parents visit visa germany

Visa for Parents Germany: How to Apply and Requirements

Understanding the germany family reunion visa, table of contents.

If you are a foreign national living in Germany and you want to bring your parents to live with you, you will need to apply for a Germany Family Reunion Visa. This visa allows your parents to join you in Germany and stay with you for a longer period of time.

To apply for a German Family Reunion Visa, you will need to meet certain requirements. These requirements include proof of your legal residence in Germany, proof of your financial stability, and proof of your relationship with your parents. You will also need to show that your parents will be able to support themselves while they are in Germany.

The Germany Family Reunion Visa is typically valid for up to three months. During this time, your parents will need to apply for a residence permit if they wish to stay in Germany for a longer period of time.

It is important to note that the German Family Reunion Visa is only available to certain family members . In addition to parents, spouses and children may also be eligible for this type of visa.

To apply for a Germany Family Reunion Visa, you will need to submit an application to the German embassy or consulate in your home country. The application process can take several months, so it is important to plan ahead.

Overall, the Germany Family Reunion Visa is an important tool for foreign nationals living in Germany who wish to bring their parents to live with them. By meeting the necessary requirements and submitting a complete application, you can increase your chances of success and enjoy a happy and fulfilling life with your loved ones in Germany.

Eligibility Criteria

If you are a foreign national who wishes to bring your parents to live with you in Germany, there are certain eligibility criteria that you must meet. These criteria may vary depending on your nationality and your status in Germany .

EU Citizens and German Nationals

If you are an EU citizen or a German national, you can bring your parents to live with you in Germany without any restrictions. You do not need to apply for a visa or meet any specific eligibility criteria.

Third-Country Nationals

If you are a third-country national, you must meet certain eligibility criteria to bring your parents to Germany. These criteria include:

• Having a valid residence permit in Germany
• Having sufficient financial resources to support your parents during their stay in Germany
• Having suitable accommodation for your parents
• Having health insurance for your parents

Family Members

If you are a family member of a German national or an EU citizen, you may be eligible to bring your parents to Germany. Family members include spouses, children (both minor and adult), and parents.

If you are a family member of a third-country national, you may also be eligible to bring your parents to Germany. However, the eligibility criteria may be more stringent, and you may need to provide additional documentation to prove your relationship.

Other Relatives

If you are not a family member of a German national, an EU citizen, or a third-country national, you may still be able to bring your parents to Germany. However, the eligibility criteria may be more stringent, and you may need to provide additional documentation to prove your relationship.

Other relatives who may be eligible to bring their parents to Germany include siblings, uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins, and grandparents. Registered partners and civil partners may also be eligible.

In summary, to bring your parents to live with you in Germany, you must meet certain eligibility criteria depending on your nationality and status in Germany. These criteria include having a valid residence permit , sufficient financial resources, suitable accommodation, and health insurance. Family members of German nationals, EU citizens, and third-country nationals may be eligible, as well as other relatives and registered partners.

Application Process

If you are planning to invite your parents to Germany, you need to apply for a visa for them. Here’s what you need to know about the application process.

Required Documents

To apply for a visa for your parents, you need to submit the following documents:

• Valid passport
• Birth certificate
• Marriage certificate (if applicable)
• Death certificate of the spouse (if applicable)
• Adoption certificate (if applicable)
• Employment contract (if applicable)
• Photo (biometric photo preferred)

Make sure that all the documents are complete and up-to-date. If any of the documents are in a language other than German or English, you need to get them translated by a certified translator.

Steps to Apply

Here are the steps to apply for a visa for your parents:

• Download the visa application form from the website of the German embassy or consulate in your country.
• Fill out the application form completely and accurately.
• Gather all the required documents.
• Schedule an appointment with the German embassy or consulate in your country.
• Submit the application form and the required documents in person during your appointment.
• Pay the visa fee.

The visa fee for parents of German citizens or residents is €75 per person. For non-German citizens, the visa fee may vary depending on the type of visa and the duration of stay. You can pay the visa fee in cash or by credit card at the time of your appointment.

Keep in mind that the visa processing time may vary depending on the embassy or consulate. It is recommended that you apply for the visa well in advance of your parents’ planned travel dates.

Residence Permits

If you wish to bring your parents to Germany, they will need a residence permit. A residence permit is a document that allows foreign nationals to stay in Germany for a certain period of time. There are different types of residence permits, and each type has its own set of requirements.

Types of Residence Permits

The following are the most common types of residence permits that your parents may apply for:

• Residence Permit : This permit allows your parents to stay in Germany for a limited period of time. To apply for this permit, they will need to provide proof of financial means, health insurance, and accommodation.
• EU Blue Card : This permit is for highly skilled workers who wish to work and live in Germany. To apply for this permit, your parents will need to have a job offer from a German employer and meet certain salary requirements.
• Settlement Permit : This permit allows your parents to stay in Germany indefinitely. To apply for this permit, they will need to have lived in Germany for a certain period of time and meet other requirements.
• EU Long-Term Residence Permit : This permit is for non-EU nationals who have lived in Germany for at least five years. To apply for this permit, your parents will need to meet certain requirements, such as having a clean criminal record and sufficient financial means.
• Permanent Residency : This permit allows your parents to stay in Germany indefinitely. To apply for this permit, they will need to have lived in Germany for a certain period of time and meet other requirements.

Application for Residence Permit

To apply for a residence permit, your parents will need to complete an application form. The application form can be obtained from the German embassy or consulate in their home country. They will need to provide various documents, such as proof of identity, proof of financial means, and health insurance. It is important to note that the requirements for a residence permit may vary depending on the type of permit and the individual circumstances of your parents.

In conclusion, obtaining a residence permit is an important step if you wish to bring your parents to Germany. There are different types of residence permits, and each type has its own set of requirements. Your parents will need to complete an application form and provide various documents to apply for a residence permit.

Living in Germany

If you are planning to live in Germany with your parents, there are some important things that you need to consider. In this section, we will discuss the accommodation requirements, health insurance, language skills, and employment opportunities in Germany.

Accommodation Requirements

When it comes to accommodation, there are different options available in Germany, such as renting an apartment or buying a house. If you are planning to rent an apartment, you need to provide proof of accommodation to obtain a visa. This can be done by signing a rental contract or getting a letter of confirmation from the landlord. You also need to have enough funds to cover the rent and other living expenses.

Health Insurance

Health insurance is mandatory in Germany, and you need to have it before you can obtain a visa. There are two types of health insurance available in Germany: statutory health insurance and private health insurance. Statutory health insurance is mandatory for employees with a gross salary of up to €64,350 per year. If you are self-employed or earn more than €64,350 per year, you can opt for private health insurance.

Language Skills

German is the official language in Germany, and having basic German language skills is essential for daily life. It is also required for most jobs in Germany. You can attend language courses to improve your language skills, and there are also online resources available to learn German.

Employment Opportunities

Germany has a strong economy, and there are many employment opportunities available for both German and non-German speakers. If you are a non-German speaker, you can work in Germany if you have the necessary skills and qualifications. You can also start your own business if you have the required capital and skills.

In conclusion, living in Germany with your parents requires careful planning and preparation. You need to have adequate accommodation, health insurance, language skills, and employment opportunities to make your stay in Germany successful.

Legal Assistance

If you are a parent seeking a visa to join your child in Germany, you may benefit from seeking legal assistance from an immigration lawyer. Immigration lawyers can help you navigate the complex legal requirements and procedures for obtaining a visa for parents in Germany.

One law firm that specializes in immigration law is Schlun & Elseven Rechtsanwälte. They have a team of experienced immigration lawyers who can provide legal assistance to parents seeking a visa for Germany. They can help you with the application process, provide advice on the necessary documents, and represent you if necessary.

Legal assistance can also be helpful if you encounter any issues during the application process. For example, if your application is rejected, an immigration lawyer can help you understand the reasons for the rejection and advise you on how to appeal the decision.

It is important to note that legal assistance can come at a cost. However, the benefits of having an experienced immigration lawyer on your side can outweigh the cost in the long run.

In summary, seeking legal assistance from an immigration lawyer can be beneficial when applying for a visa for parents in Germany. Schlun & Elseven Rechtsanwälte is one law firm that specializes in immigration law and can provide legal assistance to parents seeking a visa for Germany.

Additional Information

If you are interested in bringing your parents to Germany, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind. This section will provide you with some additional information to help you navigate the process.

Processing Time

The processing time for a visa application can vary depending on a number of factors, including the type of visa you are applying for and the workload of the immigration authorities. It is important to apply for a visa well in advance of your planned travel dates to allow sufficient time for processing.

Family Reunification Rights

If you are a German citizen or a legal resident of Germany, you may have the right to bring your parents to Germany under the family reunification provisions of German immigration law. However, there are certain requirements that must be met, including financial means, income, and the right of care and custody. In addition, there are restrictions on polygamous marriages and bringing other family members to Germany.

Other Important Considerations

Here are some other important things to keep in mind when applying for a visa for your parents:

• Sponsorship: You will need to provide evidence that you can financially support your parents during their stay in Germany.
• German Citizenship: If you are a German citizen, your parents may be eligible for a visa under different rules than if you are a legal resident of Germany.
• Humanitarian Reasons: In some cases, you may be able to apply for a visa for your parents on humanitarian grounds, such as if they are in need of medical treatment.
• Unavoidable Hardship: If you can demonstrate that your parents would suffer significant hardship if they were not allowed to come to Germany, you may be able to apply for a visa under this provision.
• Tourist Visa: If your parents are only planning to stay in Germany for a short period of time, they may be eligible for a tourist visa.
• Invitation Letter: You will need to provide an invitation letter to your parents, which should include information about your relationship, the purpose of their visit, and the duration of their stay.
• European Union: If you are a citizen of a European Union country, you may be able to bring your parents to Germany under the EU’s freedom of movement provisions.
• Immigration Authorities: You will need to apply for a visa through the German immigration authorities.
• European Economic Area: If you are a citizen of a country in the European Economic Area or the European Free Trade Association, you may be able to bring your parents to Germany under certain conditions.
• Study: If you are a student in Germany, you may be able to bring your parents to Germany under certain conditions.
• Legal Residence: You will need to have a legal residence in Germany in order to bring your parents to Germany.
• Valid Passport: Your parents will need to have a valid passport in order to apply for a visa.
• Translation: If any of your documents are not in German, you will need to provide a translation.
• Short-Stay Visa: If your parents are only planning to stay in Germany for up to 90 days, they may be eligible for a short-stay visa.
• Minors: If your parents are traveling with minors, there are additional requirements that must be met.

Overall, bringing your parents to Germany can be a complex process, but with careful planning and preparation, it is possible to navigate the procedures successfully.

In conclusion, obtaining a visa for parents in Germany can be a complex process, but it is possible with the right preparation and documentation. The German government recognizes the importance of family reunification and has created several visa options for parents of German citizens or residents.

If you are planning to bring your parents to Germany, you should research the different types of visas available and choose the one that best suits your needs. The most common options are the Schengen visa, the long-term visa, and the family reunion visa.

It is important to note that the application process for a visa can take several months, so it is recommended that you start the process as early as possible. You will need to provide detailed documentation, including proof of financial means, health insurance, and a clean criminal record.

Once your parents arrive in Germany, they will need to register with the local authorities and obtain a residence permit. They may also be required to take a German language course and attend an integration course.

Overall, bringing your parents to Germany can be a rewarding experience for both you and your family, but it requires careful planning and preparation. By following the guidelines set forth by the German government and providing all necessary documentation, you can ensure a smooth and successful visa application process.

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Visa for Germany

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Please contact the Help Desk if you haven't found the answer to your question.

You are living abroad and you are in need of consular information? Please contact the German mission which is competent for your place of residence.

German missions abroad: Countries A to Z

Do I need a visa for Germany?

On the Federal Foreign Office webpage you can find out whether you need a visa for visits to Germany and the Schengen states of up to 90 days. Most non- EU -foreigners wanting to work or study in Germany or to stay longer than 90 days in Germany for other purposes, usually need a visa.

Exceptions are indicated in the relevant list of countries.

• Overview of visa requirements/exemptions for entry into the Federal Republic of Germany
• The Schengen Agreement

Visa regulations

I am a (non-German) EU citizen and want to visit Germany with my spouse (who is not an EU citizen). Does my spouse need a visa?

If you and/or your spouse live in a Schengen country, the situation is as follows:

As holder of a residence permit issued by a Schengen country, you need no visa for short-term stays in other Schengen countries - so you need no visa for Germany either. In any 180 days period you may stay for up to 90 days maximum in another Schengen country. Please check with the relevant authorities in your country of residence whether your spouse's residence permit entitles him or her to visa-free travel within the Schengen area.

If you or your spouse live in an EU country where the Schengen Agreement does not apply or not apply in full, the situation is as follows:

If the authorities of your country of residence have issued your spouse with a “residence card of a family member of a Union citizen” pursuant to Art. 10(1) of Directive 2004/38/EC, he or she needs no visa for travel within the EU .

If you and your spouse live outside the EU , your spouse will need an entry visa if he or she is from a country subject to a visa regime. In this case, however, a facilitated visa procedure applies.

If you have further questions, please visit the website of the relevant German mission or contact the mission directly.

The EU provides a guide to your rights as an EU citizen .

Are there special visa arrangements for EU citizens?

EU citizens do not need a visa to visit, live or work in Germany. They only have to register at the local German registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt).

Additional information is available at the European Job Mobility Portal.

• European Job Mobility Portal

Do foreigners with a residence permit for one of the Schengen member states need a visa to visit Germany?

