Apply for a Certificate of Citizenship
Documentary proof of German citizenship, issued by the Federal Office of Administration.
How to proceed
- 1
Submit an application to your local municipality
The municipality forwards the application to the Federal Office of Administration.
- 2
Document review
The Federal Office of Administration reviews the birth certificates and, if necessary, determines citizenship.
- 3
Issuance of a Certificate of Citizenship
Delivery by mail through the municipality of residence.
Required documents
- Birth certificates (your own and your parents')MandatoryOften forgotten
To prove lineage.
Responsible authority
The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →
Fees
Varies by case
Processing time
approx. 2 months
Official: max. approx. 3 months
Online application
In person or by post
Common mistakes
- • Birth certificates for the parents or grandparents are missing
- • Application submitted directly to the Federal Administrative Office rather than through the municipality
Common reasons for rejection
- • Citizenship cannot be verified
- • Documents incomplete
You can usually file an objection against a rejection.
The essentials before applying
Who is eligible?
German citizens who need to provide documentary proof of their citizenship (e.g., for government agencies abroad).
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. 2 months
Success rate
approx. 90.0 % (estimate)
Most common mistakes
- •Birth certificates for the parents or grandparents are missing
- •Application submitted directly to the Federal Administrative Office rather than through the municipality
Common reasons for rejection
- •Citizenship cannot be verified
- •Documents incomplete
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.