A case cannot be considered without an invitation to family reunification by the husband who is willing to accept and finance the immigrant wife initially. Marriage may only be planned, but it must be documented by a certificate from the civil registry office about the application. The wife or bride should also be provided with an A1 language certificate, which includes communication on everyday topics. Spouses may not be under the age of 18 or close relatives. Health insurance will also be required to cover the first 2 weeks after arrival at the new residence.
The following documents are required from the host country for family reunification in Germany:
- Income certificate or bank statement that will show the level of income sufficient to exist without a claim to state aid.
- A contract for the lease of acceptable housing, the area of which shall be at least 12 square meters per person.
If a sham marriage is revealed, the spouses face deportation with a ban on entry or criminal punishment, so it is almost impossible to find those willing to initiate such schemes.