Please note that not all EU members fully apply the Schengen Agreement, but that some non- EU countries do apply it fully.

Non- EU citizens living in one of the countries that do apply the agreement fully (so-called Schengen States) with a valid residence permit do not need a visa for visits to Germany of up to 90 days in any period of 180 days when not taking up work.

Schengen states:

Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland. For non- EU citizens living in another European country regular visa regulations apply.

My visa was issued by a mission of another Schengen state. Can I use it to travel to Germany?

Yes. Holders of

- a Schengen visa (text on the visa reads “valid for Schengen states”),

- a residence permit of a member state or

- a national visa of a member state

can also travel to Germany for up to 90 days in any period of 180 days.

The Schengen visa should, however, have been issued by a mission of the country which is the main destination. The country of entry and departure is not the determining factor.

What countries are Schengen states?

I'm planning a trip by air and have to transit at a german airport. do i need a visa.

The vast majority of foreign travellers benefit from the “transit privilege” - if during a stopover at a German airport, you do not leave the International Airport Area and if the destination is not in a Schengen country, you do not need a transit visa.

However, if for some reason you need to enter the Schengen area during your stopover (for example to change terminals or if the destination is in a Schengen country), you may require a visa; please plan for this. You should apply for a visa well before you travel!

Only five airports in Germany have an International Transit Area enabling you to transit without formally entering the Schengen area:

• Frankfurt/Main
• Hamburg (4.30 a.m. - 11.30 p.m. only)
• Düsseldorf (6.00 a.m. - 9.00 p.m. only) and if the airline has arranged the transit beforehand with the authorities responsible for cross-border security (the Federal Police)
• Berlin-Brandenburg

Nationals of the following countries do not have the transit privilege and therefore require an airport transit visa (category A) for transit at a German airport:

• Afghanistan
• Democratic Republic of the Congo
• South Sudan

* certain exceptions apply to these countries

Exceptions from the requirement to hold an airport transit visa:

• Holders of valid visas and national residence permits from EU and Schengen countries
• Holders of certain national residence permits from the following countries: Andorra, Japan, Canada, San Marino, United States of America
• Holders of valid visas from the EEA countries (the EU , Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland) and visas issued by Japan, Canada and the United States of America

I don't need a visa for my trip to Germany, but are there other things I should bear in mind?

You can only enter Germany if you have valid identity papers. On the planned date of departure from Germany, your passport has to be valid at least for another three months and it has to be issued within the last 10 years.

In certain cases, documents have to be presented that prove the purpose and circumstances of the visit.

Similarly, proof may also have to be provided that you have sufficient funds to maintain yourself during your stay and to finance the return trip. The amount of funding depends on the type and length of stay. There are no fixed daily rates.

You are advised to take out health insurance before your trip which also covers return transport to your home country.

In cases of repeated entries and a longer duration foreigners who are not nationals of a European Union or European Economic Area state must bear in mind that visits to the Schengen area are restricted to 90 days in any period of 180 days.

For longer stays for example to study or take up employment, different regulations often apply.

What is the procedure for applying for a work visa?

What is the procedure for applying for a student visa, my visa was issued by a german mission abroad. can i use it to travel to other countries in europe, do i have to enter and leave via germany or can i do so elsewhere.

Yes, you can. Holders of

- a Schengen visa (text on the visa reads “valid for Schengen states”)

- a national visa (D-visa)

can stay in the entire Schengen area for up to 90 days in any period of 180 days. The Schengen area consists of the following countries:

Germany, Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland.

The Schengen visa has to be applied for at the foreign mission of the country which is the main destination. The country of entry and departure is not the determining factor. The entry into and departure from the Schengen area can thus occur at any border crossing.

I am a foreigner living in Germany and am planning a trip abroad. Do I need a valid passport and visa?

As a foreigner you are requested to hold a valid passport or document in lieu of a passport at any time. In general, the issuance and extension of foreign passports have to be applied for at the competent foreign missions in Germany, except for recognized asylum seekers, recognized refugees according to the Geneva Refugee Convention, stateless persons or those entitled to subsidiary protection. The mentioned groups are mostly issued a passport in lieu of a passport (Passersatzpapier) by the local Immigration Office (Ausländerbehörde) at the place of residence. There are three types of those documents:

- Travel document for refugees (“Blue Passport”)

- Travel document for stateless persons

- Travel document for foreigners

Holders of Blue Passports are in general allowed to travel to all the countries which have signed the Geneva Refugee Convention. Please note that for many of these countries, however, you may have to apply for a visa in advance. Information on visa provisions for non-German citizens wanting to travel to a third country can only be provided by the respective foreign mission of the country concerned. The addresses of the foreign missions in Germany are available here:

Foreign Missions in Germany

However, you are not allowed to travel to your country of origin - this would imply that you no longer need humanitarian protection; you risk losing your asylum in Germany if you travel to your home country.

Foreign nationals who are in possession of a valid German residence title (Aufenthaltstitel) may travel for a period of up to 90 days within 180 days to other Schengen-States, so do not need a visa. This applies as well to holders of a German Visa of the category “D”.

In both cases, general entry requirements of Article 6 Section 1 letters a, c and e of the Regulation ( EU ) 2016/399 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 9 March 2016 on a Union Code on the rules governing the movement of persons across borders (Schengen Borders Code) are fulfilled and the person is not listed by the relevant Member State as not permitted.

In case of doubt please get in touch with the competent mission of the country in Germany.

• Who are Member States of the Schengen Agreement?
• Vertretungen anderer Staaten: Länder A-Z
• Schengen Border Code
• Travelling abroad for refugees (Handbook Germany)

Germany, Austria, Belgium, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland have all acceded to the Schengen Agreement and are thus Schengen states.

The Schengen area thus includes all EU member states except Ireland and Cyprus; at present the EU members Bulgaria and Romania only apply some of the Schengen provisions. Until these three countries apply what is known as the Schengen acquis in full, as is their aim, passport controls will remain in place at internal borders. In addition to the EU countries already mentioned, Iceland, Norway, Switzerland and Liechtenstein are also Schengen states.

Holders of Schengen visas (text on the visa reads “valid for Schengen states” in the language of the issuing country) may spend up to 90 days in a given 180 days period in the Schengen area, provided their visa is valid at the time. The same applies to holders of most national residence permits and national category D visas issued by individual Schengen states for long‑term visits of more than three months. A separate visa may well be needed for travel to other EU states which are not Schengen states.

Where do I have to apply for my visa? And who is responsible for the decision?

Visas have to be applied for prior to entry at the German mission abroad covering the place of residence of the applicant.

Please find more information on the webpage of the competent German mission.

The decision on granting a visitor/business visa lies with the competent German mission abroad. The mission also decides on granting visas for longer stays and/or to take up work or studies. These, however, can in most cases only be issued with the approval of the aliens authority concerned.

If a visa application is rejected, the applicant has the option of writing to the visa department of the competent German mission abroad asking for the reasons leading to the rejection of your application (known as remonstration). Please note that you have to submit the remonstration yourself.

How long does my passport have to be valid if I want to apply for a visa for a trip to Germany?

On the planned date of departure from Germany, your passport has to be valid at least for another three months and it has to be issued within the last 10 years. It should also contain at least two empty pages where the visa can be inserted.

I want to travel to Germany/the Schengen area several times in the next few months. Can I apply for a visa with longer validity?

The mission abroad decides what type of visa to issue (period of validity, number of days covered) on the basis of the documents submitted. If necessary, it may issue a visa that entitles the holder to enter the Schengen area on multiple occasions within the given period of validity. Such annual or multi-annual visas, which are valid for one or more years, are as a rule only issued to persons who have already been to Germany or other Schengen states several times in the past and whom the mission abroad considers to be particularly trustworthy (e.g. because of their position in the host country). Please note that regardless of the length of validity, visas only entitle the holder to a maximum stay of 90 days in any period of 180 days.

I am in Germany on a tourist/visitor/business visa. For important reasons, I want to stay in Germany past the expiry date of my visa.

Can i have my visa extended in germany.

It is only possible to extend the validity of visas in certain exceptional cases. This can only be done by the foreigners authority in Germany covering the place of residence of the visa holder. This is the only authority that can decide on an extension of a visa during a visit to Germany. Neither the Federal Foreign Office nor its missions abroad can do so.

The person I issued an invitation for has had their visa application rejected (Tourist/Visitor/Business). What can I do?

The notification sent to the applicant by the mission abroad states not only that the visa application has been unsuccessful, but also gives the grounds on which it was rejected and information on the applicant's right to appeal the decision.

If a visa application is rejected, the applicant has one month to appeal in writing (“remonstrate”) to the mission abroad. The mission abroad will then reconsider the application.

If the mission still concludes that the applicant does not meet the conditions for obtaining a visa, it will again set out in detail in writing the reasons why it rejected the application in a Remonstrance Notice.

The applicant may appeal this decision within one month by filing an action with the Administrative Court in Berlin.

The applicant also has the option of appealing to the Court (also within one month) against the initial decision instead of remonstrating to the mission.

For reasons of data protection, information about individual visa applications may only be provided to the applicant personally or to a person whom the applicant has authorized in writing to receive such information.

What is the procedure for applying for a tourist/visitor/business visa? Can we apply for the visa in Germany?

The visa always has to be applied for by the person who intends to travel to Germany. Details on the documents to be presented at the time of application are often available on the webpage of the competent German mission or directly from the mission itself.

For private visits, an invitation is usually required to confirm the purpose of the journey. In case the visitor is not able to fully cover the expenses associated with the trip a formal pledge to cover all costs (declaration of commitment) has to be presented with the visa application. In this case the host can sign the relevant form (“Verpflichtungserklärung”) at his/her residency's local authorities (usually Ordnungsamt or Ausländerbehörde).

For my visa application I need an invitation from a relative/acquaintance living in Germany. What form does such an invitation have to take?

In the first place, an invitation proves the purpose of the intended journey. Therefore, no special formalities are required. If, however, the host intends to cover the expenses associated with the trip, a formal pledge to cover all costs (declaration of commitment) has to be presented with the visa application. In this case the host can sign the relevant form (“Verpflichtungserklaerung”) at his/her residency's local authorities (usually Ordnungsamt or Auslaenderbehoerde).

I am not a German national and want to marry my German partner in Germany. What do we have to do to get an entry visa?

First of all find out from the competent registry office in Germany what documents you and your German spouse have to present in order to marry in Germany.

As soon as the registry office confirms your documents are complete, you can apply for a visa to marry in Germany.

Once you are married the final residence and work permit will be issued by the foreigners authority in Germany.

Details on the documents to be presented with your visa application are often available on the webpage of the competent German mission abroad or directly from the mission itself.

Does my foreign spouse have to provide proof of German language skills when applying for a visa (i.e. before arriving in Germany?)

I am not an eu national and want to live in germany with my german spouse. what do we have to do.

First of all you have to apply for a visa for family reunification (subsequent immigration of spouses) from the competent German mission abroad.

Documents required include an authenticated marriage certificate as well as the German passport of the German spouse.

The German mission will forward the visa application to the foreigners authority in the place where you want to live in Germany for an opinion.

The German mission abroad can only issue a visa for entry once the foreigners authority has given its approval. The final residence permit will be issued by the foreigners authority in Germany once you are there.

I am a German citizen and want to move to another EU country with my spouse (who is not an EU citizen). Does my partner require a visa?

National residence permits issued by the Federal Republic of Germany entitle the bearer to travel to the other Schengen countries of the EU without a visa. If you intend to move to an EU country that does not belong to the Schengen area, it is possible that your spouse may not require a visa if he or she holds a national residence permit.

If your spouse does not hold a national residence permit, an entry visa is generally required if he or she is from a country subject to a visa regime. In this case, however, a facilitated visa procedure applies.

A visa is not required if your spouse has been issued with a “Residence card of a family member of a Union citizen” pursuant to Art. 10 (1) of Directive 2004/38/EC. If you and your spouse intend to move from one EU country, of which you are not a national, to another EU country, you should first establish the applicable regulations with regard to visas.

If you have any other questions, please contact the responsible mission abroad for the EU country in question directly and visit their website for further information.

I am not a German national but am living and working in Germany with a valid residence permit. Can my spouse ....

...who is also not a German national live and work with me in Germany?

If you want to live in Germany with your spouse you have to submit an application for family reunification to the competent German mission abroad. Details on the documents to be presented with your visa application are often available on the webpage of the competent German mission abroad or directly from the mission itself.

EU citizens as well as citizens of Iceland , Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland citizens have the right to live and work in Germany . After arrival , they just need to register with the appropriate office of the town hall ( mostly called “Einwohnermeldeamt” or “ Bürgeramt ”) of their residence in Germany .

Studying and working in Germany

Yes. Under the amended Immigration Act which entered into force on 28 August 2007, foreign spouses have to prove they have at least a basic knowledge of German. For detailed information on this, please click on the link below to the website of the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees. You can also request further information directly from the German diplomatic missions in the respective country.

• Federal Office for Migration and Refugees

Do I need a visa if I want to study/work in Germany?

As a general rule, all foreigners staying in Germany for more than 90 days wanting to work or study in Germany need a visa before entering Germany. For more information:

Nationals of Australia, Canada, Great Britain, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea and the United States may apply for the necessary permit after arrival in Germany. The same applies for nationals of Andorra, Brazil, El Salvador, Honduras, Monaco and San Marino who do not intend to take up employment.

EU citizens as well as citizens of Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland citizens have the right to live and work in Germany. After arrival, they just need to register with the appropriate office of the town hall (mostly called “Einwohnermeldeamt” or “Bürgeramt”) of their residence in Germany.

