In short: Nurses with a residence permit under § 18a or § 18b or an EU Blue Card can bring their spouse and minor unmarried children. Spouses of holders of these permits do not need to prove basic German (A1) (§ 30 (1) sentence 3 no. 5). Sufficient living space is generally required (§ 29 (1)).
Note: This page provides general information and is not legal advice. The law and the decisions of the competent authorities are decisive; rules can change. As of October 2026.
Who can bring family?
Family reunification requires a residence permit in Germany and sufficient living space (§ 29 (1)). Spousal reunification is also possible during recognition under § 16d under the conditions of § 30 (1), for example if the marriage existed when the permit was granted and the stay is expected to last longer than one year.
Do spouses need German?
As a rule the spouse must be able to communicate in basic German (A1). This does not apply if the skilled worker holds, among others, an EU Blue Card or a permit under §§ 18a, 18b. For § 16d holders this provision names no exception – other exceptions may apply case by case. Both spouses must be adults.
Children
Minor unmarried children receive a residence permit if both parents (or the parent with sole custody) hold a relevant permit (§ 32 (1)). For children aged 16 or over who do not enter with their parents, extra requirements apply – waived if a parent holds e.g. a Blue Card or a §§ 18a/18b permit (§ 32 (2)).
Entering together and working
In the accelerated skilled worker procedure, spouse and minor unmarried children are included if their applications are filed in a timely connection (§ 81a (4)). Under § 4a (1), holders of a residence permit may work unless a law prohibits or restricts it. Visa procedures and waiting times differ by German mission – check the website of the mission responsible for your country.
How Berlin Tehran helps
We help healthcare professionals prepare their documents in an orderly way and coordinate with employers, following a transparent 8-step process with up to 90 days of support after arrival. We are specialised in Iran and support healthcare professionals from all countries where private recruitment is permitted (see our ethical recruitment rules). We do not provide legal advice; authorities make all decisions.
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Frequently asked questions
Does my spouse need A1 German?
Not if you hold an EU Blue Card or a permit under § 18a or § 18b (§ 30 (1) sentence 3 no. 5); otherwise A1 is generally required.
Can my family enter at the same time as me?
Yes, in the accelerated procedure if their applications are filed in a timely connection (§ 81a (4)).
Do I need a flat for family reunification?
Yes, sufficient living space is generally required (§ 29 (1)).
May my spouse work in Germany?
In principle yes, under § 4a (1), unless a law prohibits or restricts it.