Can I, as a foreigner, start a family in Germany and bring my spouse afterwards?
December 23, 2022 | 40,00 EUR | answered by Leonie Eiserfelder
Dear Lawyer,
My name is Christian Schenkenberg and I am a foreigner living in Germany. For some time now, I have been in a relationship with my partner and we would like to start a family. However, my partner is still living abroad and we are wondering if it is possible for me, as a foreigner, to bring my spouse to Germany to start a family here.
Currently, we find ourselves in a situation where we are unsure of the steps we need to take to realize our dream of a future together in Germany. We are concerned that there may be legal hurdles that could make it difficult for us to live together and start a family.
Could you please explain to us what options exist for me, as a foreigner, to bring my spouse to Germany so that we can start a family together here? Are there special visa or residency regulations that we need to be aware of? What requirements need to be met for my partner to come to Germany with me?
We would greatly appreciate your support and guidance on this matter, as it is of great importance to us to fulfill our shared desire for a family.
Thank you in advance for your help.
Sincerely,
Christian Schenkenberg
Dear Mr. Schenkenberg,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding the possibility of bringing your spouse to Germany to start a family together. I understand that this is an important step for both of you and would like to assist you by providing you with relevant information on immigration law related to family reunification.
In Germany, there is a possibility for foreigners living here to bring their spouse or family to join them through family reunification, as regulated in § 29 of the Residence Act. To meet the requirements for family reunification, certain criteria must be fulfilled.
Some of the key requirements include:
1. You must have a valid residence permit in Germany.
2. Your spouse must be able to demonstrate the necessary language skills and sufficient financial means to support themselves in Germany.
3. There must be no impediments to marriage, such as a prohibition on marriage or existing marriages with other individuals.
4. Your spouse must meet the health requirements for entering Germany.
It is important to note that the exact requirements may vary depending on individual circumstances, and it is advisable to seek advice from an experienced immigration lawyer to ensure that all necessary documents and formalities are processed correctly.
In your case, it may be beneficial to contact the relevant immigration authorities early on to inquire about the specific requirements for family reunification. Furthermore, it may be helpful to apply for a family reunification visa to facilitate your spouse's entry into Germany.
I hope that this information is helpful to you and I am available to assist you further in clarifying any questions or supporting you in the implementation of family reunification.
Best regards,
Leonie Eiserfelder
Immigration Lawyer