If you plan to study in Germany, you have to submit an application for a student visa to the respective German mission abroad before travelling. Citizens of the EU are exempted from this duty, as well as - under certain conditions according to the EU -mobility program - foreigners who already hold a temporary residence permit as a student issued by another EU -country, due to the EU -mobility program, please see the Implementation Status of the REST-Directive of the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees.

Documents have to be presented proving inter alia that the applicant has been accepted for studies by the university. The German mission abroad will then forward the visa application for an opinion to the foreigners authority in the town housing the University.

The German mission abroad can only issue the visa for entry once the foreigners authority has given its approval.

Details on the documents to be presented with your visa application are often available on the website of the competent German mission abroad or directly from the mission itself. the application form for a visa can be downloaded here .

When applying for a student visa, how can I prove that my financing is secure?

Financing can be proved by presenting the income and financial circumstances of parents, by a declaration of commitment in line with Article 66-68 Aufenthaltsgesetz (German Foreigners Act) made by a person with sufficient assets or income, by paying a security into a blocked account in Germany, or by depositing an annually renewable bank guarantee at a bank in Germany. Proof of sufficient funds is also taken as satisfied if the stay is being financed by a scholarship from public funds or a scholarship from an organization recognized in Germany or a scholarship financed by public funds in the country of origin, if the Federal Foreign Office, the German Academic Exchange Service ( DAAD ) or another German organization granting scholarships has been responsible for providing the link to a German higher education institution.

• German Academic Exchange Service ( DAAD )
• I want to study in Germany. Where can I apply for a scholarship?

How long does it take to issue my student visa? Can you speed up the process?

Visa applications of students need amongst other things the approval of the competent German alien´s authority. Therefore the processing time for student visas may take several weeks, in individual cases even months. Applicants for student visas are encouraged to read all the relevant information on the respective German mission´s website carefully before their appointment and hand in only complete paperwork. This is the best way to assure a speedy process.

As soon as there is a development in the processing, the applicant will be contacted.

Kindly be advised that the help desk of the German Foreign Office is not able to speed up the process or check the status of the application.

As a general rule non- EU nationals need a residence title (visa or residence permit) to take up employment in Germany. By law the residence title has to give information whether and to which extent access to the labour market is granted. This information replaces the former work permit. If you intend to commence work in Germany you have to apply for a visa with the competent German mission abroad before entering Germany. (Only nationals of Australia, Canada, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea and the United States may apply for the necessary residence title after arrival in Germany.)

Details as to which documents have to be presented with your visa application are available on the webpage of the competent German mission abroad or directly from the mission itself.

Can I take on holiday jobs in Germany?

Germany has concluded bilateral agreements on working holiday stays with Australia, New Zealand, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Taiwan, Israel, Chile, and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.

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Frequently asked questions (faq).

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• What special conditions apply to entry into Germany by family members who are nationals of a third-country that is not on the “safe" list?

What special conditions apply to entry into Germany by family members who are nationals of a third-country that is not on the “safe" list?

type: Frequently asked

The entry requirements for family members from third countries that are not on the positive list are determined by the type of family relationship and the purpose of entry:

Entry for the purpose of family reunification or marriage

Generally, nationals of countries outside of the EU who are members of the immediate family (spouses, children under 18, parents of children under 18) are permitted to enter Germany for the purpose of joining their families if the necessary requirements for entry are met (e.g. D visa). The family members are allowed to enter Germany for reunification with the reference person or together with the reference person if the reference person is entering Germany for the first time for the purpose of a long-term stay. However, the reference person must be exempted from applicable entry restrictions.

Entry for the purpose of marriage is also possible.

Short-term entry by immediate family members who are citizens of countries outside of the EU

Nationals of countries outside of the EU who are members of the immediate family (spouses, civil partners and children under 18 or the parents of children under 18) of citizens of Germany, of another EU country, or of Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland or of non-EU nationals who already have a right of residence in Germany are permitted to enter Germany for short-term family visits. This applies regardless of whether the non-EU national family member enters together with the reference person or alone.

Spouses or civil partners of citizens of Germany, of another EU country, or of Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway or Switzerland are allowed to enter Germany regardless of whether the reference person has his/her permanent residence in Germany or abroad. In these cases an urgent family reason is no longer required for entry. This is the case regardless of the whether the reference person additionally holds the nationality of a country outside of the EU.

The following documents may serve as evidence that one is an immediate family member (depending on the type of family relationship):

• marriage certificate, certificate of civil partnership;
• birth certificate;
• notarised extract from the family record or the civil status register.

If the traveller is entitled to enter Germany without requiring a visa, the authenticity of official foreign documents must be verified unless the documents were issued in one of the countries listed in section 14 (1) of the Ordinance Governing Residence ( Aufenthaltsverordnung , AufenthV) (Australia, Israel, Japan, Canada, Korea, New Zealand, United States of America). The authenticity can be verified through legalisation or through an apostille in accordance with the Hague Convention Abolishing the Requirement of Legalisation for Foreign Public Documents. For an overview of whether an apostille is sufficient to verify a public document from a particular country of origin or legalisation is required, please refer to the German Notary Institute’s country list for apostille and legalisation . For more details regarding legalisation and apostille procedures, please refer to the website of the Federal Foreign Office.

For travellers who require a visa to enter Germany, the missions abroad decide during the visa application procedure whether to recognise the foreign documents.

Short-term entry by first- and second-degree relatives who are citizens of non-EU countries only if urgent family reasons are demonstrated

Non-EU nationals who are first- or second-degree relatives but not members of the immediate family (including adult children, parents of adult children, siblings and grandparents) of citizens of Germany, of another EU country, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland or of non-EU nationals who already have a right of residence in Germany are generally not permitted to enter Germany for short-term family visits.

Exemptions are made only for urgent family reasons; the following cases and occasions are considered to constitute urgent family reasons:

• deaths/funerals

special exceptional cases in which there is an urgent family reason (e.g. serious illness of a first- or second-degree relative who therefore urgently needs help, or absence of any other adult who is the legal guardian of a child under 18).

Travellers are asked to carry with them suitable proof of an urgent family reason, which clearly demonstrates the need to cross the border. If there is a compelling family reason for entry, for example if the non-EU national parents-in-law wish to accompany the bridal couple, non-EU nationals are allowed to enter Germany together with the reference person.

Short-term entry by more distant family members

Non-EU nationals who are more distant family members and are not at least first- or second-degree relatives are not permitted to enter for family reasons.

Return to habitual abode

Re-entry by non-EU nationals who are family members to return to their habitual abode in Germany is permitted if the conditions under residence law (particularly possession of valid border documents and any necessary residence titles) are met, regardless of the reference person.

Regardless of the criteria stated above, the decision on whether to permit entry is at the discretion of the officers conducting border checks.

Travelers must also observe the requirements of the coronavirus entry regulation.

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A Schengen visa is required if you intend to stay in the Schengen area for up to 90 days within a 180 day period for business, visitor or tourist purposes.

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• Migration and residence
• Immigrants from third countries

Family reunification

Spouses and registered partners, parents and minor, unmarried children may migrate to Germany in order to join their family members in order to protect the institution of marriage and the family.

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As a matter of principle, the conditions vary according to whether you wish to come to Germany to join

• a German national ,
• an EU citizen or
• a third-country national .

Family members coming to Germany for the purpose of family reunification are allowed to work in Germany.

The legal basis

• Section 27 et seqq. of the Residence Act
• Section 3 of the EU Freedom of Movement Act (FreizügG/EU)

Sub-pages on this topic

• Subsequent immigration to join German nationals
• Reunification with EU nationals
• Subsequent immigration to join third-country nationals

Declaration of Commitment for a Visitor Visa

Can I submit a declaration of commitment?

To obtain a visitor visa for Germany, third-country nationals (non-EU citizens) usually have to prove that they have enough money to support themselves during their stay, even if they only want to visit family or friends for a short time. But if someone cannot prove they have enough money themselves, someone living in Germany can vouch for the visitor(s). This can be a relative or acquaintance - or a company or institution in Germany that can prove they have enough money. Such a guarantee is known as a "Verpflichtungserklärung" or "declaration of commitment", and visitor(s) can present it to the embassy as proof of funding when they apply for their visa(s).

Here you can learn whether and how you can submit a declaration of commitment for a visitor visa. You can find all the other details about visitor visas in our chapter " Visitor Visa ". And, you can learn more about the declaration of commitment for long-term stays in our chapter " Declaration of commitment for a national visa ".

What do I need to know?

To visit Germany, one often has to prove that they can pay for their trip and stay in Germany. When someone cannot do so, a third person can make a so-called "declaration of commitment" for them. With such a declaration, the third person undertakes to bear the costs for the visitor(s) in an emergency, including costs of medical treatment or possible deportation.

If, for instance, friends or family members of yours want to apply for a visa for Germany but cannot prove that they can pay the expenses for the trip and their stay, you can submit a declaration of commitment for them.

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To be able to submit a declaration of commitment, you must meet the following requirements:

• You must be registered in Germany.
• You must have German citizenship,  or  the citizenship of an EU country, Iceland, Liechtenstein or Norway,  or  a valid residence permit  or  permanent residence permit in Germany.  Please note:  Your residence permit must be valid for longer than your visitor's stay in Germany.  Important : People with a residence permit, tolerated stay permit ("Duldung") or a so-called "Fiktionsbescheinigung" cannot submit a declaration of commitment.
• You must have enough income or savings and be able to prove it. You can find out more about in the section "How can I prove that I have enough money?" and "How much money do I need to have to declare my commitment for a visitor?".

The documents you can submit as proof of funding depend on your employment status:

I am an employee:

Your last three payslips. In case you don't receive a payslip every month, hand in your latest payslip and your bank statements from the previous three months.

I am retired:

Certificate of your retirement pension

I receive unemployment benefit I:

Certificate of your unemployment benefits

Please note : You cannot submit a declaration of commitment if you receive "Bürgergeld" or financial aid from the Social Welfare Office.

I am self-employed/freelancer:

• Your last tax assessment or
• A certificate from a tax advisor or auditor stating your current net income of the last three months
• Proof of the amount of your health insurance contributions if you are privately insured or proof of your membership in a statutory health insurance scheme

I do not have a regular income, but I have savings:

Proof of the amount of your savings.  Important : You must hand in the original document. Only savings accounts or time deposit accounts at German banks are accepted, i.e., accounts at foreign banks, stocks, funds, etc., are not recognised as proof. 

The amount of income or savings you need depends on who/how many people you want to invite to Germany. It also depends on whether you are married and/or have children.

If you are unmarried and have no children, expect the following sums:

• For a person of legal age, you need at least an income of € 1,265 net per month or a savings credit of at least € 15,180. For each additional adult you want to invite, the required net income increases by € 333 per month and the required savings credit increases by € 4,000.
• You need at least an income of € 1,502 net per month for one adult and one child or a savings credit of at least € 18,030. For each additional child, the required net income increases by € 237 per month and the required savings credit by € 2,850.
• If you only want to invite a minor, you need at least an income of € 1,169 net per month or a savings credit of at least € 14,030.

Please note:  If you have children or a spouse without their own income, the minimum income or the minimum savings balance you need increases. Inquire at the Immigration Office about the minimum income or minimum savings balance in your specific case.

A letter of commitment can be used for six months as proof of funding when applying for a visa. There should be no more than six months between the submission of the declaration of commitment and issuing the visa.

The obligation to pay all costs applies until the visitor(s) leaves the Federal Republic of Germany or is granted a residence permit on different grounds. Your obligation ends after five years at the latest. Until that point, you must assume all costs for the visitor in an emergency or repay them if the state incurs costs.

Important : Once the visa has been issued, you cannot withdraw your declaration of commitment.

With a declaration of commitment, you assume all costs that the German state could incur from the visitor in question, including:

• Cost of living (food, clothing, etc.)
• Cost of accommodation
• Cost of medical care
• Cost of a possible deportation

If the state incurs costs, you must repay the person.

You can only submit a declaration of commitment to the Immigration Office at your place of residence in Germany. To do so, you must appear in person and hand in your documents. You can find the address of the relevant Immigration Office at bamf.de .

You need an appointment to hand in the documents - and you can usually book one on the Immigration Office's website. If this is not possible, call them and ask for an appointment. To submit several declarations of commitment (for several visitors), you will usually need separate appointments. However, if you want to make a declaration of commitment for a married couple or parents with underage children, a single appointment will be sufficient.

Submitting a declaration of commitment costs € 29.

You must bring the following documents with you to your appointment at the Immigration Office:

• A completed form "Angaben zur Verpflichtungserklärung" for each person for whom you want to submit a declaration of commitment.  Exception : For married couples or parents with unmarried minor children, a single form is sufficient.
• A completed form "Belehrung zur Speicherung und Nutzung der Antragsdaten im VIS"
• An unsigned form "Zusatzerklärung zur Verpflichtungserklärung"
• Evidence of your income or savings
• Your ID or residence permit and passport
• A copy of the passport of the person for whom you want to make a declaration of commitment

Please note : The Immigration Office may require further documents from you.

If all of your documents are in order, the immigration authorities will generate the declaration of commitment directly during your appointment, and you will receive the original. You have to send the document to the person who wants to enter Germany to hand it to the German embassy along with all their other documents. Whether the person will finally be issued a visa is a decision of the embassy.

Deliberately providing incorrect or incomplete information when submitting a declaration of commitment is a criminal offence. If proven, the perpetrator may face a fine or prison sentence.

