Naturalization

Under certain conditions, foreigners can apply for German citizenship. As a rule, there is a legal entitlement to naturalization if the following requirements are met:

The applicant

• has been legally resident in Germany for five years,
• has a permanent right of residence or is in possession of a residence permit in accordance with the Residence Act which is not issued for a temporary purpose only,
• is able to support themselves and their dependent family members (ability to support themselves),
• has no criminal record,
• has sufficient knowledge of German,
• has basic civic knowledge,
• is committed to the free democratic basic order (loyalty to the constitution),
• has a clear identity and citizenship and
• acknowledges Germany's special historical responsibility for the unjust National Socialist regime and its consequences, in particular for the protection of Jewish life and for the peaceful coexistence of peoples and the prohibition of waging a war of aggression.

There are special regulations for certain constellations: Family members, people with above-average integration achievements. Information on this can be obtained from the citizenship authorities of the towns and municipalities and, in the case of smaller municipalities, from the district committee of the administrative district. In any case, it is recommended that you seek advice there before submitting an application.

In Hesse, the magistrates and municipal councils in towns and municipalities with 7,500 or more inhabitants are responsible for accepting naturalization applications, otherwise the district committees of the administrative districts, the so-called lower administrative authorities. As soon as the application documents are complete, the lower administrative authority forwards the process electronically to the respective regional council, the naturalization authority.

The standard fee for naturalization is EUR 255.00 and EUR 51.00 for underage children to be naturalized.

Where can I find further information?

On the website of the Hessian Ministry of the Interior, Security and Homeland Security you will find information on the requirements for naturalization, the legal basis and the procedure, including the necessary forms.