What is the declaration of loyalty in the Naturalization?
The declaration of loyalty is an integral part of the naturalization process in Germany. By making this declaration, you confirm that you recognize the values and fundamental principles of the Federal Republic of Germany.
Specifically, this means that you are committed to the values of the free and democratic basic order enshrined in the Basic Law. These include, among other things:
- respect for human dignity
- free and democratic elections
- the separation of powers
- the rule of law
- equality of all people before the law
By signing the declaration of loyalty, you also confirm that you respect the Constitution and do not support any efforts directed against the democratic order.
Another key element of the declaration of loyalty is the commitment to Germany’s historical responsibility. This includes, in particular, acknowledging the crimes of National Socialism, as well as working to protect Jewish lives and promote peaceful coexistence among people.
Is the declaration of loyalty Naturalization for Naturalization ?
Yes – the declaration of loyalty is a mandatory requirement for Naturalization Germany. Anyone wishing to obtain German citizenship must sign the declaration of loyalty.
The legal basis for this is found in Section 10(1), first sentence, item 1 of the Nationality Act (StAG). Without this declaration, Naturalization is Naturalization not possible.
In practice, the declaration of loyalty is usually Foreigners' office during an appointment at the relevant Foreigners' office . Many government agencies also provide an information sheet on loyalty to the constitution. This sheet explains the most important fundamental values of the Basic Law. Applicants are often required to sign this information sheet as well. It is then added to the naturalization documents.
Declaration of Loyalty Naturalization Text and Content Explained Simply
Many people want Naturalization , before Naturalization , what the text of the declaration of loyalty says and exactly what they are signing. The exact wording may vary slightly depending on the state and the agency, but the content remains the same.
The declaration is not a complicated legal text that you have to memorize. What matters is that you understand the core values underlying the declaration and that you are committed to those values.
Declaration of Loyalty: You must acknowledge these core values
By signing the Declaration of Loyalty, you affirm your commitment to the core values of the German Basic Law. These values form the foundation of the free democratic basic order and shape political and social life in Germany.
The most important basic principles include:
Democracy and Free Elections:
In Germany, all state power emanates from the people. Citizens elect their political representatives in free, equal, and secret elections. This determines who forms the government and makes political decisions.
Rule of Law:
The state is bound by law. Government agencies and courts may not act arbitrarily but must adhere to applicable laws. Every person has the right to challenge government decisions through legal channels.
Separation of powers:
State power is divided into three branches: the legislative branch (Bundestag, Bundesrat, state parliaments), the executive branch (government, administrative bodies, agencies), and the judicial branch (courts). This separation is intended to prevent too much power from being concentrated in a single institution.
Judicial independence:
Judges make decisions independently and are bound only by the law. Political influence on judicial decisions is not permitted.
Parliamentary Opposition:
In addition to the government, parliaments also include opposition parties and members of parliament. They criticize the government, ask questions, and put forward alternative policy proposals. This ensures that political decisions are discussed publicly.
Protection of Human Dignity:
Human dignity is the foremost principle of the Basic Law. Every person must be treated with respect, regardless of origin, religion, gender, or political opinion.
Equality:
All people are equal before the law. Men and women have the same rights. Discrimination based on origin, religion, sexual orientation, or other personal characteristics is prohibited.
Protection of minorities:
Even smaller groups in society have special rights and must be protected. Democracy does not mean only majority rule, but also the protection of minorities.
Rejection of Violence and Extremism:
Political goals must not be achieved through violence or activities that undermine the constitution. Extremist ideologies that reject the democratic order are incompatible with the Basic Law.
Germany's historical responsibility – what does that mean?
In addition to committing to fundamental democratic values, applicants must also acknowledge Germany’s historical responsibility. This point was further emphasized by the 2024 reform of the nationality law.
The reason for this lies in German history, particularly in the period of Nazi oppression. This history gives rise to a special obligation on the part of the German state and its citizens, to which those seeking naturalization must also commit.
These principles include:
- Responsibility for Nazi crimes:
Germany acknowledges the historical crimes of National Socialism and is committed to ensuring that such crimes are never repeated. - Protecting Jewish Life:
The protection of Jewish people and Jewish culture holds special significance in Germany. Anti-Semitism is firmly rejected. - Peaceful Coexistence of Peoples:
Germany is committed to peace, international cooperation, and the respectful coexistence of different nations and cultures. - Prohibition of a War of Aggression:
Under the Basic Law, Germany is prohibited from waging a war of aggression. The preservation of peace is a central principle of the German Constitution.
By signing this declaration of loyalty, you confirm that you acknowledge and respect these historical lessons.