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Additional Links

Here is where and how you can apply for a Schengen visa for a stay of up to 90 days.

Here are the requirements you need to meet to obtain a Schengen visa. 

Here you can find the German embassy in your country.

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How to Bring Your Family to Germany on a Student Visa

Starting your studies in Germany as an international student means you might be able to bring your family with you. If you meet certain requirements and have a German residence permit, you can have your spouse and children join you while you study.

• International students in Germany can bring family members, including spouses and children, through the German Family Reunion Visa, while citizens from certain countries may enter without a visa but require a residence permit.
• Spouses, children under 16, and occasionally other family members like parents or extended relatives, can join the student in Germany, subject to specific conditions and requirements.
• Students must have a valid residence permit, sufficient living space, adequate health insurance, financial stability, and for some family members, proof of German language skills, to sponsor family members.
• Applications for the Family Reunion Visa must be made in the applicant’s home country or place of legal residence. The application requires an appointment, submission of documents, and, after arrival, applying for a German residence permit.

What Is the German Family Reunion Visa?

The German Family Reunion Visa (Visum zur Familienzusammenführung) is a special permit that allows the non-EU/EEA family members of foreign students in Germany to join them. 

Designed to keep families together, this visa enables close family members to live in Germany while the student is enrolled in a study course under the condition of holding a German residence permit for study.

Who Needs a German Family Reunion Visa to Join You During Your Studies?

Apart from citizens of the EU, Liechtenstein, Iceland, Norway, or Switzerland, anyone else wishing to join you during your studies in Germany needs some type of residence permit. 

Nationals from certain countries, which will be listed in the table below, can enter Germany without a visa but must secure the appropriate residence permit once they arrive. Nationals of any other country need to apply for a German Family Reunion Visa.

Which Family Members Can Apply for a German Family Reunion Visa?

The following members of your family are eligible to join you in Germany while you’re studying here:

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• Spouse/civil partner
• Children under 16
• Children over 16
• Biological and adoptive parents of German or foreign adult or minor children in Germany.
• Adult children wishing to join their parents in Germany.
• Minor children aiming to reunite with adult close family members in Germany.
• Extended family members such as siblings, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Prerequisites to Get a German Family Reunion Visa

To bring your qualifying family members to Germany while you’re studying as a foreigner, the following essential conditions need to be fulfilled:

General Requirements

To reunite with third-country nationals in Germany:

• Sponsors need a valid residence permit.
• Sufficient living space. Allocate about 12 square meters for each adult and 10 square meters for a child under 6 (babies up to 2 years old not included).
• Adequate health insurance. You can use “family insurance” to cover your family’s health; just show your insurance policy and a letter stating your family member will be added once they arrive.
• Financial security. Your income should cover your family’s needs independently, without resorting to public assistance. The amount depends on your family size and circumstances, and the Immigration Office (Ausländerbehörde) evaluates it on a case-by-case basis.
• German language skills . Some family members must demonstrate German language knowledge before receiving their visa and participate in integration courses upon arrival in Germany.

Your husband or wife is additionally subject to the following conditions to join you:

• Both you and your spouse must be at least 18 years old.
• Must show basic German skills (A1 level) with a test or through an interview at the embassy (EU or partner country citizens exempt; additional exemptions also available ).
• You should be married before getting your German Student Visa. For same-sex partners, your relationship should be officially registered before receiving the visa.

Children under 16 can move to Germany to join you without needing to meet extra conditions. This also applies to children older than 16 if they relocate to Germany within six months of their parents’ move.

However, if they are 16 or older and wish to come to Germany after this six-month window, they must either:

• Demonstrate German language proficiency at the C1 level as per the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, or
• Prove they can easily adapt to life in Germany, such as having attended a German-speaking school outside of Germany or growing up in a German-speaking home.

Parents or Other Members

This category includes a wide range of family members who may be eligible to join you in Germany to prevent significant hardship. These cases are evaluated individually and such members gain family reunion visas on very rare occasions. 

Some circumstances that could lead to family members being able to join in Germany include:

• Needing family support due to illness, disabilities, or psychological needs.
• Situations where family care can only be given in Germany, such as for special care needs.
• Well-being and care needs of minor children, depending on their age and situation.

In such cases, we recommend considering legal advice, as circumstances allowing family reunions in Germany vary and are complex.

How to Apply for a German Family Reunion Visa?

To apply for a German Family Reunion Visa, you must submit an application in your home country or the country in which you are legally residing. You’ll need to book an appointment in advance and provide all required documents during your visa interview. Appointments are usually booked online.

Upon arrival in Germany, within the initial 3 months, you must apply for a German residence permit at the local Immigration Office, using many of the same documents submitted for the visa application along with proof of current residence in Germany.

If your country doesn’t have a German embassy or consulate, you may need to apply for a German visa through the embassy or consulate of another country that represents Germany’s interests in your location.

Click here to find the nearest German embassy or consulate, and follow their instructions for more detailed information.

Note: Please be aware that in some countries (e.g. Pakistan), there’s a high demand for visa appointments, which could mean waiting times of up to a year. It’s crucial to book your appointment well in advance to avoid lengthy delays in your application process.

Visa Requirements for the German Family Reunion Visa

The documents needed to apply for a German Family Reunion Visa for each family member joining you are as follows:

Required Documents for Your Spouse

If you’re applying for the German Family Reunion Visa as the spouse of an individual holding a residence permit in Germany, you have to provide the following documents:

• Applicant’s valid passport (issued within the last 10 years and minimum one-year validity) + A4 size copy of your passport’s data pages
• Fully completed, signed, and printed application forms .
• Signed visa declaration .
• Completed contact information form (find it in the forms section).
• Two/three recent biometric photos ( see here for more details).
• Birth certificate.
• Proof of financial means (provided by the spouse or yourself).
• Copy of spouse’s valid German residence permit.
• Copy of spouse’s passport’s data pages.
• Certificate of residence (Meldebescheinigung) of the spouse living in Germany (no older than six months).
• Proof of marriage (birth certificate, marriage contract, and marriage certificate/registration).
• Proof of A1-level German knowledge (“Start Deutsch 1” from Goethe-Institute, “Start Deutsch 1” from telc GmbH, “Grundstufe Deutsch 1” from the ÖSD).
• Travel health insurance valid for 90 days (recommended).

In the case of previous marriages:

• Divorce decree of former marriage(s), or
• Death certificate of former spouse(s).

Required Documents for Your Child

Children planning to join their parent(s) in Germany must apply for the Family Reunion Visa with the documents below:

• Applicant’s valid passport (issued within the last 10 years and minimum one-year validity) + A4 size copy of your passport’s data pages.
• Fully completed and printed application forms , signed by all persons with parental rights.
• Signed declaration .
• Proof of financial means (provided by the parent).
• Copy of parents’ valid German residence permit.
• Copy of parent’s passport’s data pages.
• Certificate of residence (Meldebescheinigung) of the parent(s) living in Germany (no older than six months).
• Proof of marriage of parents (birth certificates, marriage contract, and marriage certificate/registration).

In the case of bringing a child to Germany without the other parent:

• The parent in Germany must prove sole custody with a custody order, or 
• A declaration of consent must be signed in person at the German Mission by the parent remaining in the home country.

In the case of children over the age of 16 and under 18:

• Proof of C1-level German knowledge.

Required Documents for Your Parent or Other Family Member

To understand what documents are needed for your parent or another family member, it’s best to talk to a lawyer or embassy representative for guidance. This is important, especially to figure out if your family member even qualifies to join you based on their situation. Remember, proving significant hardship for them can be tough, especially with a student visa.

Any documents not in German or English must be translated by a certified translator or notary and provided in either of these languages.

Additionally, note that the German Embassy may request extra documents or interviews, and failure to comply could lead to delays or denial of your application.

For a comprehensive list of specific requirements tailored to your situation, we recommend contacting your local German embassy or consulate. They can provide detailed guidance beyond the general requirements outlined here.

What Is the Processing Time for a German Family Reunion Visa?

The processing time for a German Family Reunion Visa can vary from a few weeks to several months, depending on factors such as the location and current workload of the embassy or consulate processing your application.

For those not requiring a visa to enter Germany but needing to apply for a family reunion residence permit at the Immigration Office (Ausländerbehörde), the processing time typically ranges from 1 to 3 months. This duration can vary depending on the workload of the immigration office, with larger cities like Berlin, Hamburg, and Munich often experiencing higher numbers of requests compared to smaller towns.

How Much Does It Cost to Apply for a German Visa for Family Members?

The fees for German family visa applications are:

• Adults (18 years and older): €75.00
• Children (under 18 years): €37.50

Fee waivers. Visa fees are waived for spouses and children of German or other EU citizens and parents of German or other EU minors. In these instances, applicants are required to include a copy of the marriage or birth certificate and the German or EU passport of the family member.

Payment method . Fees are typically payable in cash in the local currency (card payments are sometimes available). The exchange rate at the time of application determines conversion into the local currency. 

Can a Family Member of a Foreign Student Work in Germany?

Yes, once settled in Germany and granted a residence permit, family members of foreign students, such as spouses, are eligible to work in the country.

When Should I Apply for an Extension of a Family Reunion Residence Permit in Germany?

It’s best to schedule an appointment at the Ausländerbehörde (Immigration Office) 6-8 weeks before your residence permit expires.

Remember, when applying for an extension of a Family Reunion Residence Permit in Germany, the volume and processing time of requests can vary depending on the city where you reside. 

Is Bringing My Family to Germany on a Student Visa Difficult?

It’s not impossible to bring your family to Germany on a student visa, but it can be challenging for several reasons. 

• As a student, your income is typically limited because you’re only allowed to work part-time. This limited income may not be sufficient to cover additional expenses such as health insurance for your family members or to afford suitable housing for everyone.
• Pursuing your studies requires significant time and dedication. Managing the process of bringing your family to Germany can be time-consuming and may divert your focus away from your academic responsibilities. Balancing your studies with the visa application process and the needs of your family members can be quite demanding.
• It can take time for your spouse to find suitable employment after arriving in Germany. This can further complicate the financial aspect of bringing your family to Germany, as you may need a stable source of income to support everyone.

What Are Some Alternatives?

If your family member is a third-country national who requires a visa to enter Germany, they can also apply for a Schengen Visa to visit you occasionally. Your spouse can also explore if they individually qualify for one of the visas listed here .

Another option is to wait until you finish your studies and secure a job in Germany. Once employed, you can convert your student visa to a residence permit for employment. This transition can make it easier to meet the financial requirements and other criteria necessary to bring your family to Germany permanently.

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How do I bring my parents to Germany?

Summary: This article is about bringing parents to Germany, what the most common problems are and what roadblocks you’re going to face along the way. The question is probably one many of us have asked ourselves before moving to a foreign country, and this article can help serve as a guide to getting started since the process for everyone will be different.  We’ve searched through documents, asked experts, and taken a look at the government websites to find out how you can bring your parents to Germany and get them covered for health insurance.

Just like our article “ how to get insurance over the age of 55 ,” this one is going to be pretty tricky, so get comfortable and maybe get out a notebook. There is a lot of information you’ll need to gather for yourself and your parents, and it’s still not a guarantee that they’ll be able to live in Germany without taking a few drastic steps beforehand.

Preparation before starting the application process

Before your parents can apply for a visa , you will have to fulfill several requirements before your parents can even begin to think about coming to Germany. First, you’ll need to hold a long-term residency permit ( unbefristete Aufenthaltstitel ). This can be permanent residency or a blue card for highly skilled workers.

Another thing you’ll need to do is make sure that you can afford to support your parents and provide them with adequate accommodation. 

And, one of the hardest things: your parents will need to provide proof of health insurance outside of the public insurance domain. If they apply for their visa to work full-time, then this would be a different process since they could apply for a work permit instead of the reunification of families visa .

Application for the visa: reunification of families

Once you have a residency permit, your parents (among other eligible family members) can apply for the reunification of families visa. 

Your parents will need to apply for this visa at the German embassy in their country as a tourist visa might not allow them to make the appointment from within Germany. They will then be granted a limited period of stay. You’ll notice on the website linked above for the reunification of families that parents are only mentioned briefly — this is common in many documents that refer to this application process since Germany makes the processes for the elderly quite difficult. 

Required documents: 

• Biometric photo
• Proof of relationship
• Proof of residence
• Your registration certificate ( Anmeldung )
• Proof of sufficient health insurance
• Proof of income
• Proof of hardship

The most important document: proof of hardship

The reunification of families is mainly set out to reunify minor children with their parents and not adult children with their adult parents, which means that many people get denied in the process. Still, you’ll need to get an immigration lawyer before your parents apply to help you make your case for “proof of hardship” to the German court system. The lawyer is actually a requirement and not optional since the proof of hardship can only be determined in court. If you try to apply with your own written statement, then it’s up to whoever you meet at the Foreigner’s Office to decide if your country cannot offer a lifesaving service to your parents while Germany can.

What is proof of hardship?

German courts decide proof of hardship when non-EU residency permit holders request that their non-EU parents move to Germany. If you are a German citizen or an EU citizen, or the spouse of an EU citizen, this process is significantly easier. 

Your EU citizen spouse will need to apply for the reunification of families visa for your parents in their home country. So, if you’re married to someone from Spain, your parents will need to go to Spain and not Germany. If your spouse is German, your parents will still need all of the above documents, but with the exception of the “proof of hardship” court decision. 

