Plan backwards: embassy queues for reunification appointments run to months in several countries. Join the queue while collecting documents, not after.
Who Can Join Whom
The core right: spouses and minor children. The sponsor must show sufficient housing, income and insurance; the spouse usually needs A1 German.
✓ Verified: 15/08/2026
WHAT TO DO
AUTHORITY
Ausländerbehörde (ABH)
Municipal authorityThe Ausländerbehörde for your registered address is the one responsible. Enter your postcode and we will show yours.
Where to go in your city →
› Details and tips
👨🏻💻
Max recommends:
I built a simple table: my net income versus the family needs at Buergergeld rates plus rent. The printout in the package settled the income question without a single follow-up.
👩🏼💼
Lea recommends:
Get the A1 certificate from Goethe-Institut or telc — embassies are picky about exotic schools. Exam slots in popular countries book out months ahead: reserve before the visa appointment.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Does the future income of the joining spouse count? ▾
No, the inviter proves the finances: their contract and payslips must carry the family without welfare. The spouse future earnings are an argument, not proof.
How many square metres of housing are required? ▾
The authorities benchmark: about 12 m² per adult and 10 m² per child, details vary by state. The lease with total area is a mandatory part of the package.
I hold a Blue Card — does my wife need German? ▾
No: the A1 requirement is waived for spouses of Blue Card holders. The spouse also gets work rights from day one.
Can I bring my parents? ▾
Practically only in cases of exceptional hardship — a narrow path best walked with a lawyer. Standard reunification covers spouses and minor children.