Naturalization Lawyer – Your Path to German Citizenship
- What is Naturalization?
- Requirements for Naturalization
- Naturalization by Entitlement or Discretion
- Application Procedure – Step by Step
- Naturalization Test and Language Skills
- Naturalization by Marriage to a German Citizen
- Naturalization of Children
- Dual Citizenship and Giving Up Previous Nationality
- Costs of Naturalization
- Common Mistakes and Reasons for Rejection
- Tips for a Successful Application
- My Services as a Naturalization Lawyer
- Contact
What is Naturalization?
Naturalization is the legal process of acquiring German citizenship by application and decision of the authorities, based on the German Nationality Act (Staatsangehörigkeitsgesetz – StAG).
Benefits of German Citizenship:
- German passport
- Right to vote on all levels (local, state, federal, EU)
- EU freedom of movement
- Access to all professions, including public service
- Consular protection abroad
Requirements for Naturalization
The standard requirements for naturalization are:
- At least 5 years of lawful residence in Germany
- Permanent residence permit (e.g. settlement permit)
- Secured livelihood without social welfare (exceptions possible)
- Sufficient German language skills (level B1)
- Passed naturalization test
- Commitment to the democratic constitutional order
- No serious criminal convictions
- Renunciation of previous citizenship (exceptions apply)
Naturalization by Entitlement or Discretion
There are two main forms:
Entitlement Naturalization (§ 10 StAG):
If all legal requirements are met, you have a legal claim.
Discretionary Naturalization (§ 8 StAG):
If some requirements are missing (e.g. shorter residence), the authority may grant naturalization at its discretion.
Application Procedure – Step by Step
- Initial consultation at the naturalization authority
- Submission of application with all documents
- Examination of documents (often several months)
- Requests for additional information if necessary
- Decision of the authority
- Approval by the immigration office
- Release from previous nationality (if required)
- Issuance of the naturalization certificate
Only upon receipt of the certificate do you officially become a German citizen.
Naturalization Test and Language Skills
Naturalization Test:
- 33 multiple-choice questions on politics, history, society
- At least 17 correct answers required
- Exemptions for German school graduates
Language Skills:
- Minimum B1 level (proven by certificate, integration course, or school diploma)
Naturalization by Marriage to a German Citizen
If married or in a registered partnership with a German, the requirements are shorter:
- 3 years of residence in Germany
- 2 years of marriage/partnership
Other conditions remain the same as for standard naturalization.
Naturalization of Children
Children may be naturalized together with their parents if:
- They are under 18
- They live permanently in Germany
- They apply together with the parent
From the age of 16, children must apply independently.
Dual Citizenship and Giving Up Previous Nationality
General Rule: Previous citizenship must be given up.
Exceptions:
- EU citizens
- Countries that do not allow renunciation
- Unreasonable renunciation (e.g. political persecution)
In such cases, dual citizenship is accepted.
Costs of Naturalization
- Application fee: €255 per person
- For minor children without income: €51
- Additional costs may arise for release from previous nationality
Common Mistakes and Reasons for Rejection
- Incomplete documents
- Unclear identity or missing passports
- Pending criminal proceedings
- Reliance on social benefits without exceptions
- Insufficient German language skills
Tips for a Successful Application
- Seek professional legal advice beforehand
- Submit only complete documentation
- Apply early for necessary certificates
- Document your integration efforts
- Clarify dual citizenship issues in advance
My Services as a Naturalization Lawyer
I provide full legal support for:
- Checking eligibility requirements
- Preparing and organizing application documents
- Guidance for the naturalization test
- Clarifying legal questions (dual citizenship, exceptions)
- Filing appeals in case of rejection
Contact – Get Legal Support Now
Naturalization is an important life step. Let me assist you professionally throughout the process.
📞 Phone: +49 172 8974716
✉️ Email: beisel@duckscheer.de
I look forward to guiding you on your way to German citizenship.