For proof of hardship, you’ll not only need to prove that your parents will need long-term assisted care but also that this type of support is only available in Germany and not in their home country. Depending on the person overseeing your visa appointment, they may require additional information than what we’ve stated here. This seems to be a common occurrence with some appointments, and the only remedy we have is to make another appointment and hope it is with a more kind and compassionate person.

Health Insurance: the last barrier

So, you’ve managed to get an immigration lawyer and strategized how to get the proof of hardship for your parents. You’re all set, but the one thing you’re missing is proof of insurance outside of the public domain in Germany. 

You’ve probably thought about private insurance , but due to the proof of hardship, your parents will automatically be disqualified — because if they are eligible for private health insurance, they aren’t eligible for proof of hardship. 

The next step might be expat health insurance , and while this might seem like a great idea at first, there is a huge issue with using this insurance: it will only last 5 years, and it stops at the age of 75. Also, there is a good chance the visa office won’t accept it during the application process because the reunification of families visa assumes that your parents will be with you longer than five years.

So, which insurances are left?

After looking around, there aren’t many options. We found an insurance company called Cigna Global that is pretty expensive and provides little coverage that should work for the visa (we saw people denied and accepted with this insurance, so it depends on who you get at the Foreigner’s Office). Still, even if you get accepted with this insurance, you might end up paying out of pocket if your parents need to go to the hospital because the coverage seems unreliable from the reviews. 

We recommend that people over 55 find another country more suitable for retirement that offers public health insurance to pensioners and where their children can see them with only a short flight. If they somehow manage to get permanent residency in this other country, they can then transfer to Germany and use their EHIC .

This isn’t ideal by any means, but maybe if you work remotely for German company, you can support your parents in a country that allows for pensioner visas and easier access to the public health insurance system.

If this isn’t possible, your parents will most likely be stuck with an international health insurance plan like Cigna Global, which seems to provide little coverage.

Are there any other options?

Yes, but this might take longer. Under German law, if you give up your citizenship and become a German citizen ( this rule might change soon ), it will entitle you to different rights for the reunification of families. This is an option you should consider when speaking with your lawyer since it might end up providing the best care for your parents long-term when they come to Germany. 

If you become a citizen after they arrive, then they would have already opted out of public insurance and leave them trapped in the international insurance plan.

While becoming a German citizen might not be something you want to do, it might be your only option if you’re going to bring your parents to Germany to care for them. 

We wish you the best of luck!

While bringing your parents over on a reunification of families visa is made nearly impossible by different legal requirements, it could be possible for them to come on a work visa — even if it’s a smaller job. You can see our article on getting health insurnace over the age of 55 where we offer some ideas!

Further reading

Insurance Mythbusters: Is Private Health Insurance Always Unaffordable?

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Frequently Asked Questions

Health insurance guide.

• The Feather Guide to Health Insurance in Germany
• Self-assess your health insurance needs
• Our guide to private health insurance in Germany
• Our guide to expat health insurance in Germany
• Customer examples
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• How do I find a doctor in Germany?

Can I Bring My Parents to Germany?

It is natural to long for the company of your loved ones when you’re miles away from your homeland, and many expats in Germany often wonder: “Can I bring my parents to Germany?”

In this article, we will walk you through the process, explaining the important role that family reunification plays in the German immigration system. Moreover, we will also delve deep into the question of being able to bring your parents to Germany.

What about those who are already in Germany?

Furthermore, we will throw light on the language and integration requirements, accommodation and healthcare provisions, as well as the potential for permanent residency and citizenship.

NOTE: This update of the Skilled Immigration Law is only applicable for those who receive their VISA/EU Blue Card after March 1, 2024.

German Immigration Laws and Policies

Germany’s immigration laws used to be strict on family reunification. For instance, parents of a minor who is a resident, refugee, or entitled to asylum may join their child in Germany. However, the conditions for parents of adult residents are more stringent, and generally, parents are only allowed to join you if they are a case of ‘exceptional hardship’.

Usually it was only considered for parents with disabilities and need of a caretaker.

Read the law here .

New Law Regarding Bringing Parents to Germany

Recently, along with a variety of newly changed rules, the German government is trying to make it easier for you to bring your parents to Germany.

The Government is doing this because there is a labor shortage. In order to attract more talent to Germany, they have to make the country attractive. With this new law, Germany will be an attractive choice for migrants. Why? Because you can now bring your parents (and even your in-laws!) to Germany. Source: Bundesregierung

This would be a massive relief for people like you and me. As we have to rely on tourist visas to meet with our families. At present, the only convenient option for you to bring your parents to Germany is to apply for a tourist visa. It is not easy to go through the entire process at VFS, only to see your parents for a week.

However, from 1 March 2024, you can bring your parents to Germany if you fall under the following category.

Key Requirements for Bringing Parents to Germany

Any visa permitting employment in Germany now qualifies as a residency permit. Consequently, individuals can bring their parents to Germany under certain titles, such as:

• EU Blue Card: This card enables highly skilled non-EU nationals to reside and work in Germany, aiming to attract talent with sought-after skills.
• ICT Card: The ICT (Intra-Corporate Transfer) card facilitates the employment of skilled personnel from non-EU nations by multinational corporations (MNCs) in Germany. It streamlines the process of transferring employees within these organizations. For instance, individuals working for BMW/BOSCH/SIEMENS in India can easily transition to their German branches.
• Researchers
• Self-Employed Individuals
• IT Specialists

As a sponsor, you play a pivotal role in the immigration process. Your financial stability is key to your parents’ successful visa application.

• Financial Requirements : You must be able to provide evidence of stable income. Notably, this could be through employment income, savings, or property ownership.
• Supporting Parents Financially : You need to sign a declaration stating that you will bear all costs associated with your parents. It includes healthcare, food and other expenses.

Does this law allow students to bring their parents to Germany?

Unfortunately if you are on a Student Visa, this law does not apply to you. However, you do not have to worry. Once you finish your studies, you have a period of 18 months to seek jobs. And in case you find a full time job in Germany, then you can benefit from this law. With an employment title you can bring your parents to Germany.

In addition to students, this category of people are also missing out on the law. Because if you already are in Germany with an employment title issued before March 1, 2024. Then it is not applicable for you. Therefore you cannot bring your parents to Germany.

You can expect more changes in the future!

Do not worry if you are not in this category! Because at this point, we cannot say anything as final. We are expecting more changes to this law in the future.

Right now, this law only makes Germany attractive for NEW SKILLED MIGRANTS. However, if Germany want to keep the best talents in the country. They have to make sure that they bring laws in favor of those already in Germany.

The SPD (Political Party) of Berlin has already spoken regarding this.

“The Skilled Immigration Act 2.0 makes it easier for parents of foreign skilled workers arriving after March 1, 2024, to join them in Germany. They can get residency permits if they meet certain criteria and show they can support themselves. But this new rule doesn’t help other groups like Germans with foreign parents, skilled workers who came before March 1, 2024, and other foreigners with permits. They can only reunite with their parents in tough situations. While we like that it’s easier for some families to reunite and that it attracts skilled workers, it’s not fair to exclude others. We want fair rules so everyone who qualifies can benefit, not just based on when they arrived.”

Language and Integration Requirements

Integration into German society is paramount. Thus, parents need to demonstrate some knowledge of the German language and German society.

• Language Proficiency : At a minimum, parents would need to prove A1 level proficiency in German as per the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.
• Integration Courses : These are helpful in understanding the culture, legal system, history, and living in Germany. While these courses might not be mandatory, they would for sure help out in bettering the chances of obtaining permanent residency.

With our Faster German courses, you can now learn German at the MOST AFFORDABLE COST! I have personally built these courses. Once you enroll, you will get lifetime access. So learn flexibly!

The course includes fun ways of learning German such as Flashcards, Quizzes etc. You will also receive COMPLETE GOETHE EXAMINATION PREPARATION so that you can ace the tests!

Bringing your parents to Germany is a process that requires careful planning, a good understanding of immigration laws, and strong financial backing. Although it was challenging, things are changing now. We will keep you updated with more great news with regards to immigration law in Germany!

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Can I bring my parents to Germany permanently?

“Can I bring my parents to Germany permanently” is one of the deciding factors especially for Indians when it comes to moving and settling in Germany.

Update 29.06.2023 – With the new Immigration law in Germany , Skilled workers can bring their parents and parents-in-law to Germany.

Continue reading this post for the current situation. The new immigration law will be effective soon.

Before you start reading this post, I would like to make a few things clear:

• Through this post, I am not trying to make any judgment about the existing law or the rules.
• Everything I write below is from the resources available online (both official and unofficial)

In general, it is almost next to impossible to bring your parents to Germany permanently and you might have already read a lot of articles about it.

My intention in this article is to provide you with information about how and under what circumstances you can try to bring your parents to Germany permanently.

Ok, so let’s get started.

You are a foreigner (most probably an Indian national) who is working in Germany and your parents are living in another country (India) and you want to move them to Germany.

Does this sound like you?

If yes, then this post is for you and you can thank me later 🙂

So, I did some research for the last couple of days and came across some reliable sources of Information and some unofficial articles as well that helped me understand the whole scenario around this topic of family re-union visas for parents.

1. Family re-union for parents if the child is a German citizen

I came across this official checklist which indicates that you can apply for the family reunion visa for your parents if you are a German citizen

Looking at this official checklist, one can infer that there is a possibility to apply for a family reunion visa for your parents if you are a German citizen.

Here is a quora post that I found regarding this checklist.

Seems like Mr. Ram was already holding German citizenship before he applied for a family reunion visa for his mother.

I am not sure how genuine the quora post is. But, as far as the official checklist is concerned, it appears that there is a provision to bring your parents to Germany if you are a German citizen.

Even though the checklist and the Quora post looks promising, there are few questions that are unanswered:

• Am I eligible to bring my parents permanently to Germany If I give up my Indian citizenship and then accept the German citizenship?
• Is this applicable only if the child (German citizen) is under 18 years of age?
• Is this applicable even if there is no special case of hardship for the parents while staying alone in India?
• Is this applicable even if both the parents are alive and are applying for a family re-union visa for parents?

These are some of the questions that are still unanswered and maybe the best way is to discuss your case with the German embassy/consulate near your city in India.

Also, even if everything else is true and in your favor, you still have to remember that you are eligible to apply for German citizenship only after you stay for a period of 8 years in Germany .

2. Family reunion for parents in case of hardship

It has been stated officially that there exists a law according to which, you are eligible to bring your parents to Germany if there exists a special case of hardship.

Even though this law exists, it seems like the process of getting this visa approved is really hard, and only in exceptional cases, you might get a family reunion visa for your parents.

Here is a screenshot of the paragraph that particularly talks about this provision

You might be wondering why we are looking at a section that says “Other relatives”. This is because the rule for parents is applicable only till the child who is living in Germany is below 18 years of age.

And since you are already above 18, the rule of “other relatives” applies to you and your parents.

Let’s have a look at the English translation of “Section 36” which talks about the family reunion for parents.

It clearly says that if there is no parent in Germany who can take care of the child who is below 18 years of age, then the parents can apply for a family reunion visa.

In your case, the above rule will not be applicable as you are above 18. Hence only the second part of section 36 will apply.

According to this, your parents will be permitted to come to Germany (On a long-term visa) only if there is a special case of exceptional hardship.

Official reference with example

I came across an official website where you can read through immigration and visa-related real cases that happened in the past.

I will suggest you enable the auto-translation on your chrome browser and read through the case I am going to discuss below. It is really interesting.

On this website, there is this case (In German) where a lady (X) from the country of Peru wanted to join her daughter in Germany.

Her daughter (Y) got married to a German national in 2009.

On September 16, 2010, the applicant applied for a visa at the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany in Lima. 

She enclosed a letter from her son-in-law (Z), stating that the only close relative in Peru was her 85-year-old sister. 

The letter also had the following information:

Her only child moved to Germany after the marriage. 

X has serious health problems. 

Y and Z are prepared to bear all costs that would arise from the X’s stay in Germany. It is possible for her to take out health insurance in Germany. 

In addition, she submitted a declaration of commitment from Z dated August 16, 2010, in her favor, as well as a health and long-term care insurance offer from HUK-Coburg for an annual premium of 7,280 euros. 

Furthermore, X submitted a medical certificate from Dr. S …, a medical officer of the embassy, ​​dated September 13, 2010, according to which she suffered from asthma, high blood pressure, and circulatory disorders. 

She needs supervision and care by her daughter, an improvement of the condition is not to be expected due to her old age and a progressive course, she is fit to fly with an accompanying person. 

According to the medical certificate from the same doctor dated November 9, 2010, X is now in need of care: She needs help with daily personal hygiene, providing and taking medication, preparing meals, shopping for groceries, cleaning the apartment, and with of locomotion. 

The immigration authorities refused to give their consent to the issuing of a visa, considering that nursing staff and care facilities were available at X’s place of residence so that care was possible in her home country.

X took this matter to the court and challenged the decision of the immigration authority.

Finally, the court gave a judgment in the favour of X.

I will definitely recommend and request you to go through the whole interesting milestones in this case as quoted here .

As suggested earlier, use google chrome’s translation feature to read this in English.

Getting a long-term family reunion visa for your parents is not that easy.

There should be a strong and valid reason e.g – exceptional hardship if you plan to apply for this visa.

I hope this article gave you a short glimpse of the possibilities around getting a family reunion visa for your parent to bring them to Germany (permanently).

Please consult a professional immigration consultant/lawyer before you jump into the process of applying for this visa for your parents.

I wish you good luck and feel free to post your feedback, comment, and experience regarding this topic in the comments section below.

33 thoughts on “Can I bring my parents to Germany permanently?”

