Some migrants mostly International students often find it difficult to adapt to life in Germany or just want to have their family join them in the country so they apply for a Family reunion Visa. A family reunion visa allows specified relatives to join students in Germany, helping with the transition. This article will focus on the typical processing times for family reunion visas to Germany.
It typically takes about 3 months from the submission date of all required documents to the German embassy or consulate to get most family reunion visa applications processed. Processing although would not begin until all required documents such as proof of relationship, accommodations in Germany, and financial means have been verified. Applicants who might want to skip the wait time and get their family to Germany faster would have to speed-track the Visa process by paying an additional fee for expedited “fast-track” review, potentially cutting processing down to just 1-2 months. This is particularly useful for situations requiring urgent family support.
The processing time for a Family Reunion Visa to Germany can vary significantly depending on the applicant’s country of origin. Below is a table summarizing the processing times and any differing requirements based on various countries:
| Country | Processing Time | Additional Requirements |
| United States | 1-3 months | Proof of relationship, financial stability, and basic German language skills for spouses. |
| United Kingdom | 2-12 weeks | Proof of relationship, financial means, accommodation. |
| Canada | 1-3 months | Proof of relationship and financial stability. |
| Australia | 1-3 months | Proof of relationship and sufficient financial means. |
| India | Minimum 3 months | Proof of financial means and accommodation. |
| China | Approximately 8 weeks | Additional documentation may be required. |
| Brazil | 2-6 months | Proof of relationship and financial means. |
| South Africa | 2-4 months | Proof of relationship and financial stability. |
| Mexico | 1-3 months | Proof of relationship and financial means. |
| Russia | 2-6 months | Proof of relationship and financial stability. |
| Philippines | 2-4 months | Proof of relationship and financial means. |
| Nigeria | 3-6 months | Proof of relationship and financial stability. |
| Pakistan | 3-6 months | Proof of relationship and financial means. |
| Egypt | 2-4 months | Proof of relationship and financial documentation. |
| Turkey | 1-3 months | Proof of relationship and financial means. |
| Vietnam | 2-4 months | Proof of relationship and financial stability. |
| Thailand | 2-4 months | Proof of relationship and financial means. |
| Colombia | 2-4 months | Proof of relationship and financial documentation. |
| Argentina | 2-4 months | Proof of relationship and financial means. |
General Requirements for Family Reunion Visa
Regardless of the country, applicants typically need to provide the following documents:
- Completed application form.
- Valid passport (issued within the last 10 years).
- Biometric passport photo.
- Proof of German language skills (A1 level).
- Invitation letter from a German resident family member.
- Proof of accommodation in Germany.
- Travel health insurance.
- Proof of financial means.
For spouses, additional documents such as a marriage certificate and proof of the relationship may be required. The specific requirements can vary based on the applicant’s relationship to the German resident and their residency status
As policies and volumes can affect wait times, students are wise to submit applications early and check the specific guidance from their local German embassy or consulate for the most accurate processing timeframe expectations. With preparation, reuniting with family can go smoothly.
