type: Article
What are the requirements for becoming a naturalized German citizen?
Section 10, para. 1 of the Nationality Act
To be eligible for naturalization, a person has to have lived legally in Germany for at least eight years and possess the appropriate residence permit. Foreigners who have successfully completed an integration course are eligible for naturalization after seven years. Persons wishing to become naturalized citizens must also declare their allegiance to our constitution and have a sufficient command of the German language. Knowledge of German is an essential prerequisite for integration into our society. Candidates for naturalization must be familar with the legal system, society and living conditions in the Federal Republic of Germany (naturalization test) an be able to support themselves without recourse to social assistance, unless this is due to circ*mstances beyond their control; nor can they have committed any serious criminal offences. In addition, they must give up their previous citizenship. In certain cases or for certain groups of persons, however, multiple nationality may be considered.
Special rules apply to persons with special status (displaced foreigners and stateless persons), making it easier for them to become naturalized citizens.
Your local naturalization authority will be able to tell you whether you are eligible for naturalization and how to apply.
What is derivative naturalization?
Section 10, para. 2 of the Nationality Act
Spouses who are not yet eligible for naturalization and minor children may apply for naturalization along with their eligible spouse or parent, which gives families of foreigners the possibility of acquiring German citizenship together.
Apart from the minimum residence requirement, the requirements for derivative naturalization are the same as for naturalization on the basis of legal entitlement.
Are spouses or registered partners of German citizens eligible for early naturalization?
Section 9 of the Nationality Act
Spouses or registered same-sex partners of German citizens are eligible for naturalization after three years of legal residence in Germany. They must have been married or in a registered partnership for at least two years at the time of application. The general requirements for naturalization also apply.
For more information, please contact the naturalization authority responsible for your place of residence.
How well do naturalization applicants have to speak German?
Applicants for naturalization are required to have a sufficient command of the German language: oral and written German language skills equivalent to level B 1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for languages.
The ability to speak German is an absolute necessity. Being able to communicate in German is essential for social and economic integration.
For more information on proof of sufficient command of German, please contact your local naturalization authority.
Can extremist or criminal foreigners become naturalized citizens?
No.First of all, the overwhelming majority of foreigners permanently living in Germany are just as law-abiding as their German counterparts. This is documented by official crime statistics and the information gathered by the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution.
Since 1 January 2000, nationality law contains a clause prohibiting naturalization when there is factual evidence of anti-constitutional, extremist or terrorist activity. Before granting citizenship, the authorities regularly check with the police, security authorities and authorities for the protection of the constitution for such evidence. Further, all applicants over 16 are required to declare their express and binding allegiance to the free and democratic principles of the Basic Law.
What is the fee for naturalization?
The fee for regular or discretionary naturalization is €255. A reduced fee of €51 applies for each dependent minor child naturalized along with a parent.
Fees may be reduced or waived completely in certain cases.
