Why can't I find an appointment?
At the moment, a lot of people want to have a German passport. There are three reasons for this:
- New law: You can now become a German citizen after just 5 years.
- Dual citizenship: You no longer have to surrender your old passport. This motivates many people.
- Staff shortages: The authorities do not have enough staff to process the large number of applications.
The authorities' websites often say: "No appointments available." That's frustrating. But often you're looking in the wrong place.
Good news: You often don't need an appointment
Many people believe, "I have to go to the authorities and hand in my portfolio." Today, this is often incorrect.
Cities such as Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg are digital. This means:
- You do not need to go to the authorities in person.
- You fill everything out on the computer.
- You upload your documents as PDF files.
This is good for you: you can submit your application at any time, even on weekends or in the evening. You don't have to wait for an available appointment in the calendar.
Instructions for your city
Every city in Germany operates differently. Here are the rules for the largest cities:
Berlin: Everything is now only available online
In Berlin, the State Office for Immigration (LEA) is responsible.
- Dates: There are no more dates for submission. Do not just go there, you will be sent away.
- The process: You must submit your application online on theLEA website("digital application process").
- Costs: You must pay the fee of 255 euros immediately. This can only be done via PayPal or credit card. Without this payment, you cannot submit the application.
- More information: can be found on our Naturalization Berlin page.
Munich: The Bavaria Portal
In Munich, use the BayernPortal.
- Access: You often need a BayernID. This is a user account for public authorities. It is best to use your electronic Residence permit eAT) or an ELSTER certificate for this.
- Waiting time: The authorities in Munich currently take a very long time (up to 18 months).
- More information: can be foundon our Naturalization Munich page.
Frankfurt am Main: Friday's events
It's more difficult in Frankfurt. Paper applications are still common here.
- The trick: New appointments are posted online two weeks in advance for the respective day at 6:00 a.m. Be quick!
- Forms: Often you have to download forms, fill them out on your computer, and sign them.
- More information: Naturalization Frankfurt am Main
Whether online or by mail: if documents are missing, the authorities will reject the application or not process it.
We have provided a checklist of all documents for you to download here.
Please note: Depending on your situation (married, children, self-employed), you may need additional documents.
Support with the naturalization process?
Avoid these 3 mistakes
Many applications fail because of simple mistakes. Do it better:
- Booking the wrong appointment: Do not book an appointment for "visa extension" if you want to become a naturalized citizen. Officials are often not allowed to help you in this case.
- Poor photos/scans: When uploading documents online, they must be clearly legible. A blurry photo taken with a cell phone is often not sufficient. Scan the documents properly.
- Just wait: Don't wait months for an available appointment in the calendar. If you can't do it online, send the application in writing by mail (registered mail). This will secure the date for you.
The fast track: Naturalization Migrando
Don't want to deal with the stress of dealing with authorities? Can't find an appointment? We at Migrando here Migrando .
Why it's faster with us:
- No appointment necessary: we are your lawyers. We will send the application directly to the right place. You do not have to go to the authorities in person to submit the application.
- No mistakes: We check all documents before sending them off. This means fewer queries from the authorities.
- We apply pressure: if the authority does not act within three months, we can Lawsuit for failure of act a Lawsuit for failure of act . This is a legal action in court. The authority must then act more quickly.
FAQ - Frequently asked questions about the Naturalization appointment
No. Appointments with German authorities are always free of charge. Websites that charge money for appointments are often dubious. You pay the Naturalization fee Naturalization 255 euros) directly to the state.
Yes. Children always need their own application, and from the age of 16 they must sign it themselves. It then costs only €51 for children (up to the age of 18).
In many cities, yes. This is often better than waiting. But please note: in Berlin, for example, you must use the online application.
The decision on Naturalization is made by the relevant naturalization authorities. These authorities check that all legal requirements are met and that the documents submitted are complete.
