Moving to Europe to join a loved one is a big and happy change in life. But the papers and rules can make it hard. If your spouse or partner is a citizen of an EU or EEA country (but not the country you want to move to), you have good news. In 2026, there is a special way under EU rules that makes things much faster, easier, and cheaper than the normal national visa.
This special path comes from EU Treaty Rights. These rights protect your family life under strong EU laws. They can override some local rules in the country you move to.
What is the EU Family Reunification Pathway?
This path is different from the usual national visas, like the German spousal visa. The normal visa follows the country’s own laws. But the EU Family Reunification path follows Directive 2004/38/EC. This EU directive helps family members of EU/EEA citizens move and live together with less trouble and fewer papers.
EU law says family unity is very important. So, non-EU family members get special help to join their EU loved one in another EU country.
The Golden Rule of 2026
If you are married to a citizen from France, Italy, Spain, or another EU country (not Germany), and they live in Germany, you get many benefits. You do not have to follow the strict rules that apply to spouses of German citizens.
Here are some big advantages:
- No A1 German Certificate Needed: EU law says language problems should not stop families from being together. So, you do not need to show basic German skills (A1 level) for this EU path.
- Visa Fee Waiver: In most cases, you pay €0 for the visa. The application is free for family members of EU citizens.
- Faster Processing: Embassies must handle these applications quickly. They give priority to EU family cases.
This makes the process much simpler and quicker in 2026.
Requirements: How to Apply for EU Family Permit Germany 2026
To use this EU path, your EU partner must use their “Treaty Rights” in Germany. This means they must work, study, or be self-sufficient with enough money and health insurance (called Comprehensive Sickness Insurance or CSI).
Your partner cannot just live there without doing something. They must show they are active in Germany.
Essential Document Checklist
You need these main papers to apply:
- Proof of Relationship — Bring the original marriage certificate or civil partnership paper. It must be legalized or have an Apostille stamp if it is from another country.
- Registration of EU Citizen (Anmeldebescheinigung) — This shows your partner is registered at a German address. It proves they live there.
- Proof of EU Citizen’s Exercise of Treaty Rights — Give papers like an employment contract, pay slips, or a university enrollment letter. If they are self-sufficient, show bank statements and health insurance.
- VFS Global EU Family Member Appointment — When you book at VFS Global (or the German embassy), choose the category “Family Member of EU/EEA Citizen.” This choice starts the fee waiver and faster rules.
Other papers may include your passport, photos, and proof of address. Always check with the embassy for your country.
The EU citizen (your partner) must give their passport copy and proof they are using free movement rights.
Rights of Spouses of EU Citizens in Germany 2026
After your visa is approved, you get a Derivative Right of Residence. This is a strong legal right, not just a simple permit.
When you arrive in Germany, you enjoy these benefits right away:
- Right to Work for EU Family Members — You can start working or start your own business as soon as you register your address at the local office. No waiting needed.
- Residence Card for Family Members of EU Citizens (Aufenthaltskarte) — After you arrive, you apply for this special EU Residence Card. It comes under Section 5 of FreizügG/EU. It is usually valid for 5 years.
- Permanent Residency — After 5 years of living there without big breaks, you can apply for a Permanent Residence Card (Daueraufenthaltskarte). This gives you even more security.
You also get equal rights in many areas, like jobs, schools, and some benefits, just like EU citizens.
2026 Expert Strategy: Right of Entry vs. Right of Residence
It is very important to know the difference between these two things.
- Right of Entry — This is the visa you get from the embassy in your home country. It lets you enter Germany.
- Right of Residence — This is your legal status after you arrive. It comes from EU law.
In 2026, many VFS centers follow the Freizügigkeitsgesetz/EU rules closely. If you show proof of your marriage and your partner’s EU passport, the embassy should not ask you for hard proof of money or other strict things. The sponsor (your EU partner) must show they have enough funds or work, not you.
This makes the entry visa easier to get.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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Does this guide apply if my spouse is a German citizen?
No. If your spouse is German and you join them in Germany, you must use the normal German national rules. These often need an A1 language certificate and other strict proofs.
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What if we haven’t moved to Germany yet?
You can apply for the entry visa at the same time or after your EU spouse starts living in Germany. Your partner must first register and show they use Treaty Rights.
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Is there an age limit for children?
Under EU law, children up to age 21 can join. Older children can join too if they are still dependent on the parents.
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Do I need health insurance?
Yes, if your EU partner is not working (for example, a student), the family needs good health insurance that covers everything.
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How long does processing take?
EU family cases are faster. It can take weeks or a few months, but embassies must prioritize them.
This EU path helps many families come together without too much stress. Always check the latest rules at the German embassy or official EU websites, because small things can change.
Disclaimer: This guide is for information only. Talk to experts or official places for your own case. Good luck with your family move to Germany in 2026!