Family Reunification in Germany: Key Steps & Foreigners’ Office Requirements

Are you planning to apply for family reunification in Germany? The Foreigners’ Office plays a crucial role in the decision-making process. Understanding their evaluation criteria can help ensure a smooth process for you and your loved ones. In this guide, we at Jaberi Lawyers explain the entire procedure, what documents you need, and how decisions on family reunification visas are made.

Key Points at a Glance

• Who processes the application? The Foreigners’ Office in Germany and the German embassy in the applicant’s home country jointly assess family reunification applications.
• Where is the interview conducted? The German embassy in the home country is responsible for the visa interview.
• How long does the visa last? Initially, the family reunification visa is issued for three months and can be extended if necessary.
• Who makes the final decision? The German embassy in the home country has the final say on whether to approve the visa.
• What are the main requirements? A legitimate family relationship, a valid residence permit, financial self-sufficiency, sufficient living space, and (if applicable) language proficiency.

Which Foreigners’ Office is Responsible?

The Foreigners’ Office (Ausländerbehörde) responsible for family reunification is the one located in the sponsor’s place of residence in Germany. Together with the German embassy in the applicant’s home country, they review the visa application for family reunification. If the visa is approved, the family member can enter Germany and then apply for a residence permit at the local Foreigners’ Office.

How to Apply for Family Reunification

The application process does not start with the Foreigners’ Office in Germany but with the German embassy in the applicant’s country of origin. Your family member must submit a complete visa application at the embassy. Once approved, they can enter Germany and apply for a residence permit.

Steps for Family Reunification

1. Submit a visa application at the German embassy in the applicant’s home country.
2. Attend an interview at the embassy.
3. The embassy reviews the application and consults with the Foreigners’ Office in Germany.
4. If approved, the embassy issues a national visa (D visa) for family reunification.
5. The family member enters Germany with the visa.
6. Apply for a residence permit at the local Foreigners’ Office.
7. The Foreigners’ Office processes the application and issues the residence permit.

The Role of the Foreigners’ Office in Family Reunification

The Foreigners’ Office plays an essential role in assessing whether a family reunification visa should be granted. Their responsibilities include:

• Verifying Eligibility: Ensuring that the applicant meets the legal requirements for family reunification.
• Cooperation with the Embassy: Coordinating with the German embassy to process the application.
• Processing the Residence Permit: Once the family member arrives in Germany, they apply for a residence permit at the Foreigners’ Office.
• Final Decision: If all conditions are met, the residence permit is issued.

Questions Asked During the Application Process

To determine whether a family reunification visa should be approved, the German embassy and the Foreigners’ Office will ask questions about:

• Residence Permit: Does the sponsor in Germany hold a residence permit that allows family reunification? What type of residence permit will be applied for upon entry?
• Housing Situation: Is there enough living space for the family member? (Generally, 10 square meters per child under 6 years old and 12 square meters per person for those older than 6.)
• Financial Stability: Can the sponsor support the incoming family member without relying on government aid?
• Health Insurance: Has health insurance been arranged for the joining family member?
• Language Skills: If required, does the family member have a language certificate (A1 level for spouses)?

Documents Required for Family Reunification

To apply for family reunification, the following documents are generally required:

• Completed visa application form
• Valid residence permit of the sponsor in Germany
• Confirmation of the type of residence permit the family member will apply for upon arrival
• Proof of financial means (if required)
• Language certificate (if required)
• Birth certificates of the applicant and the family member
• German passport or proof of citizenship (if applicable)
• Marriage certificate (if applying for spouse reunification)
• Proof of residence and rental agreement (if required)

How Jaberi Lawyers Can Help

Navigating the family reunification process can be complex, but you don’t have to go through it alone. At Jaberi Lawyers, we specialize in immigration law and can assist you with:

• Application Preparation: Ensuring all documents are complete and correctly filed.
• Legal Consultation: Advising on eligibility and required supporting documents.
• Communication with Authorities: Liaising with the Foreigners’ Office and the German embassy on your behalf.
• Appeals and Legal Representation: In case of visa rejection, we help you challenge the decision effectively.

Let us guide you through the family reunification process with expertise and care. Contact Jaberi Lawyers today for professional assistance!

+49 (0)40 413 499 87
contact@jaberilawyers.com
www.jaberilawyers.com

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