THanks mate ! This helped 🙂

Thanks for the feedback Clifton. I am happy that this post helped you.

Hello Mr. Nair,

Are there any exceptions in case my mother is a single parent? (parents divorced) Along with this my mother has some serious health issues (heart problems)

I’m a student studying here and I would start working full time soon.

I would suggest you give it a try. You might have noticed in the post that the process isn’t simple and there are 90% chances that you will get the visa denied. But, it might be worth trying for the remaining 10% chance.

I wish you good luck.

Hi, I have a job in Germany and my widow mother lives in India. She has some health issues due to age but no major problems, can i get long term residence permit for her. under dependent Visa ? How good are the chances of approval

Comments are closed.

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How To Invite Your Parents To Germany from India?

April 11, 2022

If you are looking for a detailed process on how to invite your parents to Germany from India then in this post we have shared all the details and our latest experience. This post also contains all the official links to all the relevant processes and documentation to help you with the process of how to invite your parents and family members to Germany from India.

Overall Steps – How to invite your parents to Germany from India

• Apply for invitation letter at your local Rathaus.
• Send physical copy (original) of the invitation letter to your parents.
• Book an appointment on VFS website.
• Fill up the application form and other necessary documents.
• Ask your parents to show up at VFS on the appointment date along with all the relevant details.
• Ask your parents not to spend extra money on courier tracking. 🙂 We all know its a trap.
• Wait for the visa to be delivered. 
• Go to the airport to receive your parents. 🙂

How to get the Invitation Letter?

To invite your parents or family members to Germany, you will first need to apply for an invitation letter from the city office. For us, it was the Rathaus in Munich as we are based out of Munich. The invitation letter is a mandatory document required during the visa application process. Here is the step-by-step process for obtaining the Invitation Letter.

Apply for the invitation letter online using the online form.

• Go to the city’s official website, click here
• Download this PDF ( Statement of submission of the declaration of commitment ). Fill in the details and sign it. Attach this document while submitting the form. ( Step 3)
• Go to Contact & Application , fill in all the details, attach the required documents ( your residence permit, passport ID page of your guests, and statement of submission of the declaration of commitment ) and submit the form as shown in our YT video.
• You will get an auto-generated email. The response time of the submitted query depends on the city office. During busier months, it might take up to 4 weeks to get a reply. We got the reply in less than 2 weeks.
• You will get an email with an appointment date.
• On the appointment day, you have to visit the City office (Rathaus ) with your passport and your blue card/residence permit to collect the invitation letter. 
• You have to pay the application fee which is around 29 Euros. 
• Sign and collect the invitation letter from the officer. Do ensure to check all the details before signing the letter. If there are any errors, they will correct them and give the updated one right on the spot. 

HOW TO SEND THE INVITATION LETTER?

You have to send the original invitation letter to your family/ friends . You can opt for a normal postal service that will take at least 2 – 3 weeks. Or opt for a premium delivery service. 

HOW TO BOOK AN APPOINTMENT?

• Go to – https://visa.vfsglobal.com/ind/en/deu/book-an-appointment#
• Choose your Visa Application Center, Category – Schengen Visa, and choose Subcategory -Visit family & friends from the drop-down. 

You will see the available slots.

Here’s a trick – In case you see an available slot but it does not work for you. Click on CONTINUE . Once you fill in all the details of the applicant and save. The next page will show you all the available slots for the entire month and you can choose the one that works for you. 

Note: Keep all the below details handy.

Note: You can add multiple applicants. You don’t have to book individual appointments for every applicant. 

2. Fill in all the required details and book an appointment. ( Note: You can cancel and change the appointment date  if you wish to with no extra charge )

3. Once you book an appointment, you will get an email of the application letter in a PDF format from the VFS.

4. Track the validity of your appointment.

5. VFS has recently introduced Visa at Door Service to ease the process of collection of documents and for biometrics. Do check this out if you want to opt for the service. 

Documents you need to submit at the VFS Center  

Indian citizens should submit the following list of documents when applying for a German visa:

• Application Form and declaration duly signed.
• Print of the application letter received from the VFS.
• Copy of passport’s data page (A4 size copy).
  
• Valid passport – Validity of at least three months beyond your planned stay in Germany and should have at least one blank page in order to be able to affix a visa.
• Two photos – according to the standards as set by the ICAO, not older than 6 months
• Return Ticket. – Flight bookings
• Copy of your residence permit/blue card.
• Vaccination Certificates. Download the form from the Cowin Website and print it. The barcode should be readable and can be verified. Make sure to cross-check it once before submitting it. 
• Proof of civil status: Marriage certificate, birth certificate of children, death certificate of spouse, ration card if applicable.
• Travel Health insurance for the entire duration of their stay in Germany. (Kindly refer to www.india.diplo.de/visa to find out about the travel health insurances accepted) We would highly recommend ADAC . If possible do avoid Care Insurance. We had a really bad experience with the customer support team. They are slow in responding to queries. 
• Cover Letter explaining the purpose of travel. For Minors: If travelling unaccompanied by parent(s), consent letter signed by both parents & applicant Form signed by both parents Copy of the parent(s)’ passports data page.
• Proof of Financial – If employed: Payslips of the past three months/employment contract If self-employed: Certificate of Proprietorship or other proof of ownership (proof of land title, proof of income from agriculture (sales form), etc.) Personal bank statement of the past three months with sufficient funds Income Tax Return (ITR) form or Form 17 (Certificate of Income Tax deducted at the source of salary)
  
• Proof of sufficient funds for the visit: If sponsored: Verpflichtungserklärung (formal obligation letter) of your sponsor. If self-sponsored: Personal bank statements of the past 3 months with sufficient funds.
• Employment contract
• Current bank statement, of latest 6 months (Online Bank statements are not acceptable).
• Leave permission from your employer
• Income Tax Return (ITR) form or Certificate of Income Tax deducted at the source of salary
• A copy of your business license in India
• Company bank statement of the latest 6 months
• Income Tax Return (ITR)
• Pension statement of the latest 6 months.

Note:   Please DO NOT staple any documents.

* The applicable German visa fee in Indian Rupees (₹) is as per the current exchange rate. It is subject to change without notice.

HOW TO TRACK YOUR PASSPORT?

To track your passport, go to the website ( https://visa.vfsglobal.com/ind/en/deu/book-an-appointment) 

You will find an option — Track your application

The status will be updated by the VFS staff, not by the embassy. 

PROCESSING TIME

Usually, it takes up to 15 days.  If you are based out of Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, or Kolkatta you might get it earlier.

Note: Try to keep at least 3 weeks ( 15 working days) to a 1-month gap between your appointment date and travel date to be on the safer side.  

WHAT NEXT IF YOUR GERMAN VISITOR VISA GETS REJECTED?

Do check out this link to know how to apply for remonstration. 

Refer to Official Links In case of any Confusion

• https://stadt.muenchen.de/service/info/verpflichtungserklaerung-fuer-kurzaufenthalte-bis-90-tage/1063741/
• https://visa.vfsglobal.com/ind/en/deu/book-an-appointment#
• https://www.vfsglobal.com/en/individuals/index.html
• https://visa.vfsglobal.com/ind/en/deu/
• You can also reach out to VFS for any other queries or confusion. 

DO CHECK OUT OUR YOUTUBE VIDEO

Hope this post about How to invite your parents to Germany from India was useful for you.

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February 13, 2023 at 7:35 am

Thanks for the detailed information i found it very helpful for the application of my parents

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Inviting Family and Friends To Germany [2024 Guide]

by Live in Germany Team | Bureaucracy in Germany

Last Update: Feb 24, 2024 @ 2:27 am

🚀 Meet LiGa, our cutting-edge chat bot for all things about living in Germany! 🇩🇪 Personalized and interactive, LiGa outshines traditional searches. It’s in beta phase, and your feedback will shape LiGa into the ultimate companion for your inquiries! 🤖✨ #LiveinGermany

Do you want to invite your friends, family members, or business partners to Germany? Or do you want to visit Germany for personal or business reasons? Germany is a fantastic place to visit for many people, either for education, tourism, or business. If you are from one of the EU countries, then you can simply pack your stuff and visit it whenever you want. If you are not from an EU country, you must get a German visa to visit Germany. An invitation letter is necessary to get a visitor visa in most countries; with this letter, you can invite anyone to Germany.

What Does an Invitation Letter Mean in Germany? 

An invitation letter is the document you can present while applying for a German visa. This invitation letter convinces your application powerfully and makes the process easy and quick. If one is applying for a German visa and has an invitation letter in hand, the German embassy can trust the person that he or she is not moving to Germany for any illegal activity. The invitation letter also proves that you will not stay in Germany for more than 90 days and will return to your homeland within your visa limit.

Obligation Letter

Some people call it an invitation letter while others call it a sponsorship letter. In Germany it is called verpflichtungserklärung which means obligation letter. If your friends or family members or anyone else wishes to visit Germany, they can use an obligation letter to ease their visa process and can travel to Germany without any challenge.

For more information about declaration of commitment, refer to our article (Declaration of Commitment) on our blog.

🔶   Related Topic : How to Get Verpflichtungserklärung in Germany 

Writer of The Invitation Letter

The person planning to ask someone and host the visit would write an invitation letter to get the visitor visa. Once the invitation letter is written, you should send it to your friend, family member, acquaintance, or business partner you want to invite to Germany, as they need to present the invitation letter at the German embassy while applying for the German visa. If you are going to Germany to visit your family or spouse, any of your family members or spouse should write it. If you have a lot of members to write your invitation letter to, you should ask the one who has the strongest financial background and has more years while staying in Germany. For students, universities or educational institutions will provide the invitation letter.

Visa Options

There are two basic kinds of visas;

• Tourist visa
• Visitor visa

It is highly recommended to use a visa for your close friends or relatives, otherwise, you might face some legal and financial issues in Germany. The short stay visa is only valid for 90 days within the period of 180 days. This visa is used for private visits, tourist visits, and business trips. It is also called a short stay visa or Schengen visa.

Requirements to Get A Visa

There are a few requirements to get a visa. Let us share those requirements below;

• Get an invitation letter from the immigration office of the town you are registered in.
• Get the below information of the person you are going to invite;
• Date of birth
• Place of birth
• Passport number
• Scan a copy of the first or last page of the passport number
• Your relationship with the person you wish to invite to Germany
• Filled form based on your city of residence
• Your passport
• Residence permit
• German house rent agreement (to check the flat area if it is enough to welcome and serve the guests in a good way in Germany)
• Salary slips of last 6 months (to check if you can sponsor)
• Bank statement of last 6 months
• Certificate by a tax advisor if you are self-employed
• German work contract (in some specific cases)

Kinds of An Invitation Letter

Well, the reason to have an invitation may be different for everyone. You can write it for multiple purposes. Here are the different kinds of invitation letters based on multiple reasons.

• Invitation letter for private visit
• Invitation letter for business visit
• Invitation letter for tourism
• Invitation letter for a family visit or spouse visit
• Invitation letter for medical visit
• Invitation letter for education
• Invitation letter for guest scientists or scholars
• Invitation letter for official delegations
• Invitation letter for training and internships
• Invitation letter for trade and fair exhibitions

Let us discuss each in detail.

Invitation Letter for Private Trip

There is no specific format for an invitation letter, so you can write it as you want to. Your invitation letter must have all the necessary information mentioned in it. Here is the information needed to write an invitation letter for a personal or private trip.

• Your personal information, like your name and your complete address
• Your contact information, like phone number and email address
• Your identity card number
• Your resident permit number
• Information of the person you want to invite; full name, address, date of birth, and passport number.
• Proof of your relationship with the person you are inviting.
• Purpose of your trip; to attend any event like a birthday, wedding, general meetup, or tourist visit.
• Describe the kind of your friendship or kinship
• The duration of your relationship with the person you plan to invite.
• Time frame and scheduled course
• Date and location
• Your signatures

Evidence of Your Relationship with The Visitor

As we mentioned, you need to provide evidence of your relationship. It is necessary for your invitation letter. Proof of your relationship can be in the form of the below documents;

• Marriage certificate
• Birth certificate
• Proof of previous notes
• Any document of a previous meeting
• Proof in the form of an email

Invitation Letter for A Business Trip

As Germany is well developed, people find multiple business options here. To visit Germany, it is necessary for you that a person working in a German company for example; manager or director invites you. Reasons to visit Germany for business might be different such as visiting to sign an agreement, to start a business venture, to discuss the business plan, or so on. If you need to write an invitation letter for a business trip, it should have the following information;

• Your personal information like full name and address
• Your contact information like phone number and email address
• If you invite an employee, a letter from the employee's employer is necessary. The employer should mention the reason and duration of the visit in this letter.
• Purpose, reason, and objective behind the business visit.
• Period and planned course of the visit (business meetings, office visits, factory visits, business discussions, or receptions)
• Proof of business relationship such as; contract, agreement, or business emails
• Address of the hotel where the invited person will stay during his or her visit
• An official company letterhead
• Stamp of the company
• Signature of the managing director

Invitation Letter for Tourism

Germany is a place full of tourist attractions for the tour lovers so people visit it for tourism. Germany has many locations and events to attract visitors. If you are one who wants to visit Germany for tourism, your invitation letter can help you to get a visitor visa for your tour to Germany. If you have any relationships in Germany, your friend, family, or business person, who is willing to write an invitation letter for you, it is a great option to get one invitation letter from that person. The information needed to be mentioned in your invitation letter is almost the same as you have read earlier for the invitation letter for a personal or private visit to Germany. One additional piece of information that you should mention in your invitation letter, is the information related to the tourist places, attractions, or locations you want to visit and see together.

