spouse of a German

Hello @lead55 thank you for your question. Someone can only apply for family reunification if they are considered as immediate family, which means for spouses or registered life partner, unmarried & underaged children. Unfortunately, there needs to be an official proof, like a marriage btw. a birth certificate. Based on the residence permit of the person you would like to join, you will be able to apply for a residence permit and start working. On our website, Handbook Germany, you can find more information about family reunification. If you are planning on getting married in Germany, there is also the possibility to apply for a visa for that purpose. Please let me know if you would like to have more information about that option or have further questions.