Can you become a German citizen after just 5 years in Germany? Yes! A new law has introduced naturalization after 5 years. In special cases, naturalization can even take place after 3 years. The new Naturalization Act also brings further improvements, in particular the introduction of dual citizenship as standard.
In the following, we explain the most important changes to naturalization after 5 years and explain the general requirements and the documents required for the application. We also show the conditions under which accelerated naturalization is possible after 3 years.
Naturalization after 5 years - Important information
Previously, the minimum period of residence for naturalization in Germany was 8 years. However, with the entry into force of the Act on the Modernization of Citizenship Law (StARModG) on June 27, 2024 this period was extended to 5 years reduced.
Another key innovation concerns dual citizenship. From now on, all persons who receive German citizenship can retain their original citizenship - provided their country of origin also allows this.
You can find more details on the changes to nationality law in our blog article.
Requirements for naturalization
In addition to the minimum residence period of 5 years, further requirements must be met:
- Possession of a permanent or certain temporary right of residence (e.g. EU Blue Card, settlement permit, residence permit for skilled workers according to § 18a or § 18b AufenthG)
- Ability to independent means of subsistence without state aid
- None Criminal record
- Proof of sufficient knowledge of German (Level B1)
- Existence of the Naturalization tests on the German legal and social order
Use our free naturalization checkto obtain an initial assessment.
Documents required for the naturalization application
If you meet the requirements, you will need the following documents:
- Passport and Birth certificate
- Current residence permit
- Evidence of the financial independence
- Language certificates and confirmation of passed Naturalization test
- Employer certificates, Rental agreement and other relevant forms
You can find a detailed list of all documents on our main page on naturalization.
Advantages of naturalization after 5 years
Naturalization is worth the effort because it brings many advantages:
- Lifelong right of residence in Germany without extensions
- Freedom of movement in the EU and easy access to visas for many countries
- Diplomatic protection by the Federal Republic of Germany
- Family reunification & co-naturalizationRelatives can be naturalized together
