Germany Visitor Visa vs Partner Visa Explained

"Germany offers two completely different visa categories depending on whether someone is visiting temporarily or joining a partner for long-term residence. Below is a simplified yet detailed comparison.

1. Purpose of Each Visa

Visitor Visa (Schengen C Visa)

Short-term visit for tourism, family visits, or short meetings

Stay is temporary

You cannot live in Germany on this visa

Partner Visa (Family Reunion – National D Visa)

Long-term residency for joining a spouse or long-term partner

Allows you to live in Germany permanently or long-term

Leads to a residence permit

2. Length of Stay

Visitor Visa

Maximum 90 days within 180 days

Non-extendable in most cases

Partner Visa

Initial validity: usually 1 year, renewable

Can lead to permanent residency after a few years

3. Work Rights

Visitor Visa

❌ No right to work

❌ Cannot freelance

❌ Cannot take employment

Partner Visa

✔ Full work rights (after receiving residence permit)

✔ Can start employment or freelance

✔ Can study

4. Required Documents

Visitor Visa

Passport

Travel itinerary

Hotel booking

Return flight ticket

Financial proof

Travel insurance

Invitation letter (optional)

Partner Visa

Much more detailed requirements, including:

Marriage certificate or proof of long-term partnership

Residence permit/Passport of partner in Germany

Proof of income & housing from the partner

A1 German language certificate (for some cases)

Proof of relationship history

5. Financial Responsibility

Visitor Visa

Applicant or host needs to show funds

Optionally: Verpflichtungserklärung (official financial sponsorship)

Partner Visa

The partner in Germany must show:

✔ Sufficient income

✔ Adequate housing

✔ Health insurance coverage

6. Ability to Change Visa Type Inside Germany

Visitor Visa

❌ Generally cannot convert to a partner visa while in Germany

You must return to your home country and apply from the embassy.

Partner Visa

✔ Issued directly for long-term stay

✔ Can be converted to a residence permit inside Germany

7. Visa Purpose & Immigration Intent

Visitor Visa

Short-term intent only

If you show long-term intention, the visa may be refused

Partner Visa

Clear long-term stay intention

Includes legal rights to live with your partner

8. Relationship Requirement

Visitor Visa

Relationship not important

Anyone can invite you (friend, relative)

Partner Visa

You must prove:

✔ Legal marriage or

✔ Recognized long-term partnership (depending on category)"