Applying for German citizenship can feel confusing—even if you’ve lived here for years and meet the requirements. This guide walks you through what’s needed, how the process works, and where to get support if things become unclear.

Who can apply

Most people apply through naturalization. You’re typically eligible if you:

• Have lived in Germany legally for at least 5 years

• Speak German at B1 level or above

• Can support yourself financially

• Have no serious criminal record

• Pass the naturalization test

  Other pathways apply if you’re the child of a German citizen, married to one, or were once German yourself.

What you need

Documents vary by location, but generally include:

• Passport and residence permit

• Birth certificate

• Proof of income, employment, and address

• Language certificate (B1 or higher)

• Naturalization test certificate

• Health insurance proof

• School or degree certificates (if relevant)

  Foreign documents often need certified translations or legalizations. It’s best to prepare these early.

Where to apply

You apply through your local naturalization office (Einbürgerungsbehörde). Some offices require a pre-check or an initial consultation before you can submit your full application.

There’s a one-time fee:

• €255 for adults

• €51 for children

  
  

How long it takes

The timeline depends on your location and the complexity of your case. On average:

• 4–12 months from submission

• Longer if documents are missing or the office is backlogged

  Some applicants wait over a year without updates. There’s no official tracking system, but regular follow-ups can help.

Common delays

Applications often slow down due to:

• Missing documents

• Gaps in residence history

• Confusion about income or taxes

• Formatting errors or unofficial translations

  These are usually avoidable with clear preparation—or legal guidance if your case is more complex.

  
  

Do you need a lawyer?

Not always. Many people apply on their own. But legal support can help if:

• You’ve had visa issues, lived abroad, or changed statuses

• Your timeline is tight or you need clarity on requirements

• You want someone to check your documents and submit through formal legal channels

  Services like Drift work with immigration lawyers to help applicants manage the process from start to finish—without navigating it alone.

  
  

Before you begin

• Start gathering paperwork early

• Check the requirements in your state or city

• Make digital and physical copies of everything

• Be ready for a long wait—but don’t hesitate to follow up if needed

  German citizenship is a significant step. With the right preparation—and, if needed, the right support—you can move through the process with more confidence and fewer surprises.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Drift is not a law firm. We partner with licensed immigration lawyers in Germany and provide a platform that helps manage and streamline the application process. All legal services are delivered by qualified professionals in accordance with German law.