Apply for naturalization
Acquisition of German citizenship through naturalization in accordance with the requirements of the Nationality Act.
How to proceed
- 1
Check the requirements
Length of stay, language proficiency, living expenses, criminal record.
- 2
Take the naturalization test
33 questions on politics, society, and law; 17 correct answers required.
- 3
Submit an application to the naturalization office
With a passport, residence permit, language certificate, and proof of income.
- 4
Receive a certificate of naturalization
Once approval has been granted, the certificate will be presented in a ceremony.
Required documents
- PassportMandatory
- Certificate of Completion of the Naturalization TestMandatoryOften forgotten
- Language Certificate B1MandatoryOften forgotten
- Proof of incomeMandatoryOften forgotten
Responsible authority
The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →
Fees
Varies by case
Processing time
approx. 9 months
Official: max. approx. 12 months
Online application
Online possible – at the responsible authority
Common mistakes
- • Has not yet taken the naturalization test
- • Gaps in the resume/proof of residence
- • Identity verification is incomplete when passport documents are missing
Common reasons for rejection
- • Livelihood not guaranteed without a basic income
- • Language proficiency (usually B1) not demonstrated
- • Criminality
You can usually file an objection against a rejection.
The essentials before applying
Who is eligible?
Individuals who have generally resided legally in the country for at least 5 years (or 3 years in cases of exceptional integration), have a secure source of income, sufficient knowledge of German, and have passed the naturalization test.
Income limit
The limit varies by household and region – see the table at the responsible authority or in the application assistant.
Processing time
Nationwide: approx. approx. 9 months
Success rate
approx. 92.0 % (estimate)
Most common mistakes
- •Has not yet taken the naturalization test
- •Gaps in the resume/proof of residence
- •Identity verification is incomplete when passport documents are missing
Common reasons for rejection
- •Livelihood not guaranteed without a basic income
- •Language proficiency (usually B1) not demonstrated
- •Criminality
Alternatives
- Check related services in the application assistant
- Use social counselling before applying
If rejected
File a written objection within 30 days – with reasons why the decision is wrong and any missing evidence.
Questions & Answers
Is multiple citizenship permitted?▼
Since the 2024 reform, it has generally been possible to retain one's previous nationality.