Bringing children to Germany from Nigeria

Last checked: 2026-09-16

Requirements may change. Always check the official source before applying.

Quick answer

An unmarried child under 18 may be able to join a parent in Germany. Custody, consent, the child’s age and the parent’s residence status can affect the documents and decision.

Main requirements

• Child is under 18 and unmarried
• Parent or parents have an eligible status in Germany
• Custody and consent are legally clear
• Identity and parent-child relationship are proven

Documents to check

• Child’s passport and birth certificate
• Parents’ passports and German residence records
• Custody order or other parent’s consent where needed
• Additional civil documents requested by the mission

Step-by-step

1. Check age and the parent’s legal status
2. Resolve custody and consent before applying
3. Prepare original civil records
4. Apply for the child through the official route

Common mistakes

• Missing consent from a parent with custody rights
• Late application when age rules may change the case
• Different spellings across family documents

Next step

Return to the Germany hub and compare this route with the other legal options. Do not pay an agent or employer before verifying the information through an official source.

Official sources

• Children joining family
• Family reunification
• German Federal Foreign Office — Visa & Service

Hanyar Turai provides educational information. It is not an embassy, government office or law firm and does not provide individual legal advice.