Family Reunification for single permit holders

dj68 Member

Member since 11 January 2024

dj68Member07 January 2026 18:45:37

Hello all!

In the IBZ website, it says that

Exceptionally, embassies and consulates-general are authorised to issue a family reunification visa to the spouse and minor children of a foreign national holding a single permit, without prior consultation with the Immigration Office (‘automatic visa issue’), provided that the following conditions are met:

1. The family unit already exists on the date the Immigration Office grants the single permit (annex 46 of 47) to the worker; and

2. The “single permit” and “family reunification” visa applications are submitted simultaneously, or the “family reunification” visa application is submitted within six months from the day the “single permit” visa is issued to the accompanied or joined worker;

Does this mean, the visa process will be faster by the embassy and not the IBZ? I got my single permit in December which is less than a month.

Also, for the housing situation, I see the term "adequate housing" but cannot find what exactly it is? Like a studio of 35m2 is fine for me and my spouse?

Thanks!

@Tomkar Member

Member since 18 September 2025

@TomkarMember07 January 2026 19:14:57

@dj68

Hi ! I live in Belgium, and I’ve seen situation like this.

Yes your spouse reunification visa should be granted fast as it is based on your single permit. If your single permit is already granted, there is no reason that she don’t get her reunification visa and the embassy can directly proceed it.

For the adequate housing, OE and communes did not specifically mention a size. But a studio or a 1 bedroom appartement is adequate for a couple without children !

Hope it helps

gannam Active member

Member since 30 June 2020

gannamActive member08 January 2026 01:13:39

It is better to apply simultaneously. In my case the file of my daughter still went via additional checks but anyway we together got D visa in the end and arrived together.

The embassy asked for proof of temporary rent and for international medical insurance for at least 3 months duration, but it was during covid, maybe that is why.