How Americans Can Relocate Their Family to Europe

Introduction

For many US citizens planning a move to Europe, the ability to relocate with family is a top priority. Fortunately, most European countries offer well-defined immigration pathways that allow you to bring your spouse, children, or dependents along.

This guide covers the family visa options available to Americans, including eligibility, required documents, timelines, processing fees, and where to apply. Whether you’re heading to Germany, France, Spain, or Portugal, this article provides the clarity you need to take the next step.

What Is Family Reunification in Europe?

Family reunification is the process through which non-EU citizens, like Americans, can sponsor their immediate family members to live with them in Europe. This usually applies to:

• Spouses or registered partners
  
• Minor children (biological or adopted)
  
• In some cases, dependent parents or adult children
  

Each EU country has its own policies, income requirements, and processing times.

Key Requirements for US Citizens Bringing Family to Europe

1. You Must Hold a Valid Residence or Work Visa

Most European countries require the main applicant (sponsor) to already have a valid residence permit or visa, such as:

• EU Blue Card
  
• Work Permit
  
• Student Visa
  
• Digital Nomad Visa
  
• Long-term Residency
  

2. Proof of Family Relationship

You'll need to submit legal documents that verify your relationship with your family member, such as:

• Marriage certificate (apostilled)
  
• Birth certificate for children (translated and apostilled)
  

3. Income and Accommodation Requirements

Most countries require proof that you can support your family financially. This varies by country:

• Germany: Enough income to cover rent, food, and health insurance (no public benefits allowed)
  
• France: Income = 1,250 €+ per month (for two people)
  
• Spain: €2,400/month for main applicant + €600 per dependent (Non-Lucrative Visa standard)
  

Accommodation must be suitable and meet space standards.

Country-Specific Family Visa Overviews

🇩🇪 Germany: Family Reunion Visa

• Eligibility: Hold a valid visa or permit in Germany
  
• Where to Apply: German Embassy or Consulate in the US (official portal)
  
• Documents Needed:
  
  • Valid passport
    
  • Marriage or birth certificates
    
  • Proof of income, accommodation
    
  • German A1 language certificate (for spouse)
    
• Processing Time: 2–4 months
  
• Fees: €75 per adult / €37.50 per child
  

🇫🇷 France: Accompanying Family Members Visa

• Eligibility: Holders of residence permit, talent passport, or EU Blue Card
  
• Where to Apply: French consulates in the US (official link)
  
• Documents Needed:
  
  • Proof of marriage or filiation
    
  • Health insurance
    
  • Proof of income
    
• Language Requirement: None for short stays, may apply later for PR
  
• Processing Time: 4–8 weeks
  
• Fees: €99 for long-stay visas
  

🇪🇸 Spain: Family Reunification Visa (under general immigration law)

• Eligibility: Must reside in Spain for 1 year (exceptions apply for work/study visas)
  
• Where to Apply: In Spain (sponsor submits request), then family applies at consulate (official info)
  
• Documents Needed:
  
  • Valid NIE and residence proof
    
  • Certified relationship proof
    
  • Proof of income and housing
    
• Processing Time: 3–6 months
  
• Fees: ~$120 per application
  

🇵🇹 Portugal: Family Reunification with D7 or Work Visa

• Eligibility: Must hold valid D7, Work, or Digital Nomad visa
  
• Where to Apply: SEF in Portugal (official link)
  
• Documents Needed:
  
  • Legalized and translated marriage/birth documents
    
  • Proof of shared address
    
  • Income (€820+ per person)
    
• Processing Time: 60–90 days
  
• Fees: €90–€120 per applicant
  
  

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting untranslated or unauthenticated documents
  
• Ignoring language requirements (Germany especially)
  
• Missing minimum income thresholds
  
• Waiting too long to start the process (some take 6+ months)
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FAQs

• Can I bring my spouse on a tourist visa and then switch?
  
  • Generally no. Most EU countries do not allow in-country visa switching. It’s best to apply from the US.
• Can same-sex partners apply?
  
  • Yes. Most EU countries recognize same-sex marriages or registered partnerships for immigration.
• Do children need to enroll in school immediately?
  
  • Yes. If staying long-term, children must be enrolled in a local or international school soon after arrival.

Conclusion

Relocating to Europe with your family is absolutely possible for US citizens, but planning ahead is key. Each country has slightly different rules, but with expert guidance, the process can be smooth.

At Jobbatical, we specialize in family relocations to Germany, France, Portugal, and beyond. From document prep to post-arrival support, we ensure every family member lands smoothly.

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