Moving to Germany to live with your husband or wife is a very happy time in life. But the rules and papers can feel hard and confusing. Now in 2026, the Germany spouse visa rules are a little easier in some ways, like more online steps. But the government checks everything very carefully. They want to make sure you do not need help from state money and can live well.
This guide is simple and clear. It helps people from non-EU countries who want to join their partner in Germany. You need a National Visa (Type D) for family reunion. After you get it, you can start your new life in Germany.
The Three Main Rules for Germany Spouse Visa Success
To get the residence permit for family reunion (called Ehegattennachzug in German), you must meet three big rules. Germany protects family life (from Article 6 of the Basic Law). But they also make sure the family can support itself without state benefits like Bürgergeld.
Here are the three main parts:
- Language — You need basic German at A1 level.
- Money — The sponsor must have enough income.
- House — There must be enough space to live.
| Category | 2026 Rule | Main Paper Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Language | Basic German (A1 level) | Goethe or Telc certificate |
| Financial | Enough net income (Regelsatz) | Last 3 months salary slips |
| Housing | About 12 square meters per person | Wohnflächenbescheinigung (proof of living space) |
These three things are very important. If one is missing, the visa can get refused.
Navigating the Language Hurdle: The A1 Requirement
Most people who apply for the Germany spouse visa must show they know basic German. This is A1 level. It helps you talk in simple daily life, like shopping or saying hello. After you arrive in Germany, you usually have to take an integration course too.
You take a test at places like Goethe-Institut or telc. The certificate must be new, often not older than one year.
Who Does Not Need the A1 Certificate?
Some people get an exemption. You may not need A1 if:
- Your spouse has an EU Blue Card, ICT Card, or Mobile ICT Card (these are for skilled workers).
- You have a university degree and a good chance to integrate well (called “favorable integration forecast”).
- You come from certain countries like the US, UK, Canada, or Australia (these are sometimes called privileged nations).
If you fit one of these, you can skip the language test. But check with the embassy because rules can change a little.
The Sponsor’s Standards: Financials and Housing
The person in Germany (the sponsor) must prove they can take care of the family. This means enough money and a good home.
For money, there is no fixed minimum salary for all cases. It depends on the state in Germany. The income must cover rent, health insurance, food, and living costs. It often follows the Regelsatz. For one adult, it is around €563 per month or more, plus extra for children if any. The sponsor shows last three months’ salary slips or job contract.
The authorities look at the sponsor’s house. There must be enough space. The rule is about 12 square meters per adult. Sometimes more for children. You need a Wohnflächenbescheinigung or rental agreement (Mietvertrag) to prove this.
You also need health insurance (Krankenversicherung) from the first day you enter Germany. It must be full coverage.
Good news: When you get the visa and residence permit, the spouse can work in Germany right away. No limits on job or hours.
Family Reunion Visa Germany Checklist: 2026 Edition
Before you go to the German Embassy or Consulate for your appointment, collect all papers. Many things need special steps like apostille or translation.
Here is the main checklist for 2026:
- Valid passport for you and copies of sponsor’s passport.
- Filled National Visa application form (now often online through Consular Services Portal).
- Two biometric photos.
- Marriage certificate with apostille or legalization (to show marriage is real and legal).
- Certified translations of all foreign papers into German by a sworn translator.
- Notarized copies of passports and residence permit of the sponsor.
- Proof of sponsor’s job: employment contract, salary slips for last 3 months.
- Proof of house: rental agreement and Wohnflächenbescheinigung.
- A1 German certificate (if needed).
- Health insurance proof.
- Sometimes photos of wedding or other proof of real marriage.
Pro Tip: Can I apply for Germany Spouse Visa while on a tourist visa? No, usually not. You must apply for the Type D visa from your home country before you travel to Germany. Do not come as a tourist and then try to change it.
Make sure all papers are ready. Embassies can ask for more if something is missing.
Germany Spouse Visa Processing Time 2026
In 2026, the processing time for Germany spouse visa is about 8 to 12 weeks on average. But it changes a lot by place. Embassies in high-volume areas like Islamabad or New Delhi can take longer because many people apply.
Apply early. Book your appointment as soon as you can. Use the online portal if your embassy has it.
Common Germany Spouse Visa Interview Questions 2026
At the embassy, you will have an interview. They want to make sure the marriage is real. Be honest and clear.
Some common questions are:
- How and where did you meet your spouse?
- What does your spouse do for work in Germany?
- Do you plan to work or study when you come to Germany?
- Tell us about your daily life plans together.
Practice simple answers. Bring photos or messages if they help show your relationship.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
-
What is the minimum salary for a family reunion visa in Germany 2026?
There is no one fixed number. It depends on the state. The income must cover basic needs like rent, health insurance, and about €563 per adult each month (plus more for children). The sponsor must not need state help.
-
How do I start my Goethe A1 exam preparation for a German Spouse Visa?
Start with intensive courses. Many people do 4-week classes. You can find online or in-person courses at Goethe-Institut or other places. Practice speaking and listening every day. The certificate should be fresh, not older than one year when you apply.
-
Does the spouse get working rights immediately?
Yes. After you get the family reunification residence permit, you can work in any job in Germany without limits.
This guide gives you the basic steps for Germany spouse visa in 2026. Rules can change, so always check the official German embassy website or Federal Foreign Office for the latest information in your country.
Disclaimer: This article is for information and learning only. Please check with trusted official sources before you make any decisions.