A step-by-step guide to applying for German citizenship

Foreign residents who want to become German citizens must complete a formal application process that includes a citizenship test, document verification and approval from local authorities. The process can take more than a year and ends with the issue of a citizenship certificate.

Where to apply

Applications for German citizenship are handled by the local nationality authority, known as the Staatsangehörigkeitsbehörde.

Applicants should contact the office in their area to obtain application forms, document requirements and fee details. Those who are unsure where to apply can also approach their local city administration office, district administration office, borough office or foreigners authority.

Citizenship test required

Most applicants aged between 16 and 67 must pass Germany's citizenship test.

The test checks knowledge of German society, history, laws and values. It is conducted at authorised centres run by the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF).

Candidates who pass receive a certificate, which must be submitted along with the citizenship application.

Application process

Once all required documents are ready, applicants can submit their citizenship application either online or in person, depending on the local authority.

Officials then review the application and check whether the applicant meets the required conditions, including the minimum period of residence in Germany.

Fees and Processing Time

The application fee is €255 for adults and €55 for children under 18.

The decision process can take at least 18 months, during which authorities verify residency records and other supporting documents.

What happens after approval?

Applicants whose requests are approved are invited to attend a naturalisation ceremony.

At the ceremony, they receive a citizenship certificate, which officially confirms that they are German citizens.

Applying for a German passport

After receiving the citizenship certificate, new citizens can apply for a German passport through their local citizens' office (Bürgeramt).

For foreign residents, becoming a German citizen involves contacting the local nationality authority, passing a citizenship test, submitting an application, paying the required fees and waiting for approval. Once the citizenship certificate is issued, applicants can apply for a German passport.