Naturalization — German Citizenship

Step-by-step guide to naturalization in Germany. Requirements, documents, procedure and costs.

1. 1
   Check Requirements

   Check whether you meet the basic requirements for naturalization: at least 8 years of lawful residence in Germany, secured income and no criminal record. For spouses of German citizens, the period can be shortened to 6 years.

   💡 The residence period can be shortened to 6 years with exceptional integration achievements (e.g. volunteer work, very good language skills).
2. 2
   Prepare for the Naturalization Test

   Prepare for the naturalization test covering 33 questions on German politics, history and society. You must answer at least 17 questions correctly. Free practice tests are available online from BAMF.

   💡 Use the official BAMF online test center at einbuergerungstest.bund.de — there you will find all 310 possible questions.
3. 3
   Language Proficiency Certificate B1

   Demonstrate German language proficiency at B1 level of the Common European Framework of Reference. Certificates from Goethe-Institut, telc or ÖSD are recognized. A German school certificate or university degree replaces this requirement.

   💡 If you have a German school certificate or German university degree, you do not need a separate language certificate.
4. 4
   Gather Documents

   Gather all required documents: valid passport, residence permit, birth certificate, naturalization test result, B1 certificate, employment contract/income statements, tenancy agreement and where applicable marriage certificate. Foreign documents must be translated and where necessary apostilled.

   💡 Create a checklist and start early — translations and apostilles from your country of origin can take several weeks.
5. 5
   Submit Application

   Submit your naturalization application to the competent Einbürgerungsbehörde (naturalization authority) in your municipality or district. The fee is 255 € per person (51 € for minor children). Submit all documents completely.

   💡 Make an appointment with the naturalization authority in advance — without an appointment you will often not be served.
6. 6
   Take the Naturalization Test

   Take the naturalization test at a Volkshochschule (adult education center) or other authorized examination center. The test costs 25 € and takes 60 minutes. You will receive the result within 4-6 weeks.

   💡 Register early — popular dates fill up quickly, especially in major cities.
7. 7
   Receive Naturalization Certificate

   After your application is approved, you will receive an invitation to the formal presentation of your naturalization certificate. At the ceremony, you will take an oath to the German constitution (Grundgesetz). Processing time is 3-12 months depending on the authority.

   💡 Processing time varies greatly depending on the federal state and city — in major cities it can take much longer.
8. 8
   Apply for ID Card/Passport

   After receiving your naturalization certificate, apply for your German ID card and/or passport at the Bürgeramt (citizens' office). Bring your naturalization certificate, a biometric photo and your previous passport if applicable.

   💡 The ID card costs around 37 € and the passport around 70 € — apply for both at the same time to save trips.