German Citizenship by Birth

In Germany, citizenship by birth is primarily determined by the principle of “jus sanguinis,” which means “right of blood.” This means that German citizenship is typically acquired through one’s parents rather than by being born within the territory of Germany. However, there are certain circumstances where a person can acquire German citizenship by birth within the country. Here are the main scenarios:

• At least one parent is a German citizen: If at least one of your parents is a German citizen at the time of your birth, you automatically acquire German citizenship
• Unknown parents: If a child is found in Germany and the parents are unknown or cannot be identified, the child is considered to be of indeterminate nationality. In this case, the child may be granted German citizenship
• Stateless children: If a child is born in Germany to parents who are both stateless or of unknown nationality, the child may acquire German citizenship

Updates on German Citizenship by Birth

A regulation that permits people born in Germany to foreign parents to get German citizenship was enacted in the year 2000. The term “birthright citizenship” or “citizenship by birth in Germany” (Geburtsortsprinzip) refers to this clause. The following conditions must be met in order to be granted German citizenship by birth in Germany:

At least one parent has had a valid residence permit or permanent resident status for at least eight years prior to the child’s birth in Germany.

The child has lived in Germany legally from birth for at least eight years.

At birth, the child did not inherit the citizenship of its foreign parent(s).

The child may submit an application for German citizenship before turning 23 if these requirements are completed. Both the local immigration office and the appropriate citizenship authority (Einbürgerungsbehörde) must receive the application.