visa)

• Application center: e.g., Abu Dhabi or Riyadh

• Number of applicants: You can add family members; often one slot can be booked for the family

If you cannot add family members:
Try booking separate appointments for each person at the same time or close time slots, then explain at the center that you are one family.

3. Optional services (optional)
You may select “Premium Lounge” for a faster, more comfortable experience, but it costs extra and is not required for a strong application.
An SMS service may also be available to receive status updates and track your case.

4. Preparing documents before the appointment

• A copy of the visa application (National Visa)

• Valid passports for all applicants

• Marriage and birth certificates (translated and legalized)

• Asylum decision or German residence permit (copy and recent extract)

• Biometric photos according to requirements

• Proof of housing and employment or income in Germany (for the sponsor/host)

• Proof of family relationship (messages, call logs, shared photos)

5. On appointment day
Arrive 30 minutes early.
If you booked close time slots, tell VFS staff you are one family.
Submit original documents and all required papers.
Service fees are paid in cash or by card, depending on the center.

6. After the appointment
Your file goes to the German Embassy, and it is often forwarded to the Ausländerbehörde in Germany for review and approval.
Once approved, the visa is sent back to the center, and you may collect it within weeks or a few months, depending on the case.

Important tips from users’ experiences (Reddit)
“You can add both applicants to the same booking slot… if it fails, book separate but close slots and explain at the center.”
“Don’t stress over the Premium Lounge—it can reduce anxiety, but it’s not necessary.”

Summary

• Choose the nearest center (Abu Dhabi or Riyadh).

• Book quickly after selecting the correct visa type.

• Try to book one slot for the family, or use close time slots.

• Prepare documents carefully and attend on time.

• Add supporting family evidence to make the situation clearer at the center.

ـ Disclaimer: The writers and editors aim to provide accurate information through extensive research and multiple sources. However, errors may occur or some details may be unconfirmed. Please treat the information as initial guidance and always consult official authorities for verified details.