Naturalization requirements for nationals of another Member State

Here you will find information on naturalization requirements for nationals of another EU member state

Requirements for the naturalisation of citizens of another member state

There is still Section 10 paragraph 1 of the Nationality Act (StAG) one Right to naturalization, if the following Prerequisites are met:

• lawful and habitual residence in Germany for eight years
• permanent or long-term residence status at the time of naturalization
• verified identity and nationality
• commitment to the free democratic basic order of the Basic Law
• German language skills at level B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages
• Proof of knowledge of the legal and social system and the living conditions in Germany (naturalization test)
• independent securing of livelihood for oneself and one's dependents entitled to maintenance 
• Ensuring integration into German living conditions
• no conviction of a criminal offense

The Naturalization fee is 255 EUR; for children who are naturalized together with their parents: 51 EUR.

After successful participation in a Integration course Does it shorten Length of stay to 7 years. If there are special integration achievements, a reduction of the period of residence to 6 years is possible, for example by demonstrating German language proficiency at the B2 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages or higher, as well as by demonstrating particularly good academic, vocational, or professional achievements, or civic engagement.

Naturalization applicants from an EU member state do not have to give up their EU citizenship.

The application must be submitted to the authority responsible for the applicant's place of residence Naturalization authority to ask.

In the case of habitual residence outside the Federal Republic of Germany, naturalization is only possible in exceptional cases if there are ties to Germany that justify naturalization. It is at the discretion of the competent authority and requires that a public (governmental) interest in the naturalization can be established in the individual case in accordance with Section 14 of the Nationality Act (StAG).

Competent authority for a Expatriate naturalization is this Federal Office of Administration. Applications generally must be submitted through the German diplomatic mission abroad.

This is decisive Nationality Act as currently in force.

More Information on naturalization can be found on the website of the Federal Ministry of the Interior and Community.

Nationality Act as currently in force.