HowtoObtainGermanCitizenship—EinbürgerungGuide2026

Does Germany allow dual citizenship after the 2024 reform?

Yes — the June 2024 reform broadly permits multiple citizenship for most applicants. Previously, dual citizenship was only allowed in narrow exceptions (EU citizens, cases of hardship, §12 StAG). Now, applicants from nearly all countries can retain their original nationality when naturalising as German.

What German language level is required for citizenship?

B1 on the CEFR scale — demonstrated by a recognised certificate: Goethe-Institut B1, telc Deutsch B1, ÖSD B1, or DELE B1. Graduates of a German school are automatically exempt. Those who attended German school but cannot produce the certificate may need to retest. B2 or C1 certificates naturally satisfy the requirement.

Can I get German citizenship if I receive social benefits?

Generally no — §10 StAG requires that you support yourself and your family without state benefits (Bürgergeld / Hartz IV). However, there is an exception if you are receiving benefits through no fault of your own (e.g. involuntary job loss, disability). The Einbürgerungsbehörde assesses individual circumstances.

How long does the German naturalisation process take in 2026?

Realistically 12–24 months in most German cities due to backlogs at the Einbürgerungsbehörde following the 2024 reform surge in applications. Some cities (Berlin, Munich) have multi-year waits. Cities with lower application volumes (smaller Länder) can be 9–12 months. There is no legal deadline for the authority to decide.

Can children born in Germany to foreign parents get citizenship?

Children born in Germany to foreign parents automatically receive German citizenship if at least one parent has been a legal permanent resident for at least 5 years at the time of birth (§4(3) StAG — jus soli). This was tightened under the 2024 reform to require permanent residence status specifically, not just 5-year residence.

What is the Einbürgerungstest and how do I prepare?

The Einbürgerungstest (naturalisation test) consists of 33 multiple-choice questions about German law, history, society, and democratic values. You must answer at least 17 correctly to pass. The test is administered by the BAMF (Bundesamt für Migration und Flüchtlinge) at approved test centres. Preparation materials (Fragenkatalog with 310 questions from which the 33 are drawn) are freely available at bamf.de. Graduates of German schools and applicants over 65 with 12+ years of residence are exempt.

Does Germany allow citizenship for the second generation born abroad?

Children born abroad to German parents automatically acquire German citizenship at birth (Section 4(1) StAG) regardless of the country of birth. However, for the third generation born abroad, citizenship is not automatic — it must be applied for before age 5. This was the Section 4(4) StAG generation cutoff rule, which was partially relaxed in the 2024 reform to allow some diaspora members to maintain citizenship across generations with sufficient connection to Germany.

What is the Einbürgerungsbehörde and where do I apply?

The Einbürgerungsbehörde (naturalisation authority) is part of the local Ausländerbehörde or Landratsamt, depending on the Bundesland. In major cities: Berlin Landesamt für Einwanderung, Munich Kreisverwaltungsreferat, Frankfurt Ausländerbehörde. Application is submitted in person with the full documentation package. The authority has significant discretion in assessing borderline cases — professional preparation of the application is strongly recommended.

What documents do I need for German naturalisation?

Required documents for Einbürgerung typically include: valid passport, Meldebescheinigung (residence registration), B1 language certificate, Einbürgerungstest certificate, last 3 years of tax assessments or employment contracts (financial self-sufficiency), clean Führungszeugnis (police record), birth certificate (apostilled/translated), and marriage or divorce certificates if applicable. Additional documents may be required depending on the Bundesland. We prepare the complete documentation package for clients.

Can I apply for German citizenship if I have been on Bürgergeld?

Generally no — Section 10(1) Nr.3 StAG requires applicants to support themselves and their family without current receipt of Bürgergeld (formerly Hartz IV). However, there is an explicit exception if you received benefits through no fault of your own (unverschuldet), such as involuntary unemployment, illness, or disability. The Einbürgerungsbehörde assesses individual circumstances. Having not received benefits for at least 12 months before application significantly strengthens your case.