Familiennachzug

Family reunification

Helpful when…

You want a partner, child or another eligible family member to join you in Germany.

Family residenceUpdated 25 September 2026Read the legal sources

What it is

Familiennachzug means joining family in Germany. A lawyer helps identify the route, prepare the evidence and handle the visa or residence application. [1]

How a lawyer can help

  1. Describe the family situation.

    Explain who wants to join whom, each person’s nationality, location and immigration status.

  2. Identify the relevant rules.

    The lawyer checks which family route applies and what evidence is needed.

  3. Prepare the application.

    Agree help with documents, submission and communication with the relevant authorities.

A helpful starting point

Who is joining whom, where each person lives and any existing application or decision.

Common questions

Can any family member use the same route?

No. The relationship and the person’s status in Germany matter. Share the exact family circumstances with the practice.

Can the lawyer help if an application is already pending?

Ask for a review of the existing application and correspondence. Follow-up, file access and any challenge would need an agreed scope.

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General information, not legal advice.