Liechtenstein family reunification

Family members are the spouse or registered partner and the couple's unmarried children under 18, including adopted and foster children. The purpose is to bring them together in the sponsor's household at the same time. Both spouses must be adults under Liechtenstein law.

Before the assurance is issued, the sponsor must prove a valid residence or settlement permit, adequate housing with enough room (rental or purchase contract) and a stable job that supports the family, or enough money so that no social assistance is needed, backed by a guarantee from a bank based in Liechtenstein. Only the sponsor's finances at the time of the application count. The spouse abroad needs basic German, unless the sponsor holds a work-based residence permit and the family enters together with them.

Reunification must be requested within three years of the permit being granted or of the marriage. A person who was admitted through family reunification can only bring a family member after four years of lawful, uninterrupted stay. A further reunification is possible only two years after a divorce becomes final.

Within the validity of the assurance or visa, the sponsor submits proof that the family members registered with the municipality, proof of the mandatory health insurance covering all risks in Liechtenstein and proof that school-age children are enrolled at school. Original proof of the family relationship can be requested.

A spouse and children admitted through reunification may take up employed work as long as the permit of the person they joined is valid; self-employment requires a settlement permit. Registered partnerships are treated like marriages. Holders of a short-stay permit and students cannot bring family members. The basic German requirement means level A1, shown by an internationally recognised certificate obtained in the home country. Permit holders under the Foreigners Act are generally required to sign an integration agreement, which costs CHF 30 to draw up.

Fees follow the ordinance in force since 1 January 2026: CHF 60 for the assurance and CHF 200 for a new residence permit issued by the office, both halved for minors, plus CHF 30 for biometric enrolment and CHF 20 for the residence card. A refused application costs CHF 80. The office provides forms for the application, the maintenance guarantee and the housing details.