Requirements for naturalisation under § 10 StAG.

• Minimum residence

  Generally 5 years of lawful ordinary residence with a residence permit (§ 10 (1) (1) StAG). The 3-year rule for exceptional integration efforts was abolished effective 29 October 2025.

• Residence permit

  Settlement permit, EU long-term residence, fixed-term residence permit with prospect of renewal, or freedom-of-movement entitlement (EU/EEA/Switzerland).

• Living expenses

  Ability to cover your own living expenses without Bürgergeld (citizens' income) or social welfare. Exceptions for students, trainees, retirees and single parents with children under 14.

• Language skills

  German skills at a minimum of B1 CEFR (telc, Goethe, ÖSD, DTZ or equivalent). German school-leaving qualifications or a degree taught in German are also recognised.

• Citizenship test

  33 questions, of which 17 must be answered correctly. The test is taken at an adult education centre (Volkshochschule) and costs €25. Exceptions: German school qualifications, legal or political-science studies.

• Declaration of loyalty

  Declaration of commitment to the free democratic basic order of the Basic Law (§ 10 (1) (1) StAG).

• No criminal record

  No convictions for intentional offences above the de minimis threshold. Minor fines may be tolerated — individual assessment by the authority.

• Multiple citizenship

  Since 27 June 2024, multiple citizenship is generally permitted. Giving up your previous citizenship is no longer a requirement.

This list does not replace legal advice. The final assessment is made by the responsible citizenship authority based on your file.