How to Apply for German Citizenship
You want to know, How can I apply for German citizenship?
In Germany, electronic applications are not allowed—you will need to go to a physical location with all of your documents meeting the current requirements for citizenship. Exactly where you apply in person depends on the country you currently legally reside.
There, you will have your appointment, pay a fee, file an application, and (potentially) take a citizenship test.
If everything is handled correctly, you’ll become a citizen of Germany within about 1-2 years.
Let’s walk through some of the details exactly how to apply for German citizenship.
Before You Start: Identify a Path
The details of the steps below will vary slightly depending on which path to German citizenship you choose. This is why it must be the first step before you begin the process—everything depends on the path you choose and confirming if you qualify.
Find out the best path for you with our very own guide for how to get German citizenship.
Step 1: Confirm If You are Eligible to Apply for German Citizenship
Starting with confirming your eligibility will save you from running into roadblocks later in the process. Always confirm that you actually qualify as the first course of action.
For instance, if you are getting German citizenship by descent, you’ll need one set of documents. But if you are getting German citizenship by marriage, you’ll need a different set of documentation.
Effort you put toward ensuring everything is correct at the beginning of the process will avoid problems and lengthy delays later.
If you are having difficulty determining if you can even apply for German citizenship, consider booking a free call with our experts. We’ll help you confirm if you qualify to apply for German citizenship.
This step can be very challenging, especially with early era documents. If you are having trouble locating official documentation, you will likely need a professional to obtain them in order to apply successfully.
For those looking for how to apply for German citizenship through naturalization (including through residency and marriage), you’ll need to prove proficiency in the German language to the B1 level. You will also need to pass a citizenship test.
Language Test
In certain circumstances, to become a citizen of Germany, you may need to prove proficiency in the language to a B1 level. This will allow you to navigate the culture easily—so it would be a helpful standard to reach even if it wasn’t a requirement.
These can be taken at many schools and other testing centers in Germany, and they conform to Europe-wide standards in language testing (called the Common European Framework of Reference).
Documents that prove your language skills might include:
- Language course certificate of completion
- Diploma for a degree at a German-speaking school
- Successful result for an officially recognized language test
German Citizenship Test
This exam will test your knowledge of German society and law. You must take it at a local branch of the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees. Make sure to register well ahead of time and study.
Step 3: You’re Ready to Apply for German Citizenship
To apply, you will go to the proper authority in your local jurisdiction. Which office you visit depends on where you legally reside.
If you reside in Germany, you’ll go to your region’s Naturalization Office (Einbürgerungsbehörde). This can easily be searched for online.
If you live abroad, you’ll go to the German Embassy or Consulate in your country.
You will need to pay fees for your application: €255 for adults and €55 for minors.
Get Started on Your Application
Are you looking for help with this process? You aren’t alone.
We help people become German citizens, and we can help you, too. Contact us to schedule a free call today.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I apply for German citizenship?
Apply by going to your local Naturalization Office (Einbürgerungsbehörde). There, you can turn in the necessary documents and fill out your application.
Can I apply for German nationality when abroad?
In some cases—especially if you citizenship was revoked because of persecution by the Nazis or through gender discrimination in the law—you can regain German citizenship while abroad. This requires visiting your local German Embassy or Consulate.
Am I able to apply for German citizenship?
Yes, as long as you meet one of the requirements for German citizenship. Learn all the ways you might get German citizenship.
What is the first step to apply for German citizenship?
Start by determining your eligibility. Confirm you meet the requirements for your chosen path, whether it’s citizenship by descent, marriage, or naturalization.
What documents do I need to apply?
Required documents vary by your citizenship path. For naturalization, you’ll need proof of B1-level language proficiency and a citizenship test certificate. Other paths may need different documents. For instance, citizenship by descent will need documentation that your direct ancestor was a German citizen.
How do I prove my language proficiency?
Prove your German language skills at the B1 level through certificates from courses, a diploma from a German-speaking school, or recognized language test results.
What is the German citizenship test?
The test covers German law and society and is taken at a local branch of the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees. Register in advance and study well—this is a crucial element to apply for German citizenship.
What are the fees for the application?
The application fee is €255 for adults and €55 for children.
Can I get help during the application process?
Of course! We offer free consultation phone calls.
This page was last updated with help by Marco Permunian
Do You Qualify?
Want to understand if you qualify for German citizenship? Contact us, we offer a free consultation to help determine your eligibility.
