German visa for Indian students: Can you bring your family along? Your important queries answered

Here are the best points addressing important queries regarding German visa for Indian students, specifically about bringing your family along:

1. Can Indian Students Bring Their Family to Germany?

• Yes, Indian students can bring their family members to Germany while studying, but there are specific visa and eligibility requirements.
• The family members who can accompany the student include:
  • Spouse
  • Minor children (below 18 years old)

2. Types of Visas for Family Members

• Family members of students (spouse and children) can apply for a Family Reunification Visa.
  • Spouse Visa: If you are married, your spouse can apply for a visa to join you in Germany during your studies.
  • Child Visa: If you have children under 18, they can apply for a visa as dependents.

3. Eligibility Criteria for Family Reunification Visa

• The student (main applicant) must meet the following conditions:
  • Hold a valid Student Visa or Residence Permit in Germany.
  • Provide proof of sufficient funds to support your family’s stay (usually, the student must prove they can financially support both themselves and their family).
  • Adequate Housing: The student should have sufficient living space for their family members.
• For the family members:
  • Spouse: The spouse may need to show proof of the relationship (marriage certificate).
  • Children: Proof of parental relationship (birth certificate) and that the child is under 18.

4. Financial Requirements

• To bring family members along, the student must demonstrate financial stability to cover both their own expenses and those of their family.
  • For spouses, the student may need to show a minimum amount in their bank account (often around €800-€1,000 per month for the family, depending on the city).
  • If the family members are applying for their own visa, they must provide evidence of sufficient funds to cover their living expenses as well.

5. Work Rights for Spouse

• In most cases, the spouse of a student on a family reunification visa is allowed to work in Germany.
  • The spouse is typically granted the right to work without restrictions, though there may be conditions based on the student’s visa type and region.

6. Visa Application Process

• For Family Members: Family members need to apply for a Family Reunification Visa at the German Embassy or Consulate in India.
• The process involves submitting documents such as:
  • Marriage certificate (for spouses).
  • Birth certificate (for children).
  • Proof of financial resources (bank statements, scholarship details, etc.).
  • Health insurance: Proof that family members have valid health insurance for their stay in Germany.

7. Processing Time for Family Visa

• The processing time for a Family Reunification Visa can vary, but it typically takes 2 to 3 months.
• It’s important to apply well in advance before your family plans to join you in Germany to avoid delays.

8. Residence Permit for Family Members

• Once the family members arrive in Germany, they may need to apply for a residence permit (aufenthaltstitel) if they are planning to stay long-term.
• This is usually done after arrival at the local Foreigners’ Office in Germany.

9. Can Family Stay After Studies End?

• If you finish your studies, your family’s residence status may change. Your family members can continue to stay in Germany as long as you maintain your student status or transition to another type of visa (like a work visa or Blue Card).
• If you decide to leave Germany, your family must also return.

10. Limitations and Restrictions

• Limited Time for Non-EU Students: The length of stay for the family members is generally tied to the duration of the student’s visa. If the student’s visa is valid for 1-2 years, the family visa will be valid for the same period.
• Language Requirements: In some cases, the spouse may be asked to demonstrate basic knowledge of the German language. However, this requirement may vary depending on the embassy or consulate.

11. Accommodation Requirements

• You must provide proof of having suitable accommodation for both yourself and your family members in Germany.
• This can include a rental agreement or evidence of university accommodation.

Conclusion:

Yes, Indian students can bring their family to Germany, but there are specific visa processes and financial requirements. The process includes applying for a Family Reunification Visa for the spouse and children, meeting the financial criteria, and ensuring there’s enough space and health insurance. While the spouse is typically allowed to work, children can stay under the dependent visa arrangement. It’s important to follow the necessary procedures and prepare all required documents for a smooth application process.