Initial Steps: Consultation at the Relevant Immigration Authority

If you've decided to become a German citizen, your first step is to check with the relevant authority to see if you meet the naturalization requirements and to find out which documents you need.

Don't delay—schedule an appointment as soon as possible! For example, the Foreigners' Registration Office in the city of Karlsruhe often has long waiting times, so you might need to wait several weeks or months for an appointment.

During a brief consultation, the specific steps for your case will be explained, and you will usually receive a list of the documents required to complete your naturalization application.