Citizenship / Naturalization in Germany

One documented route of this kind in Germany, with its conditions, documents, official government fees and process.

Naturalisation (§10 StAG — reformed law in force 27 June 2024)

Acquisition of German citizenship by naturalisation; dual citizenship is now generally permitted with no renunciation required.

Processing time: Not centrally fixed; varies widely by Einburgerungsbehorde (months to over a year). Many authorities require a pre-application advice session.
Validity: Permanent (citizenship).
Language requirement: B1 German. There is no C1 requirement and no 3-year fast-track route. The Bundestag abolished the 3-year accelerated naturalisation path on 8 October 2025. The standard requirement is 5 years of lawful residence and B1 German proficiency.
Permanent residence: 5 years of lawful ordinary residence required. The former 3-year fast-track (which required C1 German) was repealed by Bundestag vote on 8 October 2025 and no longer exists. Special integration achievements can reduce the requirement to 3 years under the June 2024 StARModG reform for certain cases, but this does not carry a C1 language requirement.
Citizenship: Standard 5 years of lawful residence; fast-track 3 years with C1 German and outstanding integration achievements.

Application form
Passport/ID and settlement or permanent residence title
B1 German certificate (C1 for the 3-year fast track)
Pass the naturalisation / 'Life in Germany' test (33 questions, pass = 17 correct)
Proof of self-sufficiency without public funds
Declaration of commitment to the free democratic constitutional order
Biographical/residence documents

1

Check eligibility

Confirm you meet the residence period and other requirements.
2

Book advice session

Book an advice session with the local naturalisation authority.
3

Pass tests

Pass the B1 language and Life-in-Germany tests.
4

Submit application

Submit the application, documents and fee.
5

Receive certificate

Receive the naturalisation certificate.