Naturalization
Would you like to obtain German citizenship? We will check whether you meet the requirements and guide you through the entire naturalization process.
Who can be naturalized?
Naturalization is usually possible if you have been living in Germany for several years and can support yourself.
Prerequisites
- Residence in Germany As a rule, at least 5 years of legal residence
- Secure livelihood You should not be entitled to social benefits (basic security/citizen’s allowance)
- German language skills Language certificate B1
- Naturalization test Proof of knowledge of the legal and social order
- Exemption from punishment No relevant previous convictions (fines of up to 90 daily rates generally harmless)
- Clarified identity, e.g. by passport
- Declaration of loyalty (extremist and anti-Semitic acts exclude naturalization)
Multiple citizenship is now possible in principle. German nationals therefore no longer require a retention permit if they take on another nationality.
Special cases
- Spouse of German nationals: naturalization possible after 3 years of legal residence in Germany and 2 years of marriage duration
- Co-naturalization of children: Children can be jointly naturalized under certain conditions
- Special integration: Since October 2025, it is no longer possible to shorten the naturalization period to 3 years in the case of outstanding integration, even if you have already submitted the application before.
Typical problems in practice
- Documents are incomplete
- Periods of stay are not counted correctly
- Problems with proof of livelihood
- Delays at the authority
Errors in the application can lead to delays or, in the worst case, rejection.
How long does the procedure take?
The duration of a naturalization procedure varies greatly and depends heavily on the responsible authority. Processing times of 1-2 years are no exception.
What does legal representation in the naturalization process cost?
According to the German Lawyers’ Fees Act (RVG, as of June 2025), the lawyer’s fees depend on how many people in a family file a joint application:
| Legal fees legal fee incl. VAT | |
| 1 person | 1,187.62 € |
| 2 persons | 1,580.82 € |
| 3 persons | 1.832,00 € |
| 4 persons | 2.139,03 € |
The authority charges an additional fee of €255 for adult applicants and €51 for minor children.
What we do for you
- Checking your naturalization requirements
- Strategic preparation of the application
- Support in compiling the documents
- Sending the documents to the authority on your behalf
- Communication with the naturalization authority
- If necessary, filing of an action for failure to act
Have your case examined individually. We will tell you clearly what options are available and how best to proceed.