Additional documents (Information sheet on loyalty to the Constitution)
In some cases, it is necessary to sign an additional declaration of loyalty to the constitution. This document contains information about the free and democratic basic order and the obligation to respect it.
Typical examples include:
- Explanations of the Fundamental Values of the Constitution
- Guidelines on Rejecting Extremist or Anti-Constitutional Activities
- Confirmation that you have read and understood the content.
Here's how the loyalty declaration works
The exact procedure may vary Foreigners' office depending on the state or Foreigners' office . In many cases, however, the declaration of loyalty follows a similar pattern.
- Scheduling an appointment: During the naturalization process, you will be invited to an appointment with the relevant authority.
- Identity verification: At the start of the appointment, the authorities will verify your identity. To do so, you must present a valid passport or another form of identification.
- Declaration of Loyalty: The agency’s staff will briefly explain the contents of the declaration of loyalty or provide you with the relevant form or information sheet.
- Signing the Declaration: You will then sign the Declaration of Loyalty. By signing, you confirm that you have read and understood the contents and that you are committed to the fundamental values of the Constitution.
- Documentation: The signed declaration will then be added to your naturalization documents and included in your file.
What questions does the agency ask regarding the declaration of loyalty?
Depending on the agency, staff members may also ask you a few additional questions. These questions usually pertain to the content of the declaration of loyalty. The agency does this to ensure that you have understood the fundamental values and laws.
Important to know: There is no set list of questions that is Naturalization during every Naturalization . The questions asked depend on the individual case. Some authorities ask only a few brief questions, while others conduct a somewhat more detailed interview.
Here are a few sample questions:
- What do you understand by the term "free democratic basic order"?
- What does the separation of powers mean, and what are the three branches of government?
- Why is judicial independence important?
- What does freedom of speech mean, and where are its limits?
- What does the rule of law mean to you?
- What is the main role of the opposition in a democracy?
- What does the phrase “Human dignity is inviolable” mean?
- What is your view on gender equality?
- What rights do minorities have in Germany?
- How do you view anti-Semitic acts or statements?
- What do you know about the Nazi regime?
- What does Germany's historical responsibility toward Jewish life entail?
- Do you recognize Israel's right to exist?
- Do you support or promote efforts that are directed against the free democratic basic order?
- How do you view the use of violence to achieve political goals?
- Are you prepared to respect the Constitution and the laws of the Federal Republic of Germany and to refrain from any action that could harm it?
Here's how you can prepare for the loyalty declaration
It is important that you not only read the contents of the loyalty declaration but also be able to explain them in simple terms. To prepare, it may therefore be helpful to
- to review the core values of the Constitution once again,
- to read the information sheet on loyalty to the Constitution carefully,
- to address any questions the authorities may have and to be able to explain the key points in your own words at
.
It is also important that you do not simply memorize phrases. What really matters is that you truly understand the meaning of the free democratic basic order. During the interview, the authorities may assess whether you are familiar with these values.
Difficulties with Naturalization?
Frequently Asked Questions (and Answers) About the Declaration of Loyalty for Naturalization
The declaration of loyalty is an important part of the naturalization process. Many immigrants therefore want to know exactly what this declaration entails and how it works in practice.
Here you will find answers to frequently asked questions about the declaration of loyalty for Naturalization
The declaration of loyalty is a formal statement made as part of the naturalization process. Through this declaration, applicants confirm that they recognize and respect the free democratic basic order. They also declare that they do not support any efforts directed against Germany’s democratic order.
Yes. The declaration of loyalty is a legal requirement for Naturalization. This is based on Section 10(1), first sentence, item 1 of the Nationality Act (StAG). Naturalization cannot take place without a commitment to the free democratic basic order.
You will sign the declaration of loyalty during an appointment at the Foreigners' office. The declaration will then be included with your naturalization documents. Some authorities may also ask you a few questions to verify that you have understood the content of the declaration.
There is no set list of questions. Common topics include:
- the importance of the free and democratic basic order
- Separation of Powers and the Rule of Law
- Freedom of Speech and Fundamental Rights
- Equality between men and women
- Protection of minorities
- Germany's historical responsibility and rejection of anti-Semitism
These questions are intended to demonstrate that you understand the fundamental values of the Constitution.
If you do not sign the declaration of loyalty, Naturalization cannot take place. Commitment to the Constitution is a key requirement for acquiring German citizenship.
Since the 2024 reform of the citizenship law, greater emphasis has been placed on the fact that anti-Semitic, racist, or inhumane acts are incompatible with the Basic Law. In addition, applicants for naturalization must acknowledge Germany’s historical responsibility for the Nazi regime’s injustices.
