A residence permit may be granted if you and your spouse or domestic partner are at least 18 years of age, although exceptions to the minimum age requirement may be made in certain cases.

You are generally required to demonstrate basic language proficiency. With basic language proficiency, you should be able to communicate easily in German in everyday situations—for example, asking for directions, shopping, and introducing yourself. There are several exceptions to the requirement to demonstrate language proficiency. For example, if the foreign national holds an EU Blue Card, an ICT Card, or a Mobile ICT Card, you do not need to provide proof of language skills. You can obtain information on other exceptions to the language requirement from your local authority.

The residence permit for family reunification is a temporary residence permit. It is granted for the duration of the family member’s residence permit in Germany—for at least one year. If the residence permit of the foreign national living in Germany is valid for less than one year, the residence permit for family reunification will also be issued for the shorter duration.

The residence permit issued for family reunification entitles you to engage in gainful employment.

Under certain circumstances, the Foreigners’ Registration Office may require you to participate in an integration course. This will then be noted on your residence permit.