Germany Citizenship by Marriage

German citizenship by marriage is a possible avenue for individuals married to German citizens to acquire German citizenship. However, it does not occur automatically upon marriage.

Eligibility

To be eligible for German citizenship through marriage, you generally need to meet the following requirements:

  • You must be married to a German citizen
  • You must have been married for a certain period of time, typically at least two years
  • You must have been living in Germany on a valid residence permit for a specific period, usually at least three years
  • You must demonstrate sufficient knowledge of the German language (usually at the B1 level) and have a basic understanding of German society, legal system, and living conditions

The Process

  1. Residence Requirements: Meeting the residence requirements is crucial. You need to have legally resided in Germany for the specified duration with a valid residence permit. Time spent on certain types of permits, such as student visas or work visas, may be counted toward the residence requirement.
  2. Application Process: The application for German citizenship by marriage is typically made through the local immigration office (Ausländerbehörde) or citizenship authority (Einbürgerungsbehörde). You will need to submit various documents, such as your marriage certificate, proof of language proficiency, evidence of residence, and other supporting documents. It’s important to carefully follow the requirements and provide all the necessary information.
  3. Naturalization Process: If your application is approved, you may be invited for an interview and may have to pass a citizenship test on German language and society. Upon successful completion, you can receive German citizenship by naturalization.
  4. Exceptions and Special Cases: In some circumstances, such as if you have strong connections to Germany, have exceptional integration, or face particular hardship if you were to leave Germany, you may be eligible for an accelerated naturalization process.

FAQ

Can I automatically become a German citizen by marrying a German citizen?

No, marriage to a German citizen does not automatically grant you German citizenship. However, it can be a pathway to obtaining German citizenship through the process of naturalization.

How long must I have been married to a German citizen before I may submit a citizenship application?

You generally need to be married to a German citizen for at least three years before you can apply for German citizenship. This period can be reduced to two years if you have successfully completed an integration course or if you have been living in Germany for three years with a valid residence permit.

Do I need to live in Germany to apply for German citizenship by marriage?

Yes, you generally need to fulfill residence requirements. This typically involves having lived in Germany with a valid residence permit for a specific period, usually at least three years. Some exemptions or shorter residence periods may apply in certain circumstances, such as having completed an integration course or possessing a higher level of German language proficiency.

Do I need to demonstrate knowledge of the German language for citizenship by marriage?

Yes, proficiency in the German language is a requirement for German citizenship by marriage. You will need to provide proof of your language skills by passing a recognized German language test or by completing a German language integration course.

Can I retain my original citizenship when I become a German citizen through marriage?

Germany generally allows dual citizenship, which means you can retain your original citizenship while also becoming a German citizen. However, the laws regarding dual citizenship may vary depending on your country of origin.

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