In this article we explain how to apply for a residence permit in Germany if you are married to a citizen of the European Union.
As you may already know, EU citizens have the right to live and work freely within the European Union. If you are a non-EU citizen (from a country outside the EU) married to an EU citizen living in Germany, you can normally apply for a residence card that also allows you to live and work in Germany.
The exact application process and required documents may vary slightly depending on your local immigration office (Ausländerbehörde), but don't worry: we'll explain the process step by step.
1. Who can apply?
This visa is intended for people who meet the following requirements:
- You are not a citizen of the EU (European Union), the EEA (European Economic Area) or Switzerland.
- Your spouse is a citizen of an EU country (this guide does not apply if your spouse is German).
- Your spouse lives in Germany and is exercising their right to freedom of movement (for example, by working, being self-employed, studying or having sufficient financial resources).
- You are legally married to your spouse.
Who is this visa NOT for?
This visa does not cover the following cases:
- You are married to a German citizen.
- You and your spouse live outside Germany.
- You are applying for a family reunification visa from outside the European Union.
2. What residence permit will you receive?
If your application is approved, you will receive a Residence card for family members of EU citizens.
Although many people call it a “residence permit”, it is actually a different document under EU free movement rules.
This card offers several key benefits:
- It usually has a validity of up to five years. Bear in mind that the validity of the card will depend on your passport. For example, if your passport expires in 1 year, then the validity of the card will be 1 year.
- It allows you to live legally in Germany with your spouse.
- Allows working in Germany without restrictions.
- It also allows for studying or working on a self-employed basis.
3. Documents you need
- Valid passport
- Marriage certificate or registered partnership certificate (in German)
- ID card or passport of the EU spouse
- Registration certificates (Anmeldung)
- Cohabitation trial
- Current biometric photo
Important: From 1 May 2025, biometric photos can only be taken digitally at government offices or photographic studios and transmitted via secure electronic means.
- Health insurance
- Employment contract or proof that the spouse is exercising EU rights
- Proof of the right of free movement for EU/EEA citizens
In some cases, they may also request:
- For workers: employment confirmation by the employer
- For the self-employed: activity log, tax number, tax return
- For unemployed people: proof of health insurance and means of subsistence
- For family members of German citizens: residence card or permanent residence of the other EU country
Full form
Form:“Information on the issue of a residence card”
- Appointment confirmation (if applicable)
Important: For foreign documents, translation and, in some cases, an apostille or legalisation may be required.
Depending on the country of origin, an apostille or confirmation of authenticity may also be required.
4. Step-by-step process
Step 1
Register the address Registration.
Bear in mind that although you do not have your residence card yet, you can do the Anmeldung together with your partner.
Step 2
Gather all the documents.
Step 3
Book an appointment at the Foreigners' Registration Office.
- Berlin: Berlin Immigration Office . More information on the process in Berlin in this link.
- Munich Munich Service Portal
- If you want to apply from outside Germany: You are going to need to book an appointment for an entry visa through Consular Services Portal or through the German Embassy in your country.
Step 4
Attend the appointment.
Step 5
Take fingerprints.
Step 6
Receive a temporary certificate (if applicable).
Step 7
Waiting for the residence card.
5. How long does it take?
The electronic residence card is usually issued in approximately four weeks after the appointment and can be collected from the immigration office.
6. Can you work while you wait?
In most cases, yes. As the spouse of an EU citizen, you normally have the right to work in Germany while your application is being processed.
After submitting the application, the immigration office can issue a temporary certificate confirming your right to reside and work until the card is ready.
How much does it cost?
The cost depends on age:
- Over 24s: €46.00
- Under 24s: €27.60
Digital biometric photo (optional at machine): €6.00
Prices are subject to change, so it is always advisable to confirm beforehand.
8. Common reasons for delay
- Incomplete documents
- Marriage certificate without legalisation or translation
- Lack of Anmeldung
- Incomplete request
- High workload in the immigration office
9. What happens after 5 years?
If you have lived in Germany continuously for five years with your EU spouse while they were exercising their right to free movement, you can normally apply for a permanent residence card.
This card confirms your permanent right to live and work in Germany and no longer depends on the initial reason for your stay.
FAQ
Can I apply for it without a visa?
It depends on your nationality.
You can apply for it without a visa if:
- You are a citizen of a visa-exempt country (Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Japan, United Kingdom, United States, etc.).
You can enter Germany without a visa and apply for the card directly at the immigration office (Ausländerbehörde).
You are also exempt if you already hold a residence card as a family member of an EU citizen issued by another EU country.
You must apply for a visa if:
- You are from a country that requires a visa (India, China, Pakistan, Nigeria, Turkey, etc.).
Can I travel while I wait?
Yes, but it depends on your documents:
- Valid residence permit
- Fiktionsbescheinigung
With a card from another Schengen country you can enter for up to 90 days without a visa.
Can I start work immediately?
In most cases, yes.
Do I need to know German?
No.
Can I apply for it if we've just got married?
Yes.
What happens if my partner changes jobs?
It doesn't normally affect it.
What happens if we move city?
The card is still valid, but you must do the Anmeldung and update your immigration office.
Can I apply online?
No, usually it is not possible.
How long is the card valid for?
Up to 5 years and depending on the validity period of your passport.
What happens if we get divorced?
It depends on your situation. In some cases you can keep the right of residence if you meet certain requirements (length of marriage, work, children, etc.).
Tips
- Make digital copies of all documents
- Bring originals and copies
- Check translations
- Arrive early for appointments
- Save all the emails
Conclusion
Although the paperwork can seem complicated, the process is usually quite straightforward if you prepare the documents well.
It is always advisable to check the specific requirements of your local foreigners office (Ausländerbehörde), as they can vary depending on the city. With good preparation, the process usually goes much more smoothly.
