German Citizenship 2026
Since 30 October 2025, everyone needs a minimum of 5 years of residence in Germany. Fast-track naturalization abolished. Dual citizenship stays allowed.
Key Takeaways
- 5 years of residence is the new universal minimum, with no shortcuts for C1 German or volunteer work.
- Dual citizenship has been legal since June 2024 and that did not change in the 2025 reform.
- The fee is still 255 EUR for adults and 51 EUR for children naturalized together with a parent.
- New: a 10-year blocking period if someone provides false information in the application.
5 Years
for everyone
Minimum residence since 30 Oct 2025
Dual
Citizenship
No renunciation required
Sixth StAG
Fast-track abolished
3-year rule removed
What changed on 30 October 2025?
On 8 October 2025 the Bundestag passed the Sixth Act amending the Nationality Act in a recorded vote with 450 yes votes against 134. The law came into force on 30 October 2025.
- The three-year fast track for outstanding integration is gone. No more shortening via C1 German or volunteer work.
- The five-year rule from the 2024 reform stays in place — now the standard waiting period for everyone.
- New: a 10-year blocking period for anyone who deceives or provides false information in the application.
Requirements for Naturalization
5 years (everyone)
B1 Level
33 questions, 17 correct
Self-sufficient
A special rule for the guest worker generation (pre-1974 arrivals) stays in place: spoken German is enough and the written naturalization test is waived.
How Naturalization Works
Gather Documents
Passport, residence permit, B1 language certificate, naturalization test certificate, proof of income, rental contract, registration certificate
Submit Application
At the citizenship office responsible for your address
Processing Time
Realistically 6-24 months depending on state and city. Larger cities are currently slower.
Citizenship Certificate
After approval you receive the certificate and can apply for a German passport. If rejected, you have one month to file an objection.
What if your application is rejected?
Lawyer and court costs together can run into several thousand euros. Legal protection insurance covering administrative law takes those costs over, provided it was in place before the dispute.
EU Blue Card 2026
The EU Blue Card is a residence permit for highly qualified workers from non-EU countries. It can lead to a permanent residence permit after 27 months, or 21 months with B2 German. It is a stepping stone toward later naturalization.
- Permanent residence after 27 months (with B1) or 21 months (with B2)
- Family reunification immediately possible
- EU mobility after 12 months
Annual minimum salary thresholds (standard, shortage and recent-graduate occupations) are set by the Federal Ministry of the Interior. Please check the current values directly on the BMI page.
Important: Check Your Original Citizenship
Although Germany allows dual citizenship, your country of origin may have different rules. Some countries automatically revoke citizenship when you naturalize abroad. Check with your embassy first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still apply for German citizenship after 3 years?
No. The three-year rule for special integration achievements was removed by the Sixth StAG Amendment on 30 October 2025. There is no longer any shortening through C1 German, volunteer work, or outstanding professional achievements. Everyone needs at least 5 years of lawful residence.
Is dual citizenship allowed in 2026?
Yes. Multiple citizenship has been generally allowed since June 2024 and the Sixth StAG Amendment did not change this. You do not have to give up your previous citizenship.
What requirements must I meet?
Beyond the five-year residence: permanent residence permit, self-supporting livelihood (no SGB II/XII benefits), German language at B1 level, passed naturalization test (17 of 33 questions correct), no serious criminal convictions, and commitment to the free democratic basic order.
What happens if my application is rejected?
You have one month to file a formal objection. If the authority maintains the rejection, you can take the case to the administrative court. Lawyer and court costs together can run into several thousand euros. Legal protection insurance taken out before the dispute can cover them.
How much does German naturalization cost in 2026?
The fee is 255 EUR per adult aged 16+ and 51 EUR per minor naturalized together with a parent (§ 38 StAG). Additional costs: B1 language certificate 150-250 EUR, naturalization test ~25 EUR, certified translations depending on documents.
Sources and Further Reading
- BMI: Sixth Act amending the Nationality Act
- Federal Government: Naturalisation Reform
- Bundestag: Recorded Vote 962 (8 Oct 2025)
- BAMF: Naturalization
This page is editorial and does not replace legal advice. The Nationality Act (StAG) and the information of your local citizenship office are decisive.