Accessibility Tools

Skip to main content

Language:

German citizenship

German citizenship can be acquired in various ways, either at birth or through naturalisation.

German citizenship at birth

Please note: Your child does not automatically receive German citizenship if born in Germany.

German citizenship is only acquired through birth in Germany under the following conditions:

  • at least one parent has German citizenship
  • at least one parent has already lived for 8 years in Germany and has an indefinite residence permit (e.g. a permanent settlement permit)

German citizenship through naturalisation

After living for several years in Germany, it is possible to apply for German citizenship (naturalisation). The following pre-requisites for naturalisation must be fulfilled:

  • 8 years of residency in Germany (a shorter time is possible if particular efforts have been made toward integration or under exceptional circumstances)
  • a secure source of income to cover the cost of living
  • no criminal record
  • sufficient German skills (B1)
  • a successful citizenship test

The necessary application forms are available from your naturalisation authority (Einbürgerungsbehörde). You can find out what agency that is from the immigration authority (Ausländerbehörde) where you live.

What does naturalisation cost?

Generally, you must pay €255 per person for naturalisation. For each minor child to be naturalised, there is a fee of €51.

If you do not have enough money at your disposal, the costs can be reduced. It is also possible to arrange instalment payments.

What is the citizenship test?

During the citizenship test, you are required to answer 33 questions on various topics. With this test, the state wants to know whether you are familiar with the living conditions and legal and social order in Germany. You have a total of one hour for the test.

The test can only be taken at the designated testing agency .In many places, adult education centres (Volkshochschulen) in particular are tasked by the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) with administering the tests.

How can I prepare for the test?

The Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) provides a free online question catalogue which you can use to prepare for the test. The question catalogue includes questions about life in Germany and your state. When you answer the questions, you will be shown immediately whether your answer was correct or not.

Do I lose my old citizenship if I become naturalised?

Yes, generally you lose your original citizenship if you acquire German citizenship. You can only retain your old citizenship under certain circumstances, for example, if the laws of your home country do not permit the loss of your citizenship. Speak to your naturalisation authority (Einbürgerungsbehörde) if you have any questions.

Topics

Links

Immigration authority

This is where you can find counselling and support

Migration counselling
in your local area

Find migration counselling in your area
using the BAMF – NAvI
Click here for BAMF-NAvI

Migration counselling
online

Free of charge, secure and competent.
Get advice online.
Click here for online counselling
© Migrationsberatung für erwachsene Zugewanderte