TL;DR
Family reunification under the EU Blue Card is incredibly favorable. Your spouse does not need to prove basic German language skills (A1) before moving, they receive immediate and unrestricted rights to work in Germany, and there is no strict living-space test required during the initial application.
If you are relocating to Germany with your family, the EU Blue Card is undoubtedly the best visa to hold. The German government has structured the Blue Card to be as attractive as possible to highly skilled international talent, and this extends directly to family reunification.
Compared to a standard work permit, bringing your spouse and children to Germany on a Blue Card is faster, easier, and offers far better rights for your family members.
The Massive Advantage: No German Requirement
For a standard German work visa, a spouse must typically prove basic German language proficiency (A1 level) by passing an exam *before* they can be granted a family reunification visa.
Under the EU Blue Card, this requirement is completely waived. Your spouse can move to Germany with zero knowledge of the German language.
Immediate and Unrestricted Work Rights
When your spouse arrives in Germany, they will be granted a residence permit that allows for unrestricted employment.
They can:
- Work full-time or part-time for any employer.
- Work remotely for an international company.
- Start their own business or work as a freelancer.
They do not need approval from the Federal Employment Agency to start a job, making it infinitely easier for them to continue their own career.
Bringing Children
You can bring your unmarried minor children (under 18) to Germany easily under the Blue Card. Children over 16 may need to prove German language skills (C1) or demonstrate they can integrate easily, but younger children do not. Once in Germany, your children will have access to the free public education system and the generous *Kindergeld* (child benefit) monthly payments.
How to Apply for Family Reunification
You have two options when applying:
1. Concurrent Application: Your spouse and children can apply for their family reunification visas at the German embassy in your home country at the exact same time you apply for your Blue Card. 2. Subsequent Application: If you prefer to move to Germany first to find an apartment and settle in, your family can apply later.
Note on Living Space: While standard visas require you to prove you have a sufficiently large apartment before your family can join you, Blue Card holders are generally exempt from strict living-space requirements during the initial application, giving you more flexibility when securing housing.
Read our guide on moving to Germany and finding an apartment →
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my family come with me on a Blue Card?
Yes. The EU Blue Card offers excellent family reunification terms. Your spouse can join you without needing to prove German language skills and will receive immediate, unrestricted rights to work in Germany.
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