Invitation Letter for A Family Visit or Spouse Visit

This is the most basic reason why people usually have an invitation letter. Most of the people working or living in Germany try to call their spouses or family members to visit them. The German embassy may feel that you will stay in Germany permanently so they can avoid giving you a visa easily. If you have an invitation letter, it can make sure that you would not overstay in Germany. Basic information is the same as other kinds of letters. Additionally you should write the activities you are going to do together during your stay in Germany and also describe the dates of the stay in Germany. If the person inviting you does not share the last name, then he or she must provide other documents to prove that you are related to him or her.

Invitation Letter for Medical Visit

Germany is a popular country for good hospitals, doctors, and medical facilities. They are good to treat many health issues as compared to many other countries. If you or someone in your family needs medical attention from a German hospital or a German doctor, you must have an invitation letter to make your visit happen easily. For a medical visit, you must have an invitation letter from a doctor or hospital you are planning to visit in Germany. They must mention the following information in the invitation letter.

• Kind of medical issue the patient has.
• The required treatment.
• Duration of the treatment.
• Details of medical tests if required.
• Description of required check ups and frequency of hospital visits during stay in Germany.
• Dates of the visit

Keep in mind that the German embassy does not offer visas to those patients who have treatment for an indefinite period, so your treatment must have a specific duration.

Invitation Letter for Education

Being a student, you may want to visit Germany for your college or higher level studies. If so, you need to get an invitation letter from a German educational institution or a German university. A professor or head of your department in a selected German university will write an invitation for you. The professor or head of the department may write an invitation letter while mentioning the below details;

• Reason of visit
• Field of study
• Dates of study visit
• Duration of the degree
• Admission letter or a scholarship letter

Invitation Letter for Guest Scientists, or Scholars

As a scholar or scientist, you might plan to visit a German university or a German research center. They can also invite you to deliver a lecture in a seminar or a conference to the young students, scientists, researchers, or scholars. You may also be invited to give a presentation or to contribute to some latest research. Whatever the reason could be, your host institute, university, or a research center should write an invitation letter for you so you may apply for a German visa easily. Your invitation letter should contain information as given below;

• Dates of your visit to the research center
• Reasons that they choose you as a scholar or scientist
• Activities you will do during your visit together

Invitation Letter for Official Delegations

Being the representative of the government or an organization, you might plan an official visit to Germany. Delegates will get an invitation letter from the organization where they will visit in Germany. The letter must explain below points;

• Relationship with the organization in Germany
• Discuss policies if any
• Mention the workshop if any plan to attend
• Explain how the events will be funded
• Dates and duration of the visit

Invitation Letter for Training and Internships

Here is another reason to visit Germany. People might plan to visit Germany for training or to do some kind of internship. If so, you need your invitation letter from the training institute or company. Your trainer or supervisor must write an invitation letter for you while stating these things in your invitation letter.

• Duties and responsibilities during internship
• Dates of training or internship 
• Topic of the training
• Module covered in the training workshop
• Field of job during internship 
• Acceptance letter for training or internship
• Information of the person who will cover the expenses

Invitation Letter for Trade and Fair Exhibitions

Last but not least, you might visit Germany to attend a trade or fair exhibition and the organization organizing the trade and fair exhibition will send you an invitation letter. Writer should address the letter directly to the person whom the invitation is to send. The invitation letter must have;

• Dates of the exhibition
• Your full name
• Name of the company you are working in or organization details you belongs to

Process to Apply for A Visitor Visa

The process is simple if you read and follow carefully. A step-by-step guide is given here to explain the process of applying for a visitor visa. Let us read it carefully;

• First, the person visiting Germany should have a valid passport. If he or she does not have it, apply immediately.
• Visit your KVR office to get the invitation letter.
• Send this letter to the person you want to invite to Germany.
• Get health insurance.
• Book air tickets.
• Check the list of documents.
• Check the requirements for a photograph.
• Get a visa from the German embassy.

Format of An Invitation Letter

The letter of invitation is a bit complicated but can be easy if you know how to write it and what to mention in it. If you have read this article in detail, you know everything which is necessary to add in your invitation letter. Now, you need to learn how to write this information in your invitation letter. Take a deep breath and start writing it, you will find it super easy. Once you complete writing your invitation letter, it must be signed by the person in Germany who is planning to invite you to Germany. Your invitation letter should be in a formal language to address the situation in a concise way. Letter is to address the formal institution that is the German embassy. The format of the German invitation letter should include the below information in general;

• Name of embassy
• Address and phone number of embassy
• Name of the applicant
• Passport number of the applicant
• Country of residence where applicant lives
• Address and phone number of the applicant
• Name and contact details of the person inviting applicant to Germany
• Dates and duration of the Germany visit 
• Reason of the visit
• Evidence of the relationship between applicant and the person inviting the applicant
• Final remarks
• Signatures of the person inviting someone to Germany

Final Thoughts

So, this is all about an invitation letter to invite your loved ones to Germany. Whatever the purpose is, check the format and required documents carefully so you may get your invitation letter easily and your application process goes smoothly. All the best in your application process and have a good time with the visitors in Germany. Cheers!

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Essential Guidelines: How to Apply for a Germany Tourist Visa

Last Update: 09-02-2024

Aditya Jain

⚡Quick Summary

Germany tourist visa for indians.

Do Indian Citizens Need a Visa to Visit Germany?

Yes, Indian citizens typically need a Schengen visa to visit Germany for tourism. The German visa is stamped on your passport and allows you to stay in Germany for 90 days or more depending on the visa type you have applied for.

Table of Contents

Introduction, when should i apply for a germany schengen visa, types of germany visas for indians, how to apply for a germany visa for indians, germany tourist visa requirements for indians, what is the germany tourist visa processing time for indians.

Fees For Germany Visa From India

What is the Validity of a Germany Tourist Visa for Indians?

How to check the status of a germany visa application for indians, do i need a germany airport transit visa as an indian, what are the reasons for germany visa rejection in india, what to do if my germany tourist visa gets rejected, do indian citizens need travel insurance for a germany visa, what to do after reaching germany airport.

Exploring the vibrant culture of Germany requires careful planning, and obtaining a tourist visa is a key step for Indian travellers. Our guide simplifies the process, covering essential details such as Germany tourist visa requirements, application procedures through Teleport or VFS Global, and necessary documents.

Whether you're applying for a short-stay, or long-stay visa, we break down the steps for a hassle-free experience. If you have questions or need assistance, our dedicated team is ready to help.

Contact us at +91 73148 52914 or reach us on WhatsApp . 

Prepare for a smooth journey to Germany – Safe Travels!✈️

Can Indians Get a Germany Visa on Arrival?

Germany does not offer visas on arrival for Indian citizens. To visit Germany, Indian citizens must apply for and obtain a visa in advance through a pre-approval process.

Applying for a Schengen Visa at a Germany Diplomatic Mission:

• Single Country Visit: Apply at the German consulate if you're visiting only Germany as your single Schengen country and it's your first entry point.
• Visiting Multiple Countries: If visiting several Schengen countries consider applying for a Germany visa if you intend to spend the maximum duration of your trip in Germany. If visiting several Schengen countries with a similar number of days at each one (e.g., tourism in France, Germany, and Switzerland), apply at the consulate of your first entry country—Germany, in this case.
• Main Purpose of Visit: Your main purpose determines where you apply. If it's unclear and you're visiting multiple countries, submit your application to the embassy or consulate of your first entry point to the Schengen area. Example: For instance, if your main purpose is attending a conference in Germany while touring multiple countries, apply at the German consulate.

Teleport’s Expert Tip

For a hassle-free processing experience, it's recommended to begin your application at least 45 working days before your planned departure. It's wise to start the process well in advance but no more than 6 months before your intended entry into the Schengen states to avoid any issues with your travel dates.

Schengen visa: If your stay in Germany is up to 90 days, apply for a Schengen visa, often called "short-term visas". Issued as a "C" visa for various purposes including tourism, medical treatment, business, culture, sports, visits, official or political matters, study, internship, scientific research, employment, seasonal employment, training, and more.

National Visa: If your intended stay in Germany exceeds 90 days, apply for a German National visa, commonly known as "long-term visas" or "D visas. The national visa is designed for individuals planning a long-term stay in Germany, exceeding 90 days, for a specific legally-defined purpose. Typically, it is granted for a specified duration, which may extend up to one year in certain situations. After arriving in Germany, you will need to apply for a residence permit, which corresponds to the purpose of your stay.

Work Visa: This visa enables skilled foreign individuals with vocational training or a recognized university degree to visit Germany for a maximum of six months. During this period, they can search for employment matching their qualifications. If successful in securing a job within six months, there's no need to leave; they can apply for the necessary residence permit at the Immigration Office. While actively seeking employment, individuals are restricted from regular employment, except for a trial period of up to 10 hours per week.

Student Visa: If accepted by a German university (including a preparatory language course) or a preparatory college (Studienkolleg), you can apply for a study visa in Germany. It's advisable to secure admission from the university at the earliest. While studying, you can take up part-time student jobs, allowing you to work for up to 20 hours per week to support your expenses.

Research Visa: For researchers from non-EU countries, the following criteria apply:

• Hold a doctoral degree or possess a relevant degree from a German or foreign university granting access to doctoral programs.
• Be selected by a research institution and granted entry into a Member State.
• Engage in a research activity typically requiring such an advanced degree.

This category also includes doctoral students enrolled at a foreign university who wish to visit Germany for research purposes.

Family Reunion Visa: You need this visa, specifically a residence permit, in the following cases:

• If you're marrying or planning to marry a German citizen.
• If you're a parent of a German minor child and seeking permanent residency in Germany.

After submitting all required documents, your application goes to the Immigration Office at your intended residence in Germany. Processing usually takes up to 12 weeks, but additional documents can affect this time. Once approved, the Embassy/Consulate issues a national visa for the first 90 days. The Immigration Office grants a final residence permit upon arrival for a more extended stay. The family reunion visa also provides entitlement.

Airport Transit Visa: If you stay within the international airport during your layover in Germany and your final destination is not in a Schengen country, you won't need a transit visa.

But, if you have to go into the Schengen area for any reason, like changing terminals or if your destination is in a Schengen country, you might need a visa. Be sure to plan for this situation.

There are, however, exceptions to this requirement:

• Individuals holding valid visas and national residence permits from EU and Schengen countries.
• Individuals with certain national residence permits from specific countries, including Andorra, Japan, Canada, San Marino, and the United States of America.
• Those who hold valid visas from the EEA countries (the EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland), as well as visas issued by Japan, Canada, and the United States of America.

Apply for Germany Visa with Teleport

Getting your Germany visa for Indians is now easy and hassle-free with Teleport. Follow these simple steps for a smooth tourist visa application:

• Step 1: Start Your Application: Go to Teleport's Germany Application website and click on ‘Start your Application ’.
• Step 2: Fill in your details and Pay: Enter your travel and passport details, and make your visa payment through Teleport. Choose either full or partial upfront payment.
• Step 3: Prepare and Review Documents: Submit your documents to Teleport. Teleport’s relationship manager will carefully review and organize all the necessary documents for your Germany visa application.
• Step 4: Appointment Booking: Teleport's dedicated relationship manager will set up an appointment for you at the VFS Appointment Centre as per your preferred location and timings.
• Step 5: Visit the VFS Centre: Attend your appointed slot at the nearby VFS Visa Application Centre. There, you'll submit biometrics and the required documents.

The documents are sent from VFS to the consulate for review. Once the consulate makes a decision, they send the documents back to VFS. 

Afterward, you can choose to have your passport delivered to your location or pick it up in person from the VFS visa centre. 

✅ Teleport’s relationship manager is ready to assist you throughout the entire process for comprehensive support.

Apply at VFS Global Application Centre in India for a Germany Visa

Step 1: Determine Your Visa Type

Start by identifying the appropriate visa type for your trip to Germany and ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements. Familiarise yourself with the necessary documents, estimated processing times, and relevant fees.  

Step 2: Prepare Documents

Collect the required documents for your visa application, which vary based on your visa category. Ensure that any photos meet biometric requirements. You can usually get these photos at Visa Application Centres, among other places.

Step 3: Fill out Application Form a. Fill out the online application form , print it, sign it, and gather other necessary documents. b. Use the VIDEX format for the online application form. A high-quality printout of the barcode is essential. c. If you can't complete the online form, you can print it and fill it out by hand. d. If your fingerprints have been collected for a Schengen visa application in India within the last 59 months, you can authorise someone to submit your application. Use the provided authorization letter for the travel agent or representative.

Step 4: Schedule Appointment Book an appointment for submitting your visa application and for biometric data collection, which includes fingerprinting and a photograph. Upon booking, you will receive a confirmation email containing your appointment letter.

Choose the Right Visa Application Centre Based on your Location

Step 5: Pay Your Fees

Once you have made your application, you will need to pay your visa application fee. If you download the application form, print it and bring it to the Visa Application Centre where payment can be made at the time of your appointment. Fees can be paid in cash or by card (Visa, Rupay and Mastercard are acceptable)

Step 6: Visit the Visa Application Centre

For Schengen visa (short-term visa) processing at the German Consulate Mumbai, you have the flexibility to book appointments and submit your Schengen visa applications at any Visa Application Centre operated by VFS Global across India , irrespective of your place of residence.

Please remember to ensure that you bring your visa application form and the necessary documents as outlined in the Germany tourist visa checklist for your specific visa category.

