Marrying a German National – Joining Your Partner or Fiancé/e – Germany Visa
If you are planning to marry a German national or a person living in Germany, you may need to apply for a visa in order to join your husband or wife. This article will explain the process of applying for a Germany marriage visa, and discuss the requirements for approval.
What is a German Marriage Visa?
A German marriage visa is a type of visa that allows a foreign spouse of a German citizen or resident to live in Germany. This visa is also commonly referred to as a “family reunification visa,” because it allows family members to reunite in Germany.
Who Can Apply for a German Marriage Visa?
In order to be eligible for a German marriage visa, you must be the spouse of a German citizen or resident. This includes spouses married outside of Germany but intending to move to Germany and spouses married in Germany. You may also be eligible if you are engaged to a German citizen or resident and plan to marry in Germany.
What Documents Will I Need to Submit?
The documents you will need to submit for a German marriage visa vary depending on your specific situation. Generally speaking, you will need to provide proof of your marriage or engagement, proof of your German partner’s immigration status, proof of your financial means, proof of sufficient living space, and a German language certificate.
How Long Does the Process Take?
The length of the process for a German marriage visa can vary, but it typically takes between two and six months. This timeline is affected by many factors, such as the completeness of the application, how quickly the documentation can be obtained, and the speed at which the German government processes the application.
Do I Need to Bring Anything to Germany?
Generally speaking, you will not need to bring anything to Germany when applying for a German marriage visa. However, you should have proof of your marriage or engagement with you, as well as any other documents you may need to apply.
What Will I Need to Do Once My Visa is Approved?
Once your German marriage visa has been approved, you will need to obtain a residence permit in Germany. This permit must be obtained every year for as long as you wish to remain in Germany. You will need to show proof of your German partner’s immigration status, as well as your marriage or engagement certificate.
Do I Need to Speak German?
No, you do not need to speak German in order to apply for a German marriage visa. However, you will need to obtain a German language certificate, and German language skills may be useful in other areas such as finding a job and making local friends.
Do I Need to Take a German Language Test?
In most cases, yes, you will need to take a German language test in order to apply for a German marriage visa. The test you take will depend on your specific situation, but it is usually an online test of basic German language skills.
How Can I Prepare for the German Language Test?
There are a number of resources available to help you prepare for the German language test. You can find books and online courses to help you learn the basics of the language. Additionally, you can practice with a native German speaker or take online practice tests.
What are My Options if My Application is Denied?
If your application is denied, you have the option to appeal the decision. You will need to provide additional evidence and information to the German government in order to prove that you are eligible for a German marriage visa.
FAQs
- Do I need to submit proof of my German partner’s immigration status? – Yes, you will need to provide proof of your German partner’s immigration status in order to apply for a German marriage visa.
- Can I obtain a residence permit in Germany without a German marriage visa? – No, you will need to obtain a German marriage visa in order to obtain a residence permit in Germany.
- How long does it take to obtain a residence permit in Germany? – The process can take from two to six months.
- Do I need to take a German language test? – Most likely, yes, you will need to take a German language test in order to apply for a German marriage visa.
- What are my options if my application is denied? – You have the option to appeal the decision and provide additional evidence and information.
Conclusion
Marrying a German national or relocating to Germany to join your husband or wife requires a German marriage visa. This visa allows a foreign spouse of a German citizen or resident to reside in Germany. Eligibility criteria, requirements for approval, and application processes all vary depending on your specific circumstances. Once approved, you must obtain a residence permit in Germany each year in order to remain in the country.
If you’re planning to marry a German national or move to Germany to join your husband or wife, it’s important to understand the process for obtaining a German marriage visa. Careful preparation and familiarising yourself with the requirements can help give you the best chance of success.
