Dual Citizenship: Which Form Do I Need?
First things first: There is no specific form in Germany for applying for dual citizenship. If you wish to acquire German citizenship while retaining your current citizenship, you should submit a standard application for naturalization.
Since the reform of the nationality law in 2024, dual citizenship or multiple citizenship has generally been permitted in Germany. This means that, under German law, individuals who are naturalized are no longer required to renounce their previous citizenship.
Whether you can actually keep your original passport under the German law on the retention of foreign passports (Naturalization ) in Germany also depends on the laws of your country of origin. For example, some countries of origin do not allow dual citizenship, or allow it only in exceptional cases. In that case, while you might be able to keep both passports under German law, you would not be able to do so under the laws of your country of origin.
Apply for Dual Citizenship: Download the Form
Since there is no separate form for dual citizenship, you will need to use the standard application form available at Naturalization. You can obtain the appropriate naturalization form from your local naturalization office.
The application process may vary depending on where you live. Some agencies provide the form as a PDF for download, while others distribute it in person or allow you to submit an application digitally through an online portal.
If your local agency does not provide its own application form, you can download our free forms here.
Important: An application for naturalization is generally not tied to a specific form. Therefore, you are not required to use the form provided by your local authority. In practice, however, it is recommended that you use the form provided, as it includes all the information the authority needs to process your application.
Fill Out and Submit the Form – Here's How the Process Works
If you wish to apply for dual citizenship, the process is the same as for regular citizenship Naturalization.
The process usually goes like this:
- Check the requirements: First, check whether you meet all the requirements for the " Naturalization ." You can use our free test, for example, to do this.
- Gather documents and supporting evidence: Collect all documents that prove you meet the requirements. Important: Documents in a foreign language must be submitted with a certified German translation.
- Fill out the form: Please fill out the naturalization form as completely as possible and provide all the necessary information about yourself, your residence, and your living circumstances.
- Apply for naturalization: Submit the completed application along with all required documents to the appropriate naturalization authority.
- If necessary, file a complaint with the Lawsuit for failure of act : If the agency fails to make a decision on your application without sufficient cause, you may file a Lawsuit for failure of act .
- Decision by the Agency: After the agency has reviewed your documents, it will make a decision regarding your Naturalization.
- Receiving Your Naturalization Certificate: Upon receipt of your naturalization certificate, you officially acquire German citizenship.
You'll need these documents
The documents you need for the “ Naturalization ” depend on your personal situation. As a general rule, however, the naturalization authority requires proof of:
- Your Identity and Nationality
- Your residency status in Germany
- Your financial situation
- Your knowledge of German
- Your knowledge of the legal and social system in Germany
- Your Health and Pension Insurance
Depending on the specific case, the authorities may require additional documentation. You can find a detailed overview of all the documents required for the “ Naturalization ” in our checklist.
Is it always possible to retain one's previous citizenship?
Germany has allowed dual citizenship since June 27, 2024. Under German law, you are not required to renounce your original citizenship if you wish to become a naturalized citizen of Germany.
Whether you can actually obtain dual citizenship, however, also depends on the laws of your country of origin. Many countries allow multiple citizenships without restrictions. Others tie dual citizenship to certain requirements or stipulate that one’s previous citizenship is automatically forfeited upon acquiring another (such as German citizenship).
Therefore, before the Naturalization , find out what rules apply in your home country.
What form do I need to apply for dual citizenship?
There is no specific form for applying for dual citizenship in Germany. Instead, you submit a standard application for naturalization.
Where can I download the form for dual citizenship?
You can obtain the naturalization form from your local naturalization office. Many agencies make the application available for download as a PDF or offer the option to submit it digitally through an online portal.
Do I still need to apply separately for dual citizenship under the Naturalization ?
No. Dual citizenship is granted automatically when you become a naturalized citizen of Germany and are not required to renounce your original citizenship under the laws of your country of origin. No additional application is required.
Do you have to renounce your previous citizenship with the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees ( Naturalization ) in Germany?
Under German law, if you obtain citizenship by naturalization ( Naturalization ), you may retain your original nationality. However, whether dual citizenship is actually possible always depends on the laws of your country of origin.
