Best Dependent Visa Lawyers in Feldbach

1. About Dependent Visa Law in Feldbach, Austria

In Feldbach, Austria, dependent visa rules are part of the federal immigration framework rather than local Feldbach ordinances. The core concept is family reunification (Familiennachzug), allowing spouses, registered partners, and dependent children of a resident to join them in Austria. The process is overseen by Austrian immigration authorities in Styria and requires robust documentation to prove the relationship, health coverage, and financial self sufficiency.

Residents of Feldbach typically submit applications through the local Bezirkshauptmannschaft or Magistrat that handles immigration matters in their district. Applications often require translated and certified documents, such as marriage certificates, birth certificates, and evidence of housing, as well as proof of health insurance. Timelines and requirements can vary based on nationality and individual circumstances.

Tip for Feldbach residents - start gathering documents early and ensure that key items are authenticated and translated by a sworn translator. A well prepared file reduces back and forth requests from authorities and can shorten processing times.

2. Why You May Need a Lawyer

Below are concrete, real world scenarios where people in Feldbach commonly benefit from legal counsel for dependent visa matters.

• Scenario 1 - Complicated family ties: A non EU spouse born outside Austria has several surname changes and inconsistent birth certificates from different countries. A lawyer helps unify documents, explains how to prove the relationship, and handles translations and attestations to satisfy the immigration authority.
• Scenario 2 - Ageing child dependent status: A 21 year old child with a disability seeks continued residence as a dependent. An attorney guides the case to demonstrate ongoing dependency and coordinates required medical documentation for the renewal or adjustment of status.
• Scenario 3 - Partner recognition and residency: A registered partner (where applicable) seeks family reunification after a long term relationship. A Rechtsanwalt can advise on the applicable legal grounds and ensure the partnership is properly documented for the permit application.
• Scenario 4 - Change of job and move within Austria: A spouse moves from Feldbach to a nearby town but wishes to keep the family permit intact. A lawyer can assess whether the move affects residence rights and manage any changes with authorities.
• Scenario 5 - Application delays and requests for information: The immigration office requests additional documentation or questions the relationship status. A qualified legal counsel can respond promptly, prepare supplementary documents, and protect the applicant's timeline.

3. Local Laws Overview

The dependent visa framework in Feldbach rests on federal laws that apply uniformly across Austria. The following statutes are central to family reunification and residence permissions in Feldbach and throughout Styria:

• Niederlassungs- und Aufenthaltsgesetz (NAG) - the core law governing settlement and temporary residence for family members and other prospective residents. This statute sets eligibility, documentation rules, and procedural steps for family reunification.
• Fremdenpolizeigesetz (FPG) / Fremdenrecht - the set of rules governing entry, stay, and conditions for foreigners, including how family members may accompany or join a resident in Austria.
• Ausländerbeschäftigungsgesetz (AuslBG) - regulates work rights for foreigners and spouses joining a resident, including when dependent family members can seek employment and any work permit requirements.

Recent changes and practical notes - Austrian authorities regularly update administrative procedures, forms, and processing guidelines. For the exact current text and amendments, consult the official legal information system (RIS) and government portals. These updates affect documentation requirements, translation standards, and processing workflows that impact Feldbach applicants.

According to the Austrian Federal Ministry of the Interior, family reunification rules are implemented through federal law and administered by regional offices with standardized documentation requirements.

Source: Austrian Federal Ministry of the Interior (BMI) -

The Rechtsinformationssystem des Bundes (RIS) provides the current consolidated versions of NAG, FPG, and AuslBG, including amendments and official notes.

Source: RIS -

4. Frequently Asked Questions

What is a dependent visa in Feldbach, Austria?

A dependent visa is a residence permit for family members who wish to join a person legally residing in Austria for work, study, or settlement purposes.

How do I start a Familiennachzug application in Austria?

Begin by confirming eligibility with the relevant Austrian authority in Styria and collecting documents proving the family relationship, housing, and health insurance. A lawyer can help prepare the application package.

Do I need to hire a lawyer for this process?

No mandatory requirement, but a Rechtsanwalt can reduce risk of errors, handle translations, and respond to requests for information efficiently.

How long does the process take in Styria?

Processing times vary by case and nationality. Typical timelines range from 3 to 6 months, with possible extensions for additional information requests.

What documents prove a family relationship?

Certified copies of marriage certificates, birth certificates, and, if needed, legal proof of custody or adoption, all translated and legalized as required by Austrian authorities.

Is health insurance required for dependents?

Yes, proof of health insurance valid in Austria is typically required for the application to cover potential medical costs.

How much are government fees for a residence permit?

Government fees apply and vary by permit type. A lawyer can provide a precise estimate based on the specific family situation and the permit category.

Do I need translation of documents?

Most documents must be translated by a sworn translator and often apostilled or legalized, depending on the issuing country.

Can dependents work while a visa is pending?

Work permissions depend on the exact permit type and national rules. Often, dependents need separate work authorizations or a specific visa category.

What’s the difference between a family permit and a settlement permit?

A family permit covers residence for family members joining a resident, while a settlement permit typically grants a longer term or more stable status based on residency and other criteria.

Where do I submit the application in Feldbach?

Applications are typically submitted to the local immigration authority in the Styrian region, often via the Bezirkshauptmannschaft or Magistrat responsible for Feldbach and surrounding districts.

Do I qualify if my spouse is an Austrian citizen?

Spouses of Austrian citizens generally have strong grounds for family reunification, but the exact requirements depend on housing, insurance, and proof of relationship.

5. Additional Resources

• Austrian Federal Ministry of the Interior (BMI) - official information on immigration, family reunification, and residence permits.
• Rechtsinformationssystem des Bundes (RIS) - official legal texts, including NAG, FPG, and AuslBG with current versions and amendments.
• Help.gv.at - Austrian government information portal with step by step guidance on residency and visa processes.

6. Next Steps

1. Define your goal - determine if you are applying for a spouse, partner, or child dependent visa and note your target timeline. Do this within 2 weeks of starting the inquiry.
2. Collect essential documents - assemble proof of relationship, identity documents, proof of housing, and health insurance. Expect translations and apostilles where required. Complete within 2-4 weeks.
3. Consult a Feldbach immigration lawyer - schedule an initial consultation with a Rechtsanwalt who specializes in Austrian immigration to assess eligibility and risks. Allow 1-2 weeks for scheduling.
4. Draft and review the application - have the lawyer prepare or check the application, cover letter, and supporting documents. Allocate 1-3 weeks for drafting and revisions.
5. Submit the application - file with the appropriate local authority in Styria and ensure all forms are complete. Plan for 1-2 days to submit, plus any required biometrics appointment.
6. Monitor and respond to requests - track the case status and promptly provide any additional documents requested by authorities. Expect possible follow up within weeks to months depending on the office.