Family reunification requirements

When applying for family reunification in Germany, especially for a child joining a parent, the Ausländerbehörde (ABH) may request an `Eidesstattliche Erklärung über den Wohnsitzwechsel mit Einreise Ihrer Tochter` (Affidavit on Change of Residence with Entry of Your Daughter). This document confirms the intent of the applicant and the family member to reside at a specified address after entry. If the visa for the family member is pending, it is advised to state in the declaration that the family member will reside at the new address 'upon receipt of the expected visa and entry into Germany.' The ABH typically requires a comprehensive set of documents including: Arbeitsvertrag (employment contract), Arbeitgeberbescheinigung (employer certificate), Die letzten drei Lohnnachweise (last three payslips), Rentenversicherungsverlauf (pension insurance record), Mietvertrag (rental contract) or Bescheid über Grundbesitzabgaben (property tax notice), Grundbuchauszug (land registry extract), and Nachweis über die monatliche Abtragung der Wohnung (proof of monthly mortgage payments) if applicable.

Detailed discussion on German language certificate (A1 level) requirements for family reunification. Key points: 1. Reunification with a German citizen: A1 certificate is generally mandatory. 2. Reunification with an EU citizen residing in Germany: Requirements can vary. Official sources (embassy website, immigration office - ABH) should be consulted. Some users report needing it for the residence permit (Aufenthaltstitel) even if initially waived for the visa. 3. Integration courses: Not always mandatory, especially for reunification with an EU citizen partner, but individual immigration officers (Sachbearbeiter) may have discretion. 4. Discrepancies in interpretation: Different immigration offices (ABH) and even individual officers can apply rules differently. Relying solely on anecdotal evidence can be misleading. 5. Official sources: Emphasized as the most reliable for accurate information regarding required documents and procedures.

For marriage registration intended for German family reunification, consider alternative locations like Georgia or Kazakhstan if German procedures are complex. Be aware that the country of marriage can impact German authorities' requirements. Specifically, inquire about the need for a certificate of marital status from the foreign registry office, as this can influence the required documentation for reunification in Germany. Notarized translators are typically required, and while some documents might be translated from scans, in-person submission at the German registry office (Standesamt) is usually necessary. The process for obtaining a marriage license in Germany can be lengthy, involving obtaining permission from the court and a visa for the fiancé(e).

Applying for family reunification in Germany when the couple resides at separate addresses can be problematic. While you need to provide reasons for separate living in the application, authorities may view this as a 'red flag' and a potential violation, as cohabitation is generally expected. Past cases indicate that issues with the landlord or registration (Anmeldung) that lead to separate living arrangements have been considered serious infringements, potentially jeopardizing the application. It's crucial to have strong, justifiable reasons for separate residences, though the ideal scenario is to demonstrate shared living.