German for Family Reunification: The A1 Requirement Explained

If you're joining your spouse in Germany, you usually need to prove German at A1 level before the family-reunification visa is granted. That's the short answer. Below is what it means in practice.

What A1 means, and how you prove it

A1 is the first rung on the CEFR scale. It's basic German: introducing yourself, simple questions, everyday phrases. The requirement sits in Section 30 of the Residence Act.

Here's the part people miss: studying at home on your own doesn't count. You need an official certificate from a recognised body. The most common one is Start Deutsch 1 from the Goethe-Institut.

So the goal isn't just "speak a little German" — it's passing a recognised A1 exam and holding the certificate to show for it.

When you might be exempt

Not everyone has to prove A1. Several exemptions exist:

• The sponsor already in Germany holds a skilled-worker permit or an EU Blue Card.
• You're a spouse of certain nationalities.
• Illness or disability makes learning unreasonable (you'll need a medical certificate).
• There's a case of genuine hardship.

One honest caveat: these rules depend on your exact case and the authority handling it, and they change. Confirm with the German mission in your country and an official source like Make it in Germany before you book anything.

How to reach A1 without the stress

A1 is very doable in a few focused months. The trick is daily reps on the words and phrases the exam actually tests, plus speaking out loud from day one.

That's exactly how I build it in my course: small daily lessons, flashcards, and real practice. For the bigger picture, my guide on learning German for moving to Germany walks you through it.

On a different route? See the German level you need for the Chancenkarte, or read the best way to learn German before you move.

Want to start today? Start your 5-day free trial and get your A1 foundation in place. 🚀