Moving to Germany for a new career is a milestone, but the journey isn’t complete until your family is by your side. In 2026, the German government has refined the Fachkräfteeinwanderungsgesetz (Skilled Immigration Act) to make “family following” more efficient, yet stricter financial and digital standards now apply.
Whether you’re holding a new Chancenkarte or the prestigious EU Blue Card, this guide breaks down exactly what you need to know to bring your spouse and children to Germany this year.
Legal & Visa Categories: Your Path to Reunification
Before booking an embassy appointment, you must identify the correct legal “bridge” for your family. In 2026, the process is heavily influenced by the sponsor’s current residence status.
- Skilled Immigration Act This law helps skilled workers from outside the EU. It makes it easier for families to join if you have a good job or skills.
- EU Blue Card This is a top choice for people with university degrees. In 2026, you need a yearly salary of at least €50,700 for most jobs. For jobs in high need, like IT, science, engineering, or health care, it is €45,934.20. People with this card get family help faster.
- Family Reunification Visa This is the visa your family applies for. It is a long-term visa (Category D). They apply at a German embassy or consulate.
- Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) This card lets you come to Germany to search for a job for up to one year. You can bring family only if you meet all normal rules, like enough money. It is better after you find a job.
- Spouse Joining If you were married before you came to Germany, it can be faster.
Language & Integration: 2026 Standards
Germany wants new people to learn German and join society. But there are many easy rules for skilled families.
German for Spouse: Most spouses need basic A1 German. You get a certificate from places like Goethe-Institut.
No Language Needed in Some Cases
No A1 needed if:
- You have an EU Blue Card.
- You are a highly skilled worker.
- The spouse has a university degree and can find work easily.
These rules help bring more skilled people.
- Language for Children Kids under 16 do not need to prove German. Kids 16 to 18 need C1 level, but not if they come soon after parents (within 6 months).
- Integration Classes After arrival, spouses can take free classes. They learn German and about Germany. Sometimes it is needed.
Financial & Living Space Benchmarks
Officials check if you can pay for your family without government help.
- Enough Money You must show your pay covers food, rent, and more for all. For a family of three, about €2,650 net per month is a good guide.
- Child Benefit (Kindergeld) From January 2026, it is €259 per month for each child. This money helps and counts in your income check.
- Enough Home Space You need a rent contract. About 12 square meters per person over 6 years old. 10 square meters for younger kids. Some skilled workers skip this check.
- Health Insurance Make sure your insurance covers everyone.
The Digital Move: Consular Services Portal
Germany uses online systems more now.
- Online Application In 2026, many embassies want you to start online at the portal digital.diplo.de.
- VIDEX Form Fill this form online first. Then go for photos and fingerprints.
- Travel Insurance Family needs health insurance for the trip and first time in Germany.
- Your Address in Germany Show your registered address. It should be new (less than 6 months old).
2026 Family Relocation Strategy Summary
| Category | Top Rule | 2026 Change/Result |
|---|---|---|
| Visa Path | EU Blue Card | No A1 German for spouse; quick process |
| Money | Salary Needed | €50,700 normal / €45,934.20 for needed jobs |
| Process | Online Start | Use Consular Portal first |
| Children | Age 16+ Rules | Come in 6 months to skip C1 German |
Step-by-Step Guide to Success
- Check Money See if your pay is enough. Use online tools to test if you need no extra help.
- Check Home Make sure your rent allows family and has enough space.
- Prepare Papers Marriage and birth certificates need special stamps (apostille). This can take 2-3 months.
- Start Online Upload papers early. Fix any problems before the meeting.
Bringing your family needs good planning. Start soon. Always check official websites for new changes.
Next Step: Do you want a full list of papers for a spouse from outside the EU in 2026?
Disclaimer: This is only for information. Please check real sources like the German Foreign Office (Auswärtiges Amt) or Make it in Germany website. Rules can change. Do not use this for legal decisions.