Naturalization in Germany is tied to statutory requirements. The most common route is what is known as naturalization as of right under § 10 of the Nationality Act (StAG). This overview summarizes the general statutory requirements — for orientation, not as an individual case assessment. Whether these requirements are met in a specific case is determined solely by the competent naturalization authority.
The requirements under § 10 StAG
For naturalization as of right, the law essentially names the following requirements:
- Residence: five years of lawful and habitual residence in Germany (§ 10 Abs. 1 Satz 1 StAG). Since the reform of 27 June 2024, this shortened period of five years applies instead of the previous eight.
- Right of residence: a residence title existing at the time of naturalization, or an equivalent right of residence.
- Secured livelihood: the livelihood for oneself and dependent family members must be secured without ongoing benefits under SGB II (Bürgergeld) or SGB XII (social assistance).
- Language skills: sufficient knowledge of German, generally at level B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference.
- Naturalization test: knowledge of the legal and social order as well as of living conditions in Germany, usually demonstrated by passing the naturalization test.
- Commitment: a commitment to the free democratic basic order as well as — since the 2024 reform — to Germany's special historical responsibility for the National Socialist regime of injustice, in particular the protection of Jewish life.
- Clarified identity and nationality.
- No relevant criminal record: as a rule, no relevant prior convictions. § 12a StAG provides a threshold for minor offenses; certain offenses, however, lead to exclusion.
Shortened period for marriage to a German national
A separate route is the naturalization of spouses under § 9 StAG. Here the required residence period is shortened to three years, provided that additionally the marriage or registered civil partnership with a German national has existed for at least two years. Both must be present together.
Multiple nationality is the standard case
Since 27 June 2024, giving up one's previous nationality is generally no longer required. The former obligation to do so has been removed; multiple nationality has thus become the standard case.
Who assesses the requirements
The points named here reflect the legal situation in general terms. Whoever meets them has, in principle, a legal entitlement to naturalization. Whether the requirements are actually met in a specific case is decided solely by the competent nationality authority.
Further topics
There are more in-depth articles on the individual requirements in the Help Center — for example on § 10 (naturalization as of right), on § 9 (spouses), on dual citizenship since the 2024 reform, on the naturalization test, and on the B1 language certificate.
Classification: This article reflects the general legal situation. Whether the requirements named apply in your case is determined solely by the competent naturalization authority. For a non-binding initial assessment, use the eligibility check; for legal questions about your case, please contact a law firm.