This is where the Germany dependent visa plays a key role. It allows family members like spouses and children to join the person who is already living in Germany on a valid residence permit. Moving to Germany is a dream for many people who want a better life, strong career growth, and a safe environment for their families. When one member of the family gets a job or studies in Germany, the next important step is to bring the family together.
Whether you are planning to join your husband, wife, or parents in Germany, this visa is the main path for family reunification. It ensures that families do not have to live apart while one person builds a career in Germany. In this blog, we will cover everything you need to know about the Germany dependent visa from eligibility to required documents and how long the process takes. Everything is explained in simple words to help you understand the visa process easily.
What is a Germany Dependent Visa?
A Germany dependent visa is a type of visa that allows the spouse, children, or sometimes parents of a person living in Germany to join them. This person in Germany must have a valid residence permit, such as for work, study, or permanent residency.
The visa is also known as a family reunification visa. It gives family members the chance to live together and also enjoy basic rights such as healthcare, education, and sometimes even the ability to work.
Who Can Apply for the Germany Dependent Visa?
To apply for the Germany dependent visa, you must have a close relationship with the main visa holder living in Germany. Here are the main categories of people who can apply:
- Spouse: Husband or wife of the person living in Germany.
- Children: Children under the age of 18, including adopted children.
- Parents: In some special cases, parents of a minor child living in Germany may also apply.
The main visa holder in Germany must have a valid visa or residence permit for work, study, or research. If they are permanent residents or EU Blue Card holders, the chances of visa approval increase.
Eligibility Criteria for Germany Dependent Visa
There are certain eligibility rules you must meet to get a Germany dependent visa:
- Legal Relationship: You must prove your relationship with the person living in Germany, such as a marriage certificate for spouses or a birth certificate for children.
- Accommodation: The person in Germany must have enough space in their home for the dependent family members.
- Health Insurance: All applicants must have valid health insurance before moving to Germany.
- Financial Support: The main visa holder must be earning enough money to support the family without needing help from the German government.
- Basic Language Skills: In most cases, spouses need to show basic German language knowledge (A1 level). However, this rule may not apply if the spouse is highly qualified or the person in Germany holds an EU Blue Card.
Documents Required for Germany Dependent Visa
The following documents are usually required while applying for the Germany dependent visa. Keep in mind that the required documents may change slightly depending on your country:
- Completed Visa Application Form
- Valid Passport
- Passport-size Photos (according to biometric standards)
- Marriage Certificate (for spouses)
- Birth Certificate (for children)
- Proof of German Language Skills (A1) – if required
- Proof of Residence Permit of the person in Germany
- Proof of Accommodation (rental contract or property papers)
- Health Insurance
- Proof of Financial Stability (job contract, salary slips, or bank statements)
Make sure all documents are translated into German or English and attested, if needed.
Germany Dependent Visa Processing Time
One of the most asked questions is: how long does it take to get a Germany dependent visa? The processing time depends on several factors, including the workload of the German embassy or consulate in your home country, completeness of your documents, and how quickly verification is done.
On average, the Germany dependent visa takes between 6 to 12 weeks. In some cases, it might take longer if extra checks are needed. It is always better to apply at least 3 months in advance to avoid delays in your travel plans.
Can You Work on a Germany Dependent Visa?
This depends on the status of the person you are joining in Germany. If the main visa holder has a work visa or an EU Blue Card, then in most cases, the spouse is also allowed to work. Children can attend school or university in Germany without needing a separate study visa.
It’s important to check the remarks or additional information in your visa when it is issued. If your Germany dependent visa allows work, it will clearly state so.
Tips to Get Your Germany Dependent Visa Approved Faster
Here are a few simple tips to increase your chances of getting the Germany dependent visa without delays:
- Double-check that all documents are complete and correct.
- Translate all foreign-language documents into German or English.
- Prepare for the visa interview by knowing basic details about your spouse or parent living in Germany.
- Make sure the main visa holder has a stable job and enough income.
- Apply early, especially during peak visa seasons.
The Germany dependent visa is a valuable option for keeping families together while one member builds their life in Germany. It allows spouses and children to live, study, and sometimes work in Germany, making family life smoother and more joyful. If you meet the eligibility criteria and provide all required documents on time, the process becomes much easier.
Always plan ahead and apply early to avoid unnecessary delays. With the right preparation, getting a Germany dependent visa is not a difficult process. It opens the door for a better life together in one of the most developed countries in the world.
