There are six tax classes (Steuerklassen) in Germany:

• Tax Class 1: You are single, widowed, separated/divorced
• Tax Class 2: You are a single parent, living separately
• Tax Class 3: You are married (or widowed within the first year of the spouse’s death) with a significantly higher income than your partner in tax class 5
• Tax Class 4: You are married with both spouses earning similar income
• Tax Class 5: You are married with a significantly lower income than your partner in tax class 3
• Tax Class 6: The tax class for second and side jobs (regardless of marital status)

The combination of tax class 3 and 5 is only possible for married couples if both spouses live in Germany. If your spouse is still in your home country waiting for their visa, you will be placed in tax class 1 and you will need to apply for a tax class change once your spouse is also registered in Germany.

Credit: Content by Anshul Srivastava
DISCLAIMER: The information provided here is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional tax, legal, or financial advice. I am not a licensed tax consultant under German law. For tailored advice specific to your situation, please contact a certified Steuerberater or tax advisor.