Citizenship in Germany

As a rule, the prerequisites for acquiring German citizenship are a legal residence in Germany, sufficient knowledge of the German language and of the legal and social order (naturalisation test). You must also prove that you can support yourself and are willing to give up your previous citizenship, unless an exception applies. The application is submitted to the relevant naturalisation authority and is subject to a fee.

In detail:

1. Place of residence

• You live in Germany.

2. Residence period in Germany

• You have been living here for some time:
  • 5 years or
  • 3 years if:
    • You show special achievements (e.g. good grades, professional success or social commitment).
    • You finance your own living.
    • You speak German at C1 level.
  • 3 years if you have been married to a German for 2 years.

3. Identity

• You have a valid passport or ID card. A German travel document is not sufficient.

4. Acceptance of the German Constitution

• You respect the rules in Germany.
• You are against extremism, racism and inhuman behavior.
• You recognize Germany’s special responsibility (e.g. protection of Jewish life, no war of aggression).

5. Residence permit

• You have a valid residence permit, e.g.
  • settlement permit
  • EU Blue Card
  • residence card for EU/EEA citizens

6. Income

• You do not receive any citizen’s income or social assistance, but there are exceptions (e.g. full-time work).

7. No criminal record

• You have not committed any serious crimes.

8. Knowledge of German

• You speak German at least at B1 level.

9. Knowledge about Germany

• You know the rules of coexistence, e.g. through:
  • naturalization test
  • school leaving certificate in Germany
  • vocational training or studies in Germany

10. Equality and family

• You are not married to more than one person at a time.
• You respect gender equality.

Special cases

• Exceptions can be made if you have an illness, disability or other special circumstances.
• For children under 16 years of age, the consent of both parents is required (in the case of joint custody).

Required documents

1. Naturalization application (online).
2. Valid passport or ID card.
3. Proof of income (e.g. employment contract or tax assessment notice).
4. Proof of language skills (e.g. German language certificate at B1 level).
5. Proof of knowledge of German (e.g. naturalization test).
6. Proof of residence (where you live).
7. Other documents, depending on your circumstances (e.g. tenancy agreement, health insurance certificate).

Government fee

• 255 euros per person.
• 51 euros for children under 16 years of age.