Route: joining family in Germany

Spouse and child reunification in outline: the legal basis and what to check.

This page only gives the outline. Family reunification (Familiennachzug) has many special cases, so use the law and the mission's leaflets for your own situation.

Spouses (§ 30 AufenthG)

• As a rule both spouses are at least 18, and the spouse abroad shows simple German (A1) before entry. The statute lists exceptions; read § 30 AufenthG for your case.
• The person in Germany needs a suitable residence permit, enough living space, and secure living costs.

Children (§ 32 AufenthG)

Minor unmarried children can join a parent who holds a residence permit; age limits and extra conditions apply. See § 32 AufenthG.

Parents (§ 36 AufenthG)

Parents of an adult living in Germany can come only in cases of exceptional hardship (§ 36 (2)); for parents of skilled workers § 36 (3) applies. Read § 36 AufenthG.

Practical points

• Marriage and birth certificates need the legalisation steps in Documents from Iran.
• Appointments and the embassy's limits: Visa application.
• A1 German: Learning German.
• Fee: €75, children €37.50 (§§ 46, 50 AufenthV).
• How long family cases currently take in Tehran is not confirmed.