Spousal Family Reunion Visa from Non-EU Countries (§ 30 Residence Act) – Conditions and Requirements

Family reunion is one of the main legal migration routes to Germany. § 30 Residence Act provides the legal basis for the spousal reunion visa when one spouse resides legally in Germany and the other lives in a non-EU country.

Who can apply?

• Anyone officially married to:

  • a German citizen

  • or a foreigner legally residing in Germany (refugee, worker, student, etc.)

Marriage must be official, documented, and recognized in Germany.

Main requirements (§ 30 Residence Act)

1. Proof of marriage

   • Original marriage certificate translated into German

   • Certified by embassy or foreign ministry of issuing country

2. Joint living in Germany

   • Intention to live together at a shared address

   • Proof of residence provided later during residence permit application

3. German language certificate (A1)

   • Spouse from outside EU must prove at least A1 level (Goethe, telc, ÖSD)

   • Exemptions:

     • spouses of German citizens

     • spouses of recognized refugees (§ 25 Abs. 1 or 2)

     • marriage existed before refugee entered Germany

4. Proof of financial support

   • Required only in certain cases (not for Germans or recognized refugees)

   • If spouse in Germany has work/study residence:

     • sufficient income

     • health insurance for incoming spouse

Required documents

• valid passport

• biometric photos

• completed and signed visa application form

• translated and certified marriage certificate

• A1 language certificate (if required)

• invitation/letter from spouse in Germany

• copy of spouse’s residence permit in Germany

• proof of residence in Germany

• temporary health insurance (sometimes required)

Procedure

• Appointment via VFS or German embassy

• Submission of documents

• personal interview

• marriage verification in case of suspicion

• embassy forwards application to immigration office

• approval = visa issuance

• visa collection and travel to Germany

• residence registration and residence permit issuance

Processing time Usually 8 weeks to 6 months, longer in some states.

After arrival in Germany

• Apply for residence permit under § 30 Residence Act at immigration office

• Rights:

  • long-term residence

  • health insurance

  • right to work (sometimes immediately)

  • possibility of child reunion later

Reasons for rejection

• insufficient or incorrect documents

• suspicion of sham marriage

• missing language proof

• legal issues with spouse in Germany (e.g., deportation risk)

Conclusion: Spousal family reunion under § 30 Residence Act is a regulated procedure enabling families to live together in Germany. Accurate documentation and patience are essential.