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Introduction
Planning to relocate to Europe with your partner or spouse? Whether you're both US citizens or one of you is a non-US national, many European countries offer partner or family reunification visas that allow couples to live together legally while one partner works or studies.
In this guide, we break down the most common ways couples can move to Europe together in 2025, including eligibility criteria, key documents, timelines, and fees.
Visa Options for Couples Moving to Europe
1. Family Reunification (Spouse/Partner) Visas
This is the most common route when one partner already has a valid visa (e.g., EU Blue Card, Work Visa, Student Visa).
Who is Eligible:
- Married couples
- Registered civil partners
- In some countries, long-term unmarried couples with proof of cohabitation
Countries Offering This:
- Germany: Spouse visa under EU Blue Card, work permit holders
- France: Accompanying family visa for talent passport, researchers
- Portugal: Family reunification with D7, digital nomad, or work visa
- Spain: Reunification after 1 year of residence (exceptions for some visa types)
Key Requirements by Country
🇩🇪 Germany
- Sponsor must hold a valid visa or residence permit
- Spouse usually needs A1 German language certificate (waived for Blue Card holders)
- Adequate income & health insurance
- Where to apply: German consulates (official link)
- Fees: €75
- Processing Time: 2–4 months
🇫🇷 France
- Must prove legal relationship
- Income, housing, and health insurance required
- Spouse can often work depending on visa of sponsor
- Where to apply: https://france-visas.gouv.fr
- Fees: €99
- Processing Time: 4–8 weeks
🇵🇹 Portugal
- Relationship must be recognized legally (marriage or registered)
- Sponsor needs to show income (~€820/month) and accommodation
- Spouse receives permit allowing work
- Where to apply: https://imigrante.sef.pt/en/
- Fees: €90–€120
- Processing Time: 60–90 days
🇪🇸 Spain
- Typically allowed after one year of residency
- Some exceptions apply for certain visa types
- Must show sufficient income and housing
- Where to apply: Spanish consulates (link)
- Fees: ~$120
- Processing Time: 3–6 months
What About Unmarried Couples?
Some EU countries, including the Netherlands and Sweden, recognize de facto or long-term partnerships. However, requirements include:
- Proof of joint bank accounts or shared residence for 1+ years
- Legalized affidavit or proof of relationship history
This path is more complex, but possible with strong documentation.
Can Both Partners Work?
In most cases, yes. Spouses or partners accompanying the main visa holder can usually work legally once granted residence. This is especially true in:
- Germany (with Blue Card)
- France (accompanying family of talent passport holders)
- Portugal (under reunification permit)
Documents Needed
- Valid passports
- Marriage or registered partnership certificates (apostilled & translated)
- Proof of accommodation in destination country
- Sponsor’s visa/residence permit
- Health insurance
- Income documentation (payslips, employment contract, or tax returns)
Common Pitfalls
- Not having documents legalized (apostille + certified translation)
- Assuming you can convert a tourist visa in-country (most countries don’t allow this)
- Underestimating processing time or income requirements
Real-World Example
Michael and Emma, a married couple from California, moved to Lisbon in 2024. Michael held a D7 visa, and Emma applied for family reunification. Within two months, she received her residence permit and started remote freelance work for US clients.
Conclusion
Moving to Europe as a couple is very feasible for US citizens—as long as you know which visa path to pursue and prepare your paperwork properly. Whether one of you has a job offer or passive income, most countries welcome family unity.
At Jobbatical, we’ll help you find the right path, gather your documents, and ensure your move is seamless for both partners.
Disclaimer:
Immigration laws and policies change frequently and may vary by country or nationality. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we recommend doing your own due diligence or consulting official sources. You're also welcome to contact us directly for the latest guidance. Jobbatical is not responsible for decisions made based on the information provided.
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