Family reunification with a Blue Card
This is how family reunification works with the Blue Card.
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Here you learn ...
how family reunification works with the EU Blue Card
How to apply for spouse reunification with the Blue Card
Language requirements for Blue Card family reunification
everything about the joint appearance for spouses
Table of contents
1. Family reunification with a Blue Card
2. Spouse visa Blue Card
3. Language Family Reunification Blue Card
4. Joint appearance of spouses
5. FAQ
6. Conclusion
1. Family reunification with a Blue Card
The EU Blue Card not only offers highly qualified third-country nationals attractive opportunities for access to the labor market, but also significantly simplifies family reunification . Spouses and minor children of EU Blue Card holders are generally legally entitled to a residence permit (Sections 30 and 32 of the Residence Act). Privileged conditions apply, intended to simplify and expedite the immigration of family members.
A particular advantage exists for parents and parents-in-law : Since March 1, 2024, these family members can also join their families if the EU Blue Card was first issued on or after that date (Section 36 (3) of the Residence Act). However, this is subject to the condition that all persons joining them have a secure livelihood and adequate health insurance. The aim of this regulation is to strengthen skilled immigration by creating better conditions for family integration.
2. Spouse visa Blue Card
The requirements for spouses applying for an EU Blue Card are significantly simplified. In particular, spouses are no longer required to provide proof of basic German language skills prior to entry ( Section 30, Paragraph 1, Sentence 3, No. 5 of the Residence Act ). This means that spouses are entitled to a residence permit regardless of their level of education, professional status, or language skills, provided the general requirements are met.
In addition, the spouse's residence permit applications are generally processed simultaneously with the primary beneficiary's application for an EU Blue Card (Article 17 (4) of Directive 2021/1883). This is intended to ensure that the family can enter and reside in Germany together as quickly as possible. The validity of the residence permits is based on that of the EU Blue Card (Section 27 (4) Sentence 2 of the Residence Act).
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Are you looking for a lawyer specializing in German immigration and visa law? We are happy to assist you with residence procedures before embassies, immigration authorities, and administrative courts. Our specialised attorneys are always by your side. Contact us to book an online appointment with a German immigration lawyer!
3. Language Family Reunification Blue Card
A key feature of family reunification under the EU Blue Card is the waiver of language skills for spouses. According to Section 30, Paragraph 1, Sentence 3, No. 5 of the Residence Act, basic German language skills (level A1) are not required prior to entry. This represents a significant simplification compared to general residence permits, which regularly require proof of language skills.
After entering the country, family members are entitled to participate in an integration course pursuant to Section 44 Paragraph 1 No. 1b of the Residence Act. This gives spouses and children the opportunity to systematically improve their German language skills and familiarize themselves with German society at an early stage. In certain cases (Section 44 Paragraph 3 of the Residence Act), this entitlement may be waived, for example, if language skills are sufficient or the duration of stay is foreseeably short.
4. Joint appearance of spouses
For spouses applying for family reunification, a joint appointment at the immigration office or German diplomatic mission abroad is generally possible. This serves to establish identity, verify family cohabitation, and ensure compliance with legal requirements. The joint appointment is particularly relevant if the application for family reunification is submitted in parallel with the application for an EU Blue Card. This significantly simplifies the process, as it eliminates the need to book two separate visa appointments.
It is important that all documents are submitted complete and up-to-date , including marriage certificates, proof of financial security, proof of health insurance, and copies of the EU Blue Card or its pre-approval. A well-prepared interview can significantly expedite the process. It is advisable to schedule an appointment with the relevant authority early and to observe any special regulations in your federal state.
Contact us
Are you looking for a lawyer specializing in German immigration and visa law? We are happy to assist you with residence procedures before embassies, immigration authorities, and administrative courts. Our specialised attorneys are always by your side. Contact us to book an online appointment with a German immigration lawyer!
5. FAQ
Who is allowed to join a family member with a Blue Card?
Spouses, minor children and – since 1 March 2024 – also parents and parents-in-law may join holders of an EU Blue Card, provided the legal requirements are met (Sections 30, 32, 36 (3) of the Residence Act).
Do spouses have to speak German when joining family members?
No. For family reunification with EU Blue Card holders, no basic knowledge of German is required (Section 30, Paragraph 1, Sentence 3, No. 5 of the Residence Act). This represents a significant simplification compared to regular family reunification.
Can spouses appear in person when applying?
Yes. A joint appointment at the German diplomatic mission or immigration office is usually possible, especially if the application for family reunification is submitted together with the application for the EU Blue Card. However, depending on the embassy, a separate appointment may be necessary. In this case, the embassy should be informed of the joint appointment by email.
How long is the residence permit valid for family members?
The residence permit for family members is generally issued for the same period as the EU Blue Card of the primary beneficiary (Section 27 (4) Sentence 2 of the Residence Act).
6. Conclusion
Family reunification with the EU Blue Card is legally privileged and deliberately simplified. Spouses are not required to demonstrate language skills, children have a legal right to reside in the country, and even parents and parents-in-law have been able to join them under certain conditions since March 2024. This makes the EU Blue Card not only an attractive instrument for skilled immigration, but also a model for family-friendly immigration policy. Anyone planning family reunification with the EU Blue Card should inform themselves early on about the procedures, documents, and deadlines. A joint interview and a complete application are crucial for speedy processing. If you are unsure, legal advice is recommended – for example, from specialized law firms such as VISAGUARD – to fully exercise all rights and ensure legal certainty.
