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Naturalization Length of stay: How does Naturalization work after 3, 6, 7 or 8 years?

Update: Attention: The new Naturalization Act comes into force on 27 June 2024!!!

From June 27, 2024, important things will change at Naturalization. The Federal Government's new Naturalization Act will then come into force. Important requirements according to Section 10 StAG will then change for you as an applicant.

The changes in the new law have three particularly important points:

  1. Dual citizenship is permitted: From June 27, 2024, you will no longer have to renounce the citizenship of your home country in order to be naturalized. The exceptions according to § 12 StAG will also no longer be necessary. Dual citizenship is enshrined in law!
  2. The Naturalization after 5 years: The new law reduces the requirement for legal residence in Germany from 8 years to 5 years. From June 27, 2024, you can apply for Naturalization in Germany after 5 years of legal residence!
  3. The Naturalization after 3 years: With special integration achievements: With special integration achievements such as a C1 language certificate and academic achievements, professional achievements and voluntary work, you can be naturalized after 3 years. Previously, this was only possible after 6 years.

Naturalization Duration of stay: This video is about Naturalization after 3, 6, 7 or 8 years. The different types of Naturalization have different requirements. In order to reach Naturalization earlier than after 8 years, you must fulfill certain conditions. 

In principle, you can be naturalized in Germany and receive German citizenship if you have lived in Germany legally for at least 8 years and have a right of residence for the entire period. This is stipulated in § 10 StAG.

Legal residence means that you have a temporary or permanent right of residence and have not been in a Tolerance permit for more than 8 years. Tolerated status is not included in the duration of residence.

For the Naturalization after 7, 6 or 3 years there are clear requirements. In addition to these requirements, you must already meet all other requirements. The Naturalization works faster because you can present certain conditions earlier or apply for Naturalization earlier under certain conditions if you meet all the basic requirements for Naturalization .

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