Who benefits from Naturalization without a naturalization test?
The exemption from the naturalization test is a relief for many who have already integrated themselves into German society through their education (studies or training) or life circumstances. Let's take a look at who can take advantage of this benefit.
Exemption from the naturalization test due to school education
Anyone with a German school-leaving certificate can often qualify directly for Naturalization without having to take an additional test. This regulation rewards the knowledge of the country and its people that has already been imparted as part of school education.
A qualification from a German Hauptschule and comparable or higher qualifications from a German general school are recognized. It is important that political education subjects were taught, for example politics and social studies. These subjects must have been completed with a grade of at least 4.
The same applies to persons who have completed relevant vocational training in Germany. The decisive factor is that legal topics such as the structure of the legal system in the Federal Republic of Germany were covered in the training. An example of such training is the generalized training to become a nursing specialist.
Exemption from the naturalization test by studying
Anyone who has successfully completed a course of study in law, social, social, administrative or political sciences at a German university demonstrates sufficient knowledge of the German legal and social order and does not require additional proof in the form of a naturalization test. An example of this is a law degree.
This exemption from the naturalization test for students recognizes the depth and breadth of education, which already includes a thorough examination of relevant topics.
Exemption from the naturalization test due to age or state of health
- Persons under the age of 16: Minors are automatically exempt from the naturalization test. However, they must be able to prove their knowledge with school certificates for the Naturalization .
- Senior citizens over 60: If a foreigner is over 60 years old and has already lived in Germany for 12 years, basic language skills are sufficient. However, to avoid having to take a naturalization test, a recognized reason for hardship must be present and proven.
- State of health: If the naturalization test cannot be taken due to illness, this must be documented with appropriate evidence (e.g. medical certificates).
- Permanent impairments: In the case of a disability, this can lead to an exemption from the naturalization test. This must also be documented with appropriate evidence.
Exemption from the naturalization test for guest workers and contract workers
Special regulations apply to former guest workers and contract workers from the GDR. According to the current Naturalization Act, which came into force on 27 June 2024, guest workers no longer have to take a naturalization test in recognition of their achievements in Germany. A language certificate for B1 is also not necessary; simple knowledge at language level A1 is sufficient in this case.
Documents required for Naturalization without a naturalization test
- Birth certificate or other proof of age.
- Medical certificates: confirmation of illnesses or disabilities.
- Proof of lifetime achievement: documentation of employment relationships and length of stay.
- Proof of education: documents relating to school education, training or studies.
Naturalization without a naturalization test?
We support you with the Naturalization without a naturalization test
- Advice on the requirements and conditions for Naturalization in accordance with the current Naturalization Act of 27 June 2024.
- Information on your options for Naturalization without a naturalization test.
- Help with applications and document management.
- Handling the entire application process - from opening the file to processing, including submitting a fully substantiated application, to receiving the naturalization certificate and German passport.
- Solving problems with the naturalization authority.
Do you still have questions about Naturalization without a naturalization test?
FAQ - Frequently asked questions about Naturalization without a naturalization test
Persons with a German school-leaving certificate, relevant vocational training or a university degree in fields such as law or administrative sciences are exempt. Exemptions are also possible for senior citizens over the age of 60 or people with health impairments. Children and young people under the age of 16 are also exempt from the naturalization test.
To obtain German citizenship, you must fulfill the following requirements, among others:
- Duration of stay of 3 or 5 years in Germany
- Proof of your language skills
- Proof of your identity
- signed declaration of loyalty
This Blog explains in detail whether you have to take a naturalization test and what other requirements you need to meet.
If you do not fall under the exceptions and have to take a naturalization test, you have many ways to prepare for it. At Migrando you can try out a naturalization test online and find out everything you need to know about the naturalization test in our detailed Blog.
