How to Obtain a Free Spousal Visa in Germany for Foreigners in 2025

Planning to join your spouse in Germany? You’re not the only one. Every year, thousands of people apply for a spousal visa to live legally with their partner in Germany. But before you pack your bags, you’ll need to understand how the process works—and what you must do to qualify.

The rules are clear, but many applicants get confused because of inconsistent information or missing documents. The requirements remain strict, but if you’re well-prepared, your chances are strong.

This guide will walk you through each step clearly: what documents you need, who can apply, what German authorities are looking for, and how to avoid common mistakes that could delay or ruin your application. If your goal is to reunite with your spouse and start a stable life together in Germany, this is what you need to know—explained simply.

What is the German Spouse Visa?

The German Spouse Visa (also known as a family reunification visa) allows a foreign national to live in Germany with their legally married partner who is already living there. This visa is for people who are married to a German citizen or to someone who holds a valid residence permit in Germany, including EU Blue Card holders, students, and skilled workers.

It’s not just a visit—it gives you the right to live in Germany long-term and, in most cases, work and study freely once you arrive. After a few years of legal residence, you can also apply for permanent residency if you meet the requirements.

Who can apply for a German Spousal Visa?

You can apply if:

• You are married to a German citizen or legal resident (same-sex and opposite-sex marriages are accepted)

• Your spouse lives in Germany and holds either German citizenship or a valid residence permit

• You both plan to live together in Germany

• You meet the basic requirements, including financial stability and basic German language skills

The spouse in Germany must have stable housing, income, and valid health insurance. If they don’t meet these, your visa could be refused—even if your marriage is genuine.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a Spouse Visa in Germany

Step 1: Book an Appointment at the German Embassy or Consulate

You must apply from your home country before entering Germany. Go to the website of the German embassy or consulate in your country and book an appointment for a long-term visa. These slots can fill up fast, so do this early.

Step 2: Prepare Your Documents

This is the most important part. You’ll need to show:

• Valid passport

• Marriage certificate (official and translated into German by a certified translator)

• Proof of residence of your spouse in Germany (rental agreement or registration certificate)

• Proof of income and employment from your spouse (work contract, salary slips, or tax returns)

• Health insurance coverage that will apply in Germany

• Basic German language certificate (A1 level)—unless you’re exempt (more on this below)

• Passport photos that meet biometric standards

• Completed application form and signed declaration

Always check with your local embassy’s website because requirements may vary slightly depending on your country of residence.

Step 3: Prove Basic German Language Skills

One key requirement is proving that you can speak basic German (A1 level). This means being able to introduce yourself, understand simple sentences, and manage basic conversations. You’ll need to take a test from a recognised language institute like Goethe-Institut or telc and submit the certificate with your application.

You can be exempt from this rule if:

• Your spouse is an EU Blue Card holder or researcher

• You’re a US, Canadian, Australian, Israeli, Japanese, or South Korean citizen

• You’re physically or mentally unable to learn a language (needs medical proof)

• You already hold a university degree taught in German

Step 4: Attend Your Appointment and Submit Biometrics

On the day of your appointment, bring all your original documents and copies. You’ll be interviewed and asked about your relationship, living plans, and background. The embassy will also collect your biometrics (photo and fingerprints).

Step 5: Wait for Approval

Processing times vary, but in most cases, you’ll wait between 6 to 12 weeks. During this time, the German immigration office (Ausländerbehörde) may contact your spouse to confirm your marriage and living situation. If all checks are successful, the embassy will issue your visa.

Once approved, you’ll get a visa sticker in your passport, usually valid for 90 days. After arriving in Germany, you’ll apply for your residence permit at the local immigration office.

What Happens After You Arrive in Germany?

Once you land in Germany, your first task is to register your address (Anmeldung) at your local Bürgeramt (citizen’s office). After that, you’ll make an appointment with the Ausländerbehörde to convert your entry visa into a residence permit. This permit is usually valid for one to three years and can be extended.

In most cases, you’ll be allowed to work without restrictions. That means you can take a full-time job, freelance, or start your own business. If your visa has work restrictions, check with the immigration office for options to lift them.

After living in Germany legally for a few years (usually five), you can apply for permanent residency. If your spouse is a German citizen, you may qualify even sooner. Later, you may also become eligible to apply for German citizenship—if you meet all legal conditions.

Mistakes to Avoid

Many applicants delay or lose their chance by making avoidable mistakes. Here are the most common ones:

• Submitting incomplete or incorrect documents

• Failing to get a certified German translation of marriage papers

• Assuming your country is exempt from language tests without checking

• Not booking the visa appointment early enough

• Using expired or invalid language certificates

• Ignoring financial requirements of your spouse in Germany

If you’re unsure about anything, contact the German embassy in your country. It’s better to confirm than to risk getting rejected for a missing detail.

Final Thoughts

The German Spouse Visa is one of the most reliable ways to reunite with your partner in Germany, but it comes with serious paperwork and conditions. The key is preparation. If you have a genuine relationship, meet the financial and language rules, and provide all required documents, your visa is more likely to be approved without delays.

Take your time, don’t rush the application, and always stay honest. Germany’s immigration system is strict—but also fair. Thousands of people join their spouses in Germany every year through this visa. If they can do it with the right approach, so can you.