Who the German citizenship If you want to apply for a residence permit, you must submit certain documents. The documents required may vary depending on the federal state or individual situation.
What documents are required for naturalization?
1. Application form
- The completed and signed naturalization form must be submitted to the competent authority.
- Where can I get it? The form is usually available online or directly from the Naturalization Office.
2. valid passport or identity card
- Proof of current citizenship by means of a valid passport or identity card from your home country.
- Example: A person with Turkish citizenship must present their Turkish passport or identity card.
3. proof of residence
- Proof of legal residence in Germany, e.g:
- Residence permit or settlement permit
- Registration certificate of the current residential address
4. birth certificate
- Must be officially notarized and, if necessary, accompanied by a German translation.
- Example: A person born in Morocco must present their Moroccan birth certificate together with a certified German translation.
5. proof of livelihood
- Documents that show that the applicant can finance his/her own living expenses, e.g:
- Employment contract or payslips
- Pension certificate or proof of income for self-employed persons
- Certificate of housing benefit or other benefits (if applicable)
6. proof of sufficient knowledge of German (at least B1)
- Accepted evidence:
- Certificate from a recognized language test (e.g. telc, Goethe, TestDaF)
- German school-leaving certificate or completed vocational training in Germany
7. naturalization test certificate
- Passing the naturalization test is a prerequisite for citizenship.
- Example: A person must answer at least 17 out of 33 questions correctly in order to pass.
8. certificate of good conduct
- A Police clearance certificate must be applied for in order to prove that no serious criminal offenses have been committed.
- Can be applied for directly online or at the registration office.
9. birth certificates of children (if applicable)
- If children are also to be naturalized, their birth certificates must also be submitted.
10. marriage certificate or divorce decree (if applicable)
- Anyone who is married or divorced must present the relevant documents.
11. declaration of consent (for underage applicants)
- If a child is to be naturalized, the written consent of both parents is required.
12. proof of renunciation of previous citizenship (if required)
- In many cases, the old citizenship must be renounced. A certificate of release may be required for this.
- Exception: Citizens of the EU or certain countries may retain their nationality.
