What does Naturalization actually mean?
The Naturalization is an important step toward obtaining German citizenship. To receive a German passport, you must meet certain legal requirements and demonstrate successful integration into German society. Once Naturalization , you Naturalization as an equal to German citizens under the law and enjoy the same rights and obligations.
How long does Naturalization take on average after the application?
Processing times for Naturalization applications Naturalization considerably across Germany. There are significant differences even between individual cities. The following chart shows which cities have particularly long waiting times—and where you can expect a decision relatively quickly.
New naturalization law
A new naturalization law has been in effect in Germany since June 27, 2024, introducing several important changes. The aim of the reform was Naturalization it Naturalization qualify for Naturalization and to streamline the process overall.
At the same time, however, the number of applications has risen significantly because more people now meet the eligibility requirements. As a result, many government agencies are overwhelmed, which means that, in practice, processing times have hardly shortened at all.
The most significant change is that you now need to demonstrate only 5 years of continuous residence in Germany, rather than 8, in order Naturalization qualify Naturalization
In addition, dual citizenship has been made possible. This means that you can retain your current nationality while also acquiring German citizenship—provided that your country of origin also allows dual citizenship.
4 factors that extend the Naturalization
There are various factors that influence how long the Naturalization takes after the application and how the processing process works. We have summarized the most important ones for you below:
- Rise in naturalization applications: The new naturalization law has led to a sharp increase in the number of applications. This is particularly true in major cities, where at times 15,000–20,000 people Naturalization for Naturalization .
- Online applications: The introduction of online applications was intended to simplify and shorten the naturalization process. However, it has also led to many applications being submitted that do not meet the requirements.
- Lack of staff: As already mentioned, many naturalization authorities are struggling with too few staff. As a result, the few employees are often overwhelmed by the large number of applications. At the same time, there is often too little time to train new employees properly, which leads to them making more mistakes.
- Special cases: Individual factors such as the country of origin, your legal status and any previous convictions can complicate your Naturalization and influence how long your Naturalization will take in Germany.
4 tips for a faster Naturalization
Many factors are beyond your control. However, there are some things you can influence to help you reach your Naturalization faster.
- Check your documents!
If you forget to submit documents or submit them incorrectly, this often delays the naturalization process considerably. Use our checklist and make sure you observe all deadlines! - Stay in touch with the authorities!
Respond to inquiries from the authorities as quickly as possible, and if there are long wait times, check on the current status of your application. This often helps identify problems early on. - Take advantage of the opportunity to apply online!
With online applications, you can complete your naturalization application from the comfort of your sofa and submit the documents more quickly. - Get help from a lawyer!
A lawyer Immigration law in Immigration law is thoroughly familiar with the procedures and can help you avoid mistakes and streamline the process.
Get help now from the Naturalization
So you never have to wonder again how long the Naturalization will take Naturalization you submit your application, we have the solution: Migrando experienced attorneys Migrando you avoid common delays and, if you wish, handle all communication with the authorities. With our help, you’ll get your Naturalization faster!
FAQ - Frequently asked questions about the duration of the Naturalization
After you have submitted your Naturalization application Naturalization the authorities, it typically takes 12–24 months nationwide to Naturalization notification of your Naturalization . In some cities, such as Leipzig, the wait can be as long as 50 months. Check in with the authorities regularly to avoid further delays.
How long the German Naturalization takes depends on various factors. One of the main reasons for the often very long waiting times is the sharp increase in the number of applications. There is also a severe shortage of staff at the authorities.
In order to speed up the processing of your naturalization procedure, you should check your application once again for correctness and completeness. It can also help to regularly ask the authorities about the status of your application and to use online applications. Last but not least, specialist lawyers can speed up the process Naturalization.
After payment, the Naturalization takes up to 18 months, as the fee is usually paid at the time of application. However, this can vary from city to city, as the time of payment is not the same everywhere.
