How to become a German citizen through naturalization [1]
Since January 1, 2000 there is a new naturalization law. Foreigners living in Germany may file an application for naturalization if they
- legally live in Germany at least 8 years
- have a residence permit for 3 years
- declare his/her support for the constitution of the Federal Republic Germany
- pay for their own living without social- or unemployment-support
- have committed no crime
- have a sufficient knowledge of German language
As a rule, the foreign citizenship must be renounced at the naturalization. Multiple citizenship of German citizens is not desirable.
The foreigners’ kids, who are born in Germany
A kid who is born in Germany by foreign parents, is not automatically a Germany citizen. Since January 1, 2000 birth law for kids born by foreign parents in Germany became effective,
- If one of the parents at birth has been living legally in Germany for least 8 years and
- has an extended residence permit for at least 3 years.
Do you find this law good? What is the naturalization law in your country?
Since 2008 an applicant for naturalization must pass a naturalization test. So they have to answer questions on Germany law, culture and history.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[1]. Translated from “Wie wird man Deutsch? Deutsch werden durch Einbürgerung" by me on p. 185. “Stationen” Ein Kursbuch für die Mittelstufe, 3rd Edition, Prisca Augustyn & Nikolaus Euba, Cengage Learning, USA, 2015
