Acquiring German citizenship is an important, often life-changing step. It opens up new rights — from voting to freedom of travel within the EU — and provides secure residence status. But anyone considering German citizenship faces a crucial question: How long does naturalization take after submitting the application?
The short answer: expect at least 18 months for most applicants, though processing times vary considerably by federal state and city.
At Schlun & Elseven, we have been guiding international clients through German immigration law for over ten years, making us one of Germany’s most experienced immigration law firms. Our English-speaking team offers full-service legal support — and with our digital-first approach, we work with clients wherever they are in the world. From initial document review and timely application submission to direct communication with naturalization authorities, we are with you at every stage of the process.
The Legal Basis for Naturalization in Germany
Naturalization is governed by the Nationality Act (Staatsangehörigkeitsgesetz, StAG). Section 10 sets out the key requirements for eligibility — particularly a minimum five-year residence period, a secure livelihood, sufficient German language skills, successful completion of the naturalization test, and a clear commitment to Germany’s free democratic principles.
Important: the accelerated naturalization route introduced in 2024, which allowed applications after just three years for exceptional integration achievements, has been abolished as of October 2025. A minimum of five years of lawful residence is once again required.
Simplified Naturalization
Certain groups benefit from the eased requirements under Section 9(1) of the StAG. Spouses and registered civil partners of German citizens may, under specific conditions, apply for naturalization after just three years of lawful residence in Germany. Minor children of spouses or registered partners of German citizens may also be eligible for joint naturalization, even if they cannot yet demonstrate the required standard residence period themselves. The specific conditions are set out in the relevant provisions of the Nationality Act.
Naturalization in Germany: Procedure and Application
Applicants submit their own applications using forms available from local naturalization authorities or online. Depending on your federal state and municipality, the responsible office may be:
- City or district administration (citizens’ office, foreigners’ office, or public order office)
- State immigration office (for example, in Berlin)
- County office (in rural districts)
Application fees are €255 for adults and €51 for minor children naturalizing alongside their parents.
Processing Times: What to Expect
Processing duration varies significantly across Germany and depends on several factors, including the authority’s workload, case complexity, involvement of other agencies, and the completeness of submitted documents. Based on general experience and guidance from the authority, applicants should expect a processing time of at least 18 months. Times can vary considerably by city and federal state, and individual cases may take significantly longer.
Why Do Naturalization Procedures Take So Long?
Several factors cause significant delays:
- Document issues: Missing evidence or unclear documentation requires the authority to request additional materials, extending processing time.
- International verification: Confirmation from countries of origin regarding identity or consular matters often takes considerable time.
- Security checks: Standard queries to police and constitutional protection authorities are part of the routine process and add processing time.
- Increased applications: Application numbers have risen sharply, pushing many authorities to their capacity limits.
Untätigkeitsklage: Legal Remedy for Administrative Inaction
If authorities remain unresponsive for an extended period, you should seek legal advice early. Together with an immigration lawyer, you can assess the appropriate next steps. In the meantime, it is advisable to continue contacting the relevant authority and to document all attempts carefully.
Where inaction persists, it is possible to file an action for failure to act (Untätigkeitsklage) — a formal legal claim compelling the authority to process your application. This remedy is generally only available after three months from the date of application submission; exceptions apply only in cases involving urgent special circumstances.
Before filing, verify that your application was submitted in full. Incomplete submissions can delay the process and weaken the prospects of a successful claim.
Factors That Accelerate Naturalization
Submitting a complete, carefully prepared application gives the authority everything it needs to proceed without delay. Required documents typically include:
- Proof of identity (e.g., passport copy or, where required, a certified birth certificate)
- German language proficiency certificate (B1 level)
- Naturalization test pass certificate
- Valid residence permit and proof of length of residence
- Proof of financial means (e.g., payslips, employment contracts)
- Registration certificate or tenancy agreement
- Certificate of good conduct or criminal records check (if required)
Beyond submitting complete documentation, maintaining regular contact with the relevant authority, and using online application options where available can help move the process along. An immigration lawyer can keep track of deadlines, avoid formal errors, maintain a clear overview of all required documents, and — where necessary — apply pressure on the authority to act.
Schlun & Elseven: Legal Support for Naturalization in Germany
As a full-service law firm with extensive expertise in German immigration and residence law, Schlun & Elseven provides comprehensive naturalization support — from thorough document review and complete application preparation to direct communication with the naturalization authorities. Our lawyers keep a close eye on authority processing timelines and apply targeted pressure where significant delays arise. Where appropriate, we also initiate legal steps to accelerate proceedings, including assessing the prospects of an action for failure to act.