You must personally submit your fully completed visa application form and documents at one of the designated Visa Application Centres, unless otherwise instructed.

Step 7: Track Your Application

If you submitted your application at a VFS Visa Application Centre, you can use the VFS online application tracking tool to check the status of your application. Simply provide the following details:

• The reference number issued to you while making the payment at the VFS centre.
• Your date of birth.

Step 8: Collect Your Visa

After your visa application has been processed, you have the option to get your documents and passport from the Visa Application Centre. Alternatively, you can opt for a courier service, which involves an additional fee.

Note: Collection of documents or passports by third parties is generally not allowed, with some exceptions:

• Immediate family members (parents, children, siblings).
• One member collecting on behalf of the entire group.
• Persons collecting on behalf of government officials, if duly authorised on official government letterhead.
• Representatives of companies must provide an authorization letter on company letterhead along with an official ID card.

Teleport’ s Expert Tip

If you've had a Germany visa in the past 5 years, you can have someone else submit the application on your behalf, as biometrics are not required in this case.

Mandatory Documents

For a smoother Germany visa application, make sure your bank statement is signed and stamped by your bank, and has a minimum balance of INR 3,00,000.

Supporting Documents

Photograph requirements and specifications for germany visa application.

Photo requirements for a Germany visa as an Indian citizen includes:

Recent Photo: Your visa photo must be no older than 6 months.

Size and Dimensions: Your visa photo should measure 35mm x 45mm (width x height) with a 70 to 80% face coverage.

Head Position: Ensure your head is fully visible and centred in the photo.

Eyeglasses and Headgear: If wearing eyeglasses, no glare should obscure your eyes. Religious headgear is allowed, but your entire face (from chin to forehead, including cheeks and ears) must be fully visible.

Quality: The photo should be in colour, high-resolution, and well-lit, with no shadows, red-eye, or reflections.

Ensure that the photo in your passport matches the one you submitted with your application. To avoid rejection, include a new photo that meets the specifications. If your visa is rejected, provide a new photo to prevent rejection again.

Germany tourist visa processing time is 15 to 21 working days after your appointment at the visa application centre is completed.

Both Germany tourist and business visas let you stay in Germany for 90 days within a 180-days time frame.

The actual validity may vary, as it is subject to the discretion of the embassy. While they can issue it for up to 6 months (180 days), it's not guaranteed in every case.

Track Your Germany Visa Application Using Teleport

Stay informed about the status of your Germany visa application with Teleport. If you've applied through Teleport, receive real-time updates via WhatsApp, email, or directly on the Teleport Dashboard. To check your application status:

• Log in to the Teleport Dashboard.
• Navigate to 'Your Applications.'
• Click on your submitted application for the current status.

Track Germany Visa Application Via VFS

Alternatively, you can track your Germany visa application status through VFS Global:

• Visit the VFS online application tracking tool.
• Choose the country where you submitted your application.
• Enter the application reference number provided during payment at the VFS centre.
• Provide your last name.

Indian nationals, in general, are not granted transit privileges and thus need to obtain an airport transit visa (Category A) for transiting through a German airport.

• Those in possession of valid visas from the EEA countries (the EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland).
• Incomplete Documentation: Ensure you submit all required documents, as missing any may result in rejection.
• Providing False Information: Giving inaccurate details can not only lead to rejection but also result in future bans on visa applications.
• Insufficient Financial Evidence: It's crucial to demonstrate adequate funds (at least EUR 65 per day per person) to cover your expenses during the stay.
• Unexplained Sources of Income: Providing clear and transparent information about your income sources is vital to avoid raising suspicions .
• Limited Travel History: Past instances of overstaying visas, especially in Schengen countries, may have a negative impact on your application.
• Suspicion of Fraudulent Intent: Failing to clearly explain the purpose of your visit can make officials suspicious.
• Criminal Record: A history of criminal activities or involvement in illegal actions can lead to visa rejection.

Teleport Expert's Tip

Lots of visa rejections occur due to financial problems, such as issues with bank statements and tax returns. Make sure you show enough evidence of your finances, aiming for a minimum bank balance of INR 3,00,000 per applicant.

After receiving an official visa rejection letter, the applicant has three options:

• The applicant can reapply for a Germany visa.
• Request a re-assessment of the visa application through a process called remonstration. This is a free procedure, and a signed remonstration letter must be submitted to the relevant mission /consulate within one month of receiving the rejection.
• The applicant also has the option to file a lawsuit against the refusal, which will lead to a re-assessment of the application by the administrative court in Berlin.

Consider reapplying instead of appealing, as the appeal process tends to take longer with no guaranteed timeline.

Yes, when applying for a Germany visa, it is mandatory to have minimum travel insurance coverage of 30,000 Euros. It's strongly advisable for travellers to consider acquiring health insurance coverage from reputable providers such as Tata AIG, Digit Insurance, HDFC Ergo, and others.

When arriving at a German airport, it's essential to follow these steps to ensure a seamless and trouble-free exit:

• Prepare Your Travel Documents: Have your passport, valid Germany sticker visa, return ticket, and hotel bookings ready for quick verification by immigration authorities. This will expedite the arrival process and help you navigate through smoothly.
• Unaccompanied Minor Guidelines: If you are travelling as an unaccompanied minor, it's crucial to stay close to your designated flight attendant for safety. Identify your assigned adult at the destination airport to ensure a secure and well-coordinated arrival experience.
• Understand Germany’s Regulations: Familiarise yourself with Germany's customs regulations. If you have items to declare or require baggage inspection, proceed to the customs area. Being aware of the Customs Regulations at German airports will help you navigate these processes smoothly and avoid any complications during your arrival.

In conclusion, using the information provided in this guide, obtaining a Germany visa can be a straightforward process. Ensure you fulfil the specific requirements for your travel purpose, and get ready to explore Germany's rich culture and breathtaking landscapes.

Wishing you safe travels and an enjoyable journey in Germany!

For a smooth Germany visa application experience, consider applying with Teleport. Our user-friendly platform simplifies the application process, ensuring your submission meets all necessary criteria.

If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to contact us. Our dedicated team is prepared to offer guidance and support. You can reach us at +91 73148 52914 or contact us on WhatsApp .

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Bringing Parents To Germany, A Complete Guide

May 24, 2020

This Article was Reviewed by The Chief Editor, Godfrey

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Bringing Parents To Germany, A Complete Guide

There are many reasons why Nigerians living abroad want their loved ones to come to stay with them. Living away from family generally is a difficult choice to make for many. And for some Nigerians, it’s not a choice at all. Many have in their quest for a better life migrated to Germany, either permanently or temporarily.

These Nigerians live daily with feelings of worry and guilt, aware that their loved ones may not be getting the best of attention and care.

There are basically three ways to get your parents into Germany, and they shall be discussed broadly:

Guide on Bringing parents to Germany

• Family reunion visa/dependent visa:

Countries in Europe , including Germany, allow residents to bring their spouses and children to live with them. But, bringing parents to Germany is a different kettle of fish entirely.

It’s much easier if the parent is joining a minor who’s legally living in Germany, and the parent possesses the right to care and custody of the child. To bring in your spouse or children, you just need a dependent visa or a German family reunion visa from the German embassy.

But, you can’t bring in your parents on a dependent visa, as they are not considered dependent in the real sense of it. German law does not honor the notion that children support their parents in person.

Even though parents are not part of those whom the family reunion visa is made for, there are strict exemptions that can present a window to bring them into Germany. However, this isn’t easy and might require an experienced immigration lawyer or consultant to help with the process.

To bring your parents into Germany, the embassy will first require proof that “unavoidable hardship” will be prevented. For example, you will be required to prove that living conditions are unexceptionally hard for them in Nigeria, showing their medical report, if they have severe health conditions.

In this case, the Alien’s Department has to use their discretion, margin of judgment, as to whether they concur to the reunification of families, which they rarely use. Furthermore, for this waiver to be granted, other conditions must be in place such as:

• You must be able to get private health insurance for the visiting parent(s).
• You must show proof of financial resources to cater for an added dependent.
• It would be best if you had the right apartment to accommodate yourself and any joining relative.

As previously stated, this waiver is rarely used. German society does not know and does not want to introduce the way families live together in other parts of the world. The social benefits system of over 200 years has almost eclipsed the family support system.

 It must be emphasized that it is only if and when this waiver is granted that other requirements and processes in the family reunification visa can be followed.

• Tourist and visitor visa :

If you intend for your parents to spend some time with you, the tourist visa remains the most relaxed and best approach. It’s also called a Schengen tourism visa as it gives you access to 26 other Schengen member countries. With a tourist visa, your parents will not be permitted to work or study.

The tourist visa or short-stay visa can be valid for 90 days within a 180 day period in Germany and the entire Schengen area. To make the process as simple as possible, you might need to send an invitation letter, which should include the address in Germany, the period of stay, and contact details of the host.

A letter of sponsorship also called the Declaration of Commitment, should also accompany the application process. You can start the online application  here.

• Investor visa:

This is available to the very rich and wealthy. It is a perfectly legal approach where you invest in the country, and you are allowed to move into the country.

Although, Germany does not officially offer a citizen by investment (CBI) program like most western countries, its investor visa program recognizes the substantial investment in real estate or other businesses with the capacity to create jobs. In return, the investor is granted a temporary visa, which can lead to permanent residency after three years, and remaining family members can get a residency permit after five years.   

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About the Chief Editor

Godfrey Ogbo, the Chief Editor and CEO of AtlanticRide , merges his environmental management expertise with extensive business experience, including in real estate. With a master's degree and a knack for engaging writing, he adeptly covers complex growth and business topics. His analytical approach and business insights enrich the blog, making it a go-to source for readers seeking thoughtful and informed content.

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I raised my son in Germany until he was 6. Now, we're back in the US, and my family is going through reverse culture shock.

• Liz Humphreys moved to Europe with her husband and raised her son in Berlin until he was 6.
• When she moved back to New York, she was surprised by all of the rules surrounding kids.
• She's found advantages to raising children in both cities.

My three-year-old son was busy flattening his piece of clay into a pancake when another ball of clay came flying through the air. It hit him squarely on the back of the head, and he started to cry. My husband and I were sitting nearby at his weekly art class, held in a high-ceilinged, 20th-century building in Prenzlauer Berg, a trendy neighborhood in Berlin .

We turned to see a toddler continuing to throw clay balls. The child's mom was sitting next to her son, not saying anything and simply letting him continue his aggressive antics. I tried to catch her eye, but she refused to make contact. We quietly approached the instructor to ask whether she might step in — as perhaps she wouldn't want clay thrown at other kids in her classroom, after all — but she said resignedly, "That's not my place."

Since my family of three had arrived in Berlin , I had experienced many of these refusals by German parents and other adults to get involved or to correct bad behavior in their children — in playgrounds, on playdates, and on museum visits.

I found that the Berlin attitude around children was, by and large, to let them resolve things among themselves — even for toddlers.

My family has been back in New York City for a year and a half, and we're still struck by all the "rules" surrounding kids here. Not that all these rules are bad. As my now 8-year-old son's second-grade teacher says, "How will kids learn what not to do if we don't teach them?"

Berlin was affordable for raising a family and had great childcare

In 2012, my husband and I moved to Europe from New York City for work. We started in Amsterdam, moved to London — where my son was born — and relocated to Berlin when he was just over a year old. We didn't speak German and had never considered living in Germany.

Right from the get-go, we were amazed by how much further our money went in Berlin. Though rental inventory was tough to come by, we paid $2,900 a month for a three-bed, two-bath duplex with a private roof deck and elevator — a wonderful amount of space to raise a child. That's half the price we're now paying for our much smaller two-bedroom apartment in Manhattan .

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We were also impressed by the affordability of Berlin's childcare. Starting from the age of 1, all kids are entitled to a free day care/preschool combo — called Kita or kindergarten — for a minimum of five to seven hours a day. Working parents, those looking for work or studying, or single parents are eligible for even more: seven to nine hours of daily care. The care is available year-round.

My son was supervised by three teachers and with the same 10 kids every year, which allowed him to make close friends. His school was also bilingual, German and English, so he became fluent in German within a few years, even though we didn't speak it at home.

Also, unlike in most of the US, in Germany, school up until the equivalent of first grade is play-based and very child-driven, with lots of time spent outside.

The public school in New York has been a huge change

When we arrived back in New York, my son started first grade in public school. He was quickly overwhelmed by the more anonymous classroom of about 30 students with one teacher. He also had difficulty adjusting to all of the structure around the school day. He was used to spending more time outdoors and wandering around the classroom as he pleased.

My husband and I were also shocked to learn that school ended at 2:35 p.m. Now in order to work a full day, we have to pay for after-school classes and find options for summer camp.

We also didn't worry much about safety in Berlin. For such a large city, Berlin is exceedingly safe. In the 2024 Safety Index by Global Residence Index , Berlin ranked 46, while New York City was 107. Over there, it's not uncommon to see kids walking on their own to school starting in first or second grade. Back in the US, we would never even think about letting our son take the short walk to school without adult supervision.

There have been positives of being back in New York

Though the reverse culture shock is real, we do still love being back in New York. We appreciate the diversity compared with Germany, both ethnic and socio-economic.

We take advantage of the numerous cultural opportunities for both kids and adults, such as museums and theater. And even though there aren't quite as many playgrounds as in Berlin, we enjoy the welcoming vibe, where it's easy for kids to make friends.

I've also noticed more parents taking ownership of unruly children.

Got a personal essay about relocating a family that you want to share? Get in touch with the editor: [email protected] .

Watch: Why childcare has become so unaffordable

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