Family Reunion Visa - Child
Minor children joining a parent who holds residence in or is a citizen of Germany.
The Family Reunion Visa - Child is a German family & partner visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~€37.50 (minors, visa); ~€100 (residence permit)) and processing time (~1-3 months), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Family Reunion Visa - Child is for
Minor children joining a parent who holds residence in or is a citizen of Germany.
Path to settlement alongside the family.
Family Reunion Visa - Child - eligibility criteria
- Child under 18 (under 16 has stricter language rules)
- Parent(s) hold qualifying residence status
- Custody/consent of both parents where relevant
- Adequate housing and income
- Health insurance coverage
Family Reunion Visa - Child cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Family Reunion Visa - Child (Germany) is ~€37.50 (minors, visa); ~€100 (residence permit), with an indicative processing time of ~1-3 months. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Make it in Germany / BAMF.
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | At a German consulate abroad |
| Length of stay | Tied to parent's permit (renewable) |
| Work rights | Permitted within youth rules |
| Study rights | Full access to schooling |
| Government fee | ~€37.50 (minors, visa); ~€100 (residence permit) |
| Processing time | ~1-3 months |
| Route to PR | Path to settlement alongside the family. |
Pathway & next steps
Path to settlement alongside the family.
Many applicants also compare Spouse Join · Family Reunion Visa - Spouse/Partner, Parent Join · Family Reunion Visa - Parent, Skilled Worker · Skilled Worker Visa (Fachkräfte, §18a/§18b). Run a free VisaChief check to see which German route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Family Reunion Visa - Child pitfalls we fix
Family Reunion Visa - Child - frequently asked questions
How much does the Family Reunion Visa - Child cost?
The Family Reunion Visa - Child government fee is ~€37.50 (minors, visa); ~€100 (residence permit). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Make it in Germany / BAMF before applying.
How long does the Family Reunion Visa - Child take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~1-3 months. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Family Reunion Visa - Child lead to permanent residence?
Path to settlement alongside the family.
Can I work on the Family Reunion Visa - Child?
Work rights: Permitted within youth rules.
Who can apply for the Family Reunion Visa - Child?
Minor children joining a parent who holds residence in or is a citizen of Germany.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Germany government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Make it in Germany / BAMF - official Germany immigration authority