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Citizenship

Guidance on obtaining German citizenship, including naturalization processes and dual citizenship rules.

Sections

1. Types of German Citizenship

Germany offers several pathways to citizenship, depending on an individual’s circumstances. The main routes are:

  1. Citizenship by Birth (Jus Sanguinis and Jus Soli):

    • A child automatically acquires German citizenship if at least one parent is a German citizen at the time of the child’s birth (Jus Sanguinis).
    • A child born in Germany to foreign parents may acquire German citizenship if at least one parent has been legally residing in Germany for at least 8 years and holds permanent residency (Jus Soli).

  2. Naturalization:

    • This is the most common route for immigrants who have lived in Germany for a certain period and meet specific requirements.

  3. Citizenship by Descent:

    • Individuals with German ancestry may be eligible for citizenship if they can prove their lineage, even if they were born abroad.

  4. Reinstatement of Citizenship:

    • This applies to individuals who lost their German citizenship due to Nazi persecution or other historical reasons.

  5. Marriage to a German Citizen:

    • Marriage to a German citizen does not automatically grant citizenship, but it can shorten the residency requirement for naturalization.

2. Eligibility Criteria for Naturalization

To apply for German citizenship through naturalization, applicants must meet the following requirements:

  1. Residency Requirement:

    • Applicants must have legally resided in Germany for at least 8 years.
    • This period can be reduced to 7 years with successful completion of an integration course or 6 years for individuals with exceptional integration (e.g., advanced German language skills or significant community involvement).

  2. Legal Status:

    • Applicants must hold a valid permanent residence permit or a specific type of residence permit that allows for naturalization.

  3. Language Proficiency:

    • Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in the German language at a B1 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

  4. Knowledge of German Society:

    • Applicants must pass a naturalization test that assesses their knowledge of German laws, culture, and society. The test consists of 33 multiple-choice questions, and a score of at least 17 correct answers is required to pass.

  5. Financial Independence:

    • Applicants must be able to support themselves and their dependents without relying on social welfare or unemployment benefits (exceptions may apply for individuals with disabilities or other valid reasons).

  6. Clean Criminal Record:

    • Applicants must not have a serious criminal record. Minor offenses may not disqualify an applicant, but serious crimes can lead to rejection.

  7. Commitment to the German Constitution:

    • Applicants must declare their loyalty to the German Basic Law (Grundgesetz) and renounce any activities that are against the democratic order.

  8. Renunciation of Previous Citizenship:

    • In most cases, Germany requires applicants to renounce their previous citizenship(s) unless dual citizenship is permitted under specific circumstances (e.g., for EU citizens, refugees, or individuals from countries that do not allow renunciation).

3. Dual Citizenship in Germany

Germany has strict rules regarding dual citizenship:

  • EU/Swiss Citizens: Citizens of EU member states and Switzerland can usually retain their original citizenship when naturalizing in Germany.
  • Non-EU Citizens: Non-EU citizens are generally required to renounce their previous citizenship unless renunciation is not possible or would cause significant hardship.
  • Children Born in Germany: Children born to foreign parents in Germany who acquire German citizenship at birth may hold dual citizenship until the age of 21. At that point, they may need to choose one nationality unless they qualify for an exception.

4. Costs of Naturalization

The costs associated with applying for German citizenship are as follows:

  • Application Fee: €255 per adult.
  • Fee for Minor Children: €51 per child (if included in a parent’s application).
  • Naturalization Test Fee: €25.
  • Language Test Fee: Varies depending on the provider (typically €100–€200).

Additional costs may include fees for document translations, notarizations, and obtaining required certificates.

5. Standard Procedure for Naturalization

The process of applying for German citizenship involves several steps:

  1. Gather Required Documents: Applicants must collect and submit the following documents:

    • Valid passport or ID card.
    • Residence permit.
    • Proof of income and financial stability (e.g., pay slips, tax returns).
    • Proof of German language proficiency (e.g., B1 certificate).
    • Certificate of passing the naturalization test.
    • Birth certificate and, if applicable, marriage certificate.
    • Proof of integration (e.g., completion of an integration course).
    • Criminal record clearance (Führungszeugnis).

  2. Submit the Application:

    • Applications are submitted to the local Naturalization Office (Einbürgerungsbehörde) in the applicant’s city or district.
    • The office will review the application and may request additional documents or information.

  3. Attend an Interview:

    • Applicants may be invited for an interview to verify their identity, assess their integration, and confirm their commitment to the German Constitution.

  4. Pass the Naturalization Test:

    • The test can be taken at designated testing centers. Study materials are available online to help applicants prepare.

  5. Decision and Oath of Allegiance:

    • If the application is approved, the applicant will receive a naturalization certificate (Einbürgerungsurkunde) after taking an oath of allegiance to Germany.

  6. Renounce Previous Citizenship (if required):

    • Applicants may need to provide proof of renunciation of their previous citizenship before receiving their naturalization certificate.

6. Important Considerations

  1. Processing Time:

    • The naturalization process can take several months to over a year, depending on the complexity of the case and the workload of the local Naturalization Office.

  2. Document Requirements:

    • All foreign documents must be translated into German by a certified translator and may need to be legalized or apostilled.

  3. Integration Courses:

    • Completing an integration course not only reduces the residency requirement but also helps applicants prepare for the naturalization test and improve their German language skills.

  4. Loss of German Citizenship:

    • German citizenship can be lost if a citizen voluntarily acquires another nationality (except for EU/Swiss citizens or under special circumstances).

  5. Special Cases:

    • Refugees and stateless individuals may have different requirements or exceptions, such as being allowed to retain their original citizenship.

7. Rights and Responsibilities of German Citizens

Once naturalized, individuals gain the following rights:

  • The right to vote in German elections.
  • The ability to run for public office.
  • Access to consular protection from German embassies abroad.
  • Freedom of movement and work within the EU.

They also take on responsibilities, such as:

  • Adhering to German laws and regulations.
  • Paying taxes and contributing to social security.
  • Participating in jury duty if required.

8. Additional Resources

By following the above guidelines and preparing thoroughly, applicants can navigate the process of obtaining German citizenship with confidence.