The B1 language certificate is the standard language requirement for naturalization in Germany — but it is not a requirement for every applicant. German law recognizes several categories of people for whom either a simplified language demonstration or no formal language test at all is required. These include people who completed part of their [...]
Germany has reformed its Military Service Law (Wehrpflichtgesetz – WPflG), which came into effect 1 January 2026. Recent media reports revealed a clause that had received little public attention thus far: German men between the ages of 17 and 45 require military approval if they want to leave Germany for extended stays abroad. Understandably, this [...]
For many foreign nationals residing in Germany, naturalization represents the culmination of years of building a life in the country. When a prior criminal conviction — even a relatively minor one resulting in a fine — threatens to derail that process, it can be both frustrating and deeply unsettling. At Schlun & Elseven, our citizenship [...]
For holders of a German residence permit who attempt to return to Germany after a lengthy stay abroad, an unpleasant surprise may await: re-entry may be refused. The reason? In many cases, the residence permit has simply lapsed — automatically, and without the holder ever realizing it. The legal basis for this is Section [...]
In the naturalization process, the hearing (known in German administrative law as the Anhörung) is regularly a key procedural step. It gives applicants one final opportunity to present their perspective on the facts before a decision is reached, and to clear up any misunderstandings. In some cases, the authorities will have specific concerns that [...]
The recent decision by prominent figures, such as American actor George Clooney and his wife, Amal, to acquire French citizenship highlights a phenomenon of growing significance in today's political landscape: the deliberate diversification of citizenship in response to domestic political developments. While the Clooneys chose France, Germany is also emerging as an attractive destination [...]
In early December 2025, Ohio Senator Bernie Moreno introduced a proposed bill called the "Exclusive Citizenship Act of 2025” sparking international headlines and understandable questions from dual citizens. Senator Moreno's bill proposes eliminating dual citizenship in the United States, requiring current dual citizens to choose one nationality within a one-year period. It is an attention-grabbing [...]