Passport & Consular Services

What are the Requirements for German Citizenship by Descent?

The requirements for German citizenship by descent can vary depending on individual circumstances and the specific provisions of the German Nationality Act (Staatsangeh?rigkeitsgesetz). However, here are some general requirements to consider:

German Ancestry: You must have a parent or grandparent who was a German citizen at the time of your birth. This means that your parent or grandparent must have held German citizenship, either by birth or through naturalization, at the time of your birth.

Proof of German Ancestry: You will need to provide evidence of your German ancestry, such as birth certificates, passports, or other relevant documents that establish the German citizenship of your parent or grandparent.

Application Submission: You need to submit a completed application form for German citizenship by descent. This form can typically be obtained from the German embassy, consulate, or the competent German authority responsible for citizenship matters. Make sure to fill out the form accurately and provide all the required information.

Supporting Documents: Along with the application form, you will need to submit supporting documents, including your birth certificate, your parent’s or grandparent’s birth certificate, marriage certificates (if applicable), and any other documents that prove your German ancestry. These documents may need to be certified, translated into German, or authenticated depending on the requirements.

Language and Integration Requirements: In some cases, applicants for German citizenship by descent may need to demonstrate basic language skills and integration into German society. This can involve a language test and an assessment of integration factors.

It’s important to note that the specific requirements and procedures for German citizenship by descent may vary based on individual circumstances and the German authority processing your application. It is recommended to consult with the German embassy, consulate, or the competent German authority responsible for citizenship matters for detailed and up-to-date information on the requirements and application process. They will be able to provide you with accurate guidance based on your individual situation.

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