Naturalization certificate:
What is it?
The naturalization certificate is the official proof of the conferral of German citizenship. Only when it is issued is Naturalization considered complete, whereby all rights and obligations of German citizenship become effective.
This document is issued by the relevant naturalization authority and contains the date of Naturalization as well as personal details. It is valid for life and should therefore be kept in a safe place.
Who needs a naturalization certificate?
Every person who receives German citizenship through Naturalization receives a naturalization certificate. Without this document, Naturalization is not legally binding. The certificate is presented at the official naturalization ceremony or, in certain cases, can be collected from the competent authority.
It serves as proof for government offices, banks and employers and is a basic requirement for applying for a German passport or identity card.
Applying for a naturalization certificate: procedure and requirements
The naturalization certificate is the final step in the Naturalization process. The application for Naturalization itself is a formal process that must be carefully prepared. The naturalization authorities are responsible for issuing the naturalization certificate. To avoid delays, all required documents should be submitted on time.
Below you can find out where you can obtain the certificate, what documents are required and what fees you will have to pay.
Where and how can I apply for a naturalization certificate?
You receive the naturalization certificate when you are granted German citizenship. This can be obtained from the relevant naturalization authority, which may vary depending on where you live.
You can download the application ...
- in person,
- by post or
- online.
Applicants should inform themselves in advance about the respective requirements and possibilities of the responsible body in order to avoid unnecessary delays.
Which documents are required?
After applying for Naturalization , you will receive the naturalization certificate. Various documents are required for Naturalization . These usually include ...
- a valid identity card or national passport,
- proof that you have passed the naturalization test and
- a birth certificate.
Depending on the individual situation, further proof may be required. It is advisable to find out about the specific requirements from the relevant authority in advance. Download our comprehensive checklist, in which you can clearly read all the requirements and documents for Naturalization .
Costs and processing time
The issue of a naturalization certificate means successful Naturalization. The Naturalization itself usually costs €255 for adults and €51 for children who are also naturalized. The issuing of the naturalization certificate is included in these costs.
The processing time can vary and can take anywhere from 6 months to several years. Early application helps to avoid delays.
Pick up your naturalization certificate: Important information
In most cases, the naturalization certificate can only be collected in person. A valid passport or ID card and the Residence permit must be presented to prove your identity. In some cases, you must also bring a biometric passport photo and, if it has not yet been paid, pay the fee for Naturalization .
However, some authorities allow an authorized person to accept the document on your behalf. In this case, a written power of attorney and a copy of the applicant's ID must be presented. It is advisable to check the exact requirements of the competent authority before the collection date.
Lost naturalization certificate - What to do?
If you have lost your naturalization certificate, this can be problematic as it serves as official proof of German citizenship. In such cases, you need to act quickly to apply for a copy. This is done via the authority that issued your naturalization certificate. Below you can find out how to report the loss, what documents are required and what costs you may incur.
Please note: Other authorities are not authorized to issue you with a copy. Therefore, take good care of your naturalization certificate and keep it safe!"
Loss report
The theft of the naturalization certificate should be reported to the police. As a rule, a written report of loss is required. If you have only lost the naturalization certificate, this is not necessary.
In addition, applicants must present a valid identity card or passport. Some authorities also require an affidavit of loss. After checking the documents, a copy of the certificate can be issued.
In principle, however, this certificate is only issued once and you will not receive a replacement, only a certified copy.
Costs and duration of a reissue
There is no replacement certificate. The naturalization certificate is only issued once and you can only receive a certified copy as a replacement in the event of loss, theft or similar. Issuing such a certified copy costs €51 at the Federal Office of Administration, for example.
Depending on the authority, the processing time can take several weeks, especially if additional checks are required. It is advisable to submit the application early to avoid delays.
The authorities archive their processes after some time and then destroy them. It therefore makes sense to make a copy of your naturalization certificate immediately after receiving it. This can be notarized if the original is lost.
What to do if there are problems with the naturalization certificate?
If your Naturalization is rejected, you will be informed of the reason directly. As a rule, you will be notified in good time and invited to a hearing before the rejection. Within a specified period of time - usually 14 days - you can submit the necessary evidence.
After the rejection, you can lodge an objection or appeal within one month. In complex cases, legal advice can help you to clarify further steps.
Conclusion: The naturalization certificate as the last step to citizenship
The naturalization certificate is an indispensable document for anyone who acquires German citizenship. When you receive this certificate, the process is complete and you are finally a German citizen. If unexpected problems arise, it is worth seeking professional advice. Migrando provides you with expert support to make the process efficient and successful.
FAQ - Frequently asked questions about the naturalization certificate
Why is the identity card not proof of citizenship?
The identity card is considered credible proof of German citizenship. According to Section 3 (2) sentence 2 of the StAG, a person is treated as a German citizen if they have been issued with an identity card. This is because the issue of an identity card presupposes the existence of German citizenship.
Can you get married without a naturalization certificate?
Yes, you can get married without a naturalization certificate. However, you will need valid proof of your citizenship, such as an identity card or passport. In certain cases, the registry office may request additional documents to establish your identity and nationality beyond doubt.
Can you travel with a naturalization certificate?
No, you cannot travel with a naturalization certificate. It only serves as proof of your German citizenship. To travel, you will need a valid passport or identity card, which you can apply for at the relevant authority once you have received your naturalization certificate.
Which sentence do you have to say during Naturalization ?
As part of the Naturalization process, you must declare your commitment to the free democratic basic order of the Basic Law of the Federal Republic of Germany. This commitment is part of the declaration of loyalty for Naturalization. It reads as follows: "I solemnly declare that I will respect the Basic Law and the laws of the Federal Republic of Germany and will refrain from doing anything that could harm it."
Who do I have to inform when I am naturalized?
After Naturalization , you should inform the relevant authorities and institutions about your new status. This includes health insurance companies, your employer, banks and, if applicable, educational institutions. This will ensure that your personal data is up to date and that you can exercise all rights and obligations as a German citizen.
What is the difference between Naturalization and citizenship?
Naturalization is the process by which a person acquires German citizenship. Citizenship itself refers to the legal affiliation of a person to a state. Through Naturalization , a person acquires German citizenship with all the associated rights and obligations.
