Eligibility Quiz
Documents Required
All documents must be submitted in original plus 2 copies unless otherwise noted. Documents not in German or English must be certified translated into German. Foreign documents typically require apostille (for Hague Convention countries) or legalization (for non-Hague Convention countries).
Identity and Civil Documents
- Valid passport — issued within the last 10 years, valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay, containing at least 2 blank pages, signed and in good condition
- Biometric passport photos — two recent photos (35mm × 45mm) meeting Schengen standards: high resolution, neutral expression, light background, no headwear except religious, no shadows
- Marriage certificate (for spouses) — original with apostille/legalization and certified German translation
- Birth certificate (for children) — original with apostille/legalization and certified German translation
- Proof of custody (if only one parent is in Germany) — written consent from the other parent with custody rights, or court order establishing sole custody
Sponsor's Documentation
- Sponsor's passport or ID — data page copy showing identity and nationality
- Sponsor's residence permit or citizenship certificate — copy of valid permit or German/EU passport
- Sponsor's registration certificate (Meldebescheinigung) — proof of current residence in Germany, not older than 6 months
- Sponsor's rental agreement or proof of housing — lease, property deed, or booking confirmation; must show full address and confirm adequate space (12 m² per person minimum, unless exempted)
Financial Documentation
- Sponsor's employment contract — copy showing position, salary, and employment terms
- Recent payslips — typically last 3 months, showing net income
- Bank statements — 3–6 months of statements showing regular income and financial stability
- Tax returns or income declaration — if self-employed
- Supporting letter from sponsor — informal declaration on how livelihood will be secured in Germany and commitment to support the joining family member
Health Insurance
- Proof of health insurance coverage — valid policy with minimum €30,000 emergency coverage for the first 90 days of stay in Germany
- Letter from health insurance company — confirming that the joining family member will be included in family insurance upon entry, or proof of travel health insurance
Language Proficiency (Spouses Only)
- A1-level German language certificate — from accredited institution (Goethe-Institut certificates are most widely accepted; other institutions must meet ALTE standards)
- Accepted certificates include: Goethe-Institut "Deutsch 1," ÖSD (Austrian Language Diploma), TestDaF, or equivalent
Application Forms
- Completed national visa application form (VIDEX) — printed and signed; can be filled online via the Consular Services Portal or downloaded as PDF
- Declaration of Accuracy of Information — signed declaration confirming truthfulness of application
- Residence Permit Application Form — supplementary form for residence permit processing
Additional Documents (if applicable)
- Police clearance certificate — from applicant's home country for the last 5 years, with apostille/legalization and German translation (required by some embassies, particularly for applicants from India, China, and other countries with higher security screening)
- Proof of previous marriages — divorce decrees, death certificates, or annulment documents if applicable
- Proof of relationship authenticity — photos together, chat messages, travel records, joint property documents (increasingly requested to verify genuine relationship)