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Українська Information on naturalization: Specific situations and target groups for naturalization
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I am a refugee - naturalization authority requires passport from my home country
Clarification of identity during naturalization Why the authorities ask for a passport A mandatory requirement for any naturalization is that your identity and nationality are clarified. The authorities therefore need to know for sure who you are, what your name is and when and where you were born. The easiest way to provide this proof is in the...
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Naturalization as a stateless person
Entitlement to naturalization at birth in Germany Stateless persons born in Germany are entitled to German citizenship under certain conditions. This entitlement serves to avoid statelessness and is enshrined in special laws. In order to assert this claim, a number of conditions must be met: Requirements for the claim Place of birth The birth must take place in...
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Naturalization as a refugee
Special simplifications for recognized refugees As a recognized refugee, you are given special consideration when it comes to naturalization. The law provides for a number of simplifications to make it easier for you to obtain German citizenship. The principle of benevolence The principle of benevolence applies to recognized refugees. This means that the authorities will examine your naturalization procedure sympathetically and, where possible,...
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Naturalization after a tolerated stay
The basic requirement for naturalization Lawful and habitual residence A central requirement for naturalization is "lawful habitual residence" in Germany. This means that your residence must not only be permanent, but also permitted by law. For naturalization, these two characteristics must have existed simultaneously for the required period of time. What is habitual residence?...
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Naturalization as a student
General requirements As a student, you can also apply for and obtain German citizenship. In principle, the same rules apply as for adults, but there are many important and helpful special features and simplifications that are specially tailored to the situation of young people in education. Application and capacity to act Independently from the age of 16 If you...
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Naturalization as a student
General requirements The basic requirements for naturalization also apply to students. These include that your identity and nationality have been established and that you are legally and habitually resident in Germany. In addition, you must not have been convicted of any serious criminal offenses. Duration of your residence As a rule, legal and habitual residence is required for a naturalization claim.
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Co-naturalization of spouses and children
Naturalization as a family if the main applicant is naturalized If you apply for naturalization and meet the requirements, it is often possible for your spouse or registered partner and your minor children to be naturalized together with you. This facilitates the joint path to German citizenship. Co-naturalization of spouses and civil partners Also...
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German citizenship by birth
German citizenship is the key to many rights in Germany and the European Union. For many people, the path to German citizenship begins directly at birth. The law provides for two main ways of acquiring German citizenship: by descent from a German parent or by birth in Germany under certain conditions